2.1 School leaders – Activity 1

Listening to languages in the classroom

This activity should be informal and open-minded, about how teachers use languages in the classroom for student support and learning. This is not an activity to check adherence to the official language rules or policy.

1. As you walk around your school, make informal listening observations of languages in the classroom.

Do teachers switch between different languages? If so, what are the reasons for this?

Note down what happens during the situations experienced below:

• Managing and organising – directing students to sit or stand, to call for quiet, or to have students take out their books or turn to a specific page.
• Disciplining and punishment.
• Praising and rewarding.
• Learning vocabulary.
• Explaining concepts.
• Rephrasing in the local language to ensure students understand.
• Rephrasing in a simplified version of the language of instruction.
• Direct translating of words or phrases.
• Encouraging better communication with students.
• Helping students to participate.
• Encouraging students to pay attention.
• Helping students feel more confident.

2. After your listening observation, think about how such methods helped students and teachers.

1. What did you hear that you think was positive and effective?
2. Did using different languages help to improve the lesson, student participation or the classroom atmosphere?
3. Did anything surprise you?

Write a short summary of your thoughts and what you have learned.