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Guidance on implementation of the KS2 Framework for languages

Using resources to help you teach

There are many resources easily available to teachers starting out with the subject. An extensive single source of support is the website of the National Advisory Centre on Early Language Learning (NACELL) It includes:

• direct links to guidance and resources for primary languages;
• details of published resources in a searchable database;
• case studies of primary schools that teach languages;
• professional development information: materials, videos, books and training courses at home and abroad;
• networking: the early language learning email forum, Regional Support Groups and regular ELL bulletins;
• the NACELL best practice guide.

The site is a 'one stop shop' which offers a wide range of information and help for everyone involved in primary languages, whether just starting out or long experienced. Details of the website, and other useful sources of information, are at the end of this document.

As well as paper and ICT resources, people are a major support for language learning. Many schools have help from native speakers who can assist teachers to get started. They provide support for linguistic up-skilling as well as modelling the language for the children during the lesson. They may also be valuable sources of information and support with regard to the background culture and customs of the country where the language is spoken. They can be directed to work with groups of children on tasks and activities initiated by the teacher giving each in turn the opportunity to interact with a real speaker of the language being taught. This can be particularly helpful in enriching the learning of children of different levels of ability and experience.

Schools may consider bringing native speakers into the classroom through a number of routes:

• contacts in the school environment (parents and the community);
• Foreign Language Assistants (through the British Council, sometimes arranged through the Local Authority or associated secondary school or Specialist Language College);
• direct contact with the country concerned through video and internet links.