The teaching and learning of foreign languages has been recognised both in Germany and the UK as essential to the needs of the knowledge society of the 21st century. Opportunities for early language learning have been introduced in different forms in nearly all German federal states and have been made a priority goal in the Languages Strategy published in 2003 by the Department for Education and Skills covering England and Wales.

This seminar will focus on experiences with the introduction of early language learning at policy level and in practice. Through the exchange of information and best practice, participants will explore latest developments and approaches for tackling common challenges in this area of education policy reform. The chances and challenges of introducing foreign languages at primary school level will be discussed with emphasis on three different areas: Curriculum, Implementation/Evaluation and Teacher Training.

Curriculum: Points of discussion (selection)

• Linguistic learning objectives - communicative competence, literacy, linguistic awareness
• Cultural learning objectives - knowledge of other countries, intercultural understanding
• The effect of early foreign language learning on general literacy
• The role of regional, minority and community languages
• Strategies for bilingual children
• Teaching methods and methodology
• Teaching resources and materials
• Cross-curricular links - impact of language learning on numeracy skills
• Foreign Language learning for mixed ability classes - additional challenge or benefit?
• Use of ICT (Information Communication Technology) in the classroom

Implementation and Evaluation: Points of discussion (selection)

• The optimum age for beginning the study of modern languages
• Timetable, time allocation: weekly lessons vs. dedicated daily blocks
• Partial immersion: the integration of other subjects into language teaching
• The alternative of total immersion - teaching all subjects through the medium of the foreign language
• Progress at different Key Stages
• Transition from primary to secondary level - co-operation between primary and secondary schools, school clusters
• Questions of assessment, recognition systems for learners
• Evaluation of pilot projects
• Federal standards, national standards and Common European Framework

Teacher training: Points of discussion (selection)

• Basic linguistic and cultural requirements for Foreign language teachers at primary level
• Training for existing teachers
• Development of specific training for early language teaching
• Integration of international contacts, exchange schemes for schools
• Foreign Language Assistants at Primary School level
• Use of native speakers not trained as teachers, role of classroom assistants