PDC in MFL: research for language teaching

Calling all teachers and ITE tutors! We would love you to send us your comments on our first draft of an alternative assessment framework for MFL teachers. Our research suggests that the current NC levels of attainment at KS3 for MFL are no longer adequate and may be contributing to the problems that teachers are facing in language teaching. This framework is being drafted to work alongside our eight research-based principles of teaching and learning, as a solution to the problem. It is intended for use at Key Stages 3 & 4. It will be redrafted once comments have been received – please take a look at it and comment below or send us your thoughts to pdcinmfl@gmail.com

Draft Introduction, Reading and Listening framework – PDF format

Draft Speaking and Writing framework – PDF format

Or if you prefer to view them in Word:

Draft Introduction, Reading and Listening Framework – Word format

Draft Speaking and Writing Framework – Word format

The process of seeking permissions from parents and carers to post the videos from the PDC in MFL workshops has been a long one, but we are getting there slowly! The first two videos can be viewed on the Videos page, if you have received the password that we sent by email to all delegates and people interested in the Consortium. If you would like access to the password, please contact h.bruton@reading.ac.uk telling her your name and organisation/school. Watch this space for more videos. All the other materials from the workshops are available through the pages on the top menu bar. You are welcome to download them and share with your colleagues. Thanks!

You can now access the materials and PowerPoints from the workshops on this blog. Use the menu bar across the top of the screen to navigate to separate pages for Listening, Reading, Writing and Oral Interaction. The PowerPoint presentations and other miscellaneous documents can be found on the ‘Other Resources’ page. The video clips shown at the workshops will be uploaded for you to watch as soon as all permissions have been sought from parents/carers, which we hope will happen early in the new term.

A further workshop took place at the University of Nottingham on Friday 28 September 2012 following the high demand from language professionals who wanted to take part. More than 84 language teachers, ITE tutors and trainees attended the workshop. Professors Suzanne Graham (Reading University) and Ernesto Macaro (Oxford University) presented the evidence underpinning eight principles for effective teaching and learning practice in MFL classrooms. The response from delegates was extremely positive and many have committed to sharing the principles with their departments this term, when they will also start putting the ideas into practice with their students!