According to 2016 government figures, there are more than 1.3
million pupils speaking English as an additional language in our schools.
The definition of EAL used by the Department for Education is if a child is
exposed to a language at home that is known or believed to be one other than
English. This definition covers pupils who may have recently arrived in the
country, as well as families that have been here for many generations.
Because of funding cuts, many schools no longer have an EAL
co-ordinator, the job of integrating pupils successfully increasingly rests on
the shoulders of the classroom teacher. Proper staff training,
regular visits home, and specific guidance can all help students and parents for
whom English is an additional language. Each EAL pupil will vary in their level
of proficiency in their mother tongue, as well as in English, across the four
language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. It is important
for teachers to gain an understanding of their students’ ability in these areas
as well as taking into account their prior learning in order to obtain a well-rounded
assessment.
Google Translate is a frequently used tool to help develop
two languages simultaneously, as is Fusion VLE. With over 110 languages to
choose from, students are able to view the entire Fusion platform including timetables,
reports, calendars etc. in their chosen language and can also choose a second language
to view alongside, an incredibly valuable tool for anyone learning a new
language.
This tool can not only be utilised by those for whom English
is and Additional Language, but by any user looking to improve their language
skills. Increasing MFL knowledge in schools and equipping students with the
ability to understand, speak, read and write in a foreign language will be
vital in a post-Brexit Britain.
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