It has been argued for some time that to improve language learning in Britain we need to start earlier, as many other European countries do. This book is addressed to policy makers and teachers who are considering the possibility of getting involved in the teaching of MFL in the primary school.

An overview of the place of modern languages in the primary school in the 21st century. It is written for anyone with an active role in teaching languages in schools today, either at primary or secondary levels. It discusses the practical issues involved in teaching MFL to primary students.

& Quot;Teaching Modern Foreign Languages in the Primary School" supports student and practising teachers - whether generalist or specialist - to have the confidence and skills to successfully incorporate modern foreign languages into teaching. Based on the author's extensive experience of both teaching across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 and delivering initial teacher education, this book provides comprehensive guidance on the essential theory and pedagogy that underpins language teaching, together with strategies and tools that can be easily implemented in the classroom. This title covers e

Issues facing schools, teachers, and policy-makers in the expansion of elementary school instruction in modern second languages are discussed, particularly in the context of Scotland's educational system. An introductory chapter defines key terminology, the transition from pilot programs to institutionalization, and discusses briefly the distinction between "second" and "foreign" languages. The second chapter outlines five different instructional approaches and offers examples of foreign language initiatives in Scotland and elsewhere in the United Kingdom (UK), Europe, and some other countries. Objectives and difficulties encountered are examined. Several concepts in second language learning and use are considered in the third chapter, including use of language for real communication, language as a dynamic system of rules and strategies, communicative competence, "language acquisition" versus "language learning," progression of skills, and proficiency. In chapter four, evidence of instructional outcomes from UK elementary schools, immersion research, research on specific aspects of second language teaching (intensive teaching, first-language literacy, and second-to-first language transfer), and learner age is offered. A final chapter draws conclusions concerning starting age, implications of language policy for elementary language teaching, choice of approach, teacher qualifications, and implications for secondary education. (MSE)

Issues in Modern Foreign Languages Teaching draws together a range of issues in the teaching of modern foreign languages into one volume that will encourage students and newly qualified teachers to consider and reflect on the issues so that they can make a reasoned and informed judgement about their teaching of MFL. It will be relevant for students and newly qualified teachers at both primary and secondary level and will fill a gap in their knowledge due to time constraints - and an emphasis on standards - on ITT and PGCE courses.

Embodying the philosophy of learning through play, this book equips those faced with teaching foreign languages in the primary sector with a large collection of classroom activities which encourage pupils to use the foreign language in a fun and physical way, while focusing on speaking skills.