4 Summary

In this unit we have focused on content and English language integration in thematic units.

A thematic unit involves planning subject and language activities around a common theme for a week or more. How much time you allot for a theme depends on the amount of content you wish to cover, the age group and abilities of your students and, of course, the overall time available to implement the lessons.

Thematic units involve coordination and planning with other subject teachers. But teachers who have tried this approach feel extremely satisfied at the outcomes. Students also find the experience very fulfilling. If you have never tried integrating English with another subject, we hope you now feel confident to try out one or two ideas in your school.

Other Elementary English teacher development units on this topic are:

• Learning English in the creative arts
• Community resources for English
• Planning around a text.