CLIL and Science

CLIL – Content and Language Integrated Learning

Science – Chemistry and Environmental Education; Biology & Health Education; Physics and Astronomy

CLIL provides so many benefits to the students. Students become proficient in two languages, they gain social and cognitive advantages. Studies have shown that bilingual people are more flexible, better problem solvers and better communicators. In addition, learning a second language can improve a person’s memory and even protect against the effects of aging on the brain.

Other benefits include a deeper understanding of the target language, mastery of a subject, improved social and critical thinking skills, and even a stronger, more flexible brain. With all of these advantages to students, why not see if you can incorporate some CLIL principles and practices into our cooperative work?

The main aim of CLIL programs is to increase students’ subject-area knowledge while at the same time improving their knowledge of and skills in the target language. Moreover, students should improve their own ability to learn and come to understand and appreciate a new culture. Finally, students should stay close to their native language. They are adding a new language, not replacing the one they already know.

The most suited are the school subjects that involve student cooperation and have a cultural aspect to them. Some examples are the social sciences, the arts, many trades, and some sciences such as biology and chemistry.