The document discusses teaching foreign languages to children. It covers topics like multilingualism, plurilingualism, and bilingualism. It notes that foreign language teaching for children has become compulsory in some places, like England for children aged 7-14. The document also discusses misunderstandings around teaching children, including that it is straightforward like motherhood and that children only need simple language concepts, when they can also learn more complex topics like sports, music, and social issues. It concludes that expectations have increased for children to learn multiple languages, especially English, at an early age.

1. Teaching foreign languages
to children
Didáctica Especial I
Prof. M. Gabriela Bardotti

2. Teaching foreign languages to children
Setting the scene:
– Age
– African and Asian countries
– Europe and South America
– Compulsory in England since 2007
between 7 and 14 years old (primary
languages)

3. Teaching foreign languages to children
 Multilingualism
 Plurilingualism
 Bilingualism
 Monolinguism
 First language
 Second language
 Foreign language
 Primary language

4. Teaching foreign languages to children
 Misunderstadings in teaching children
1. Teaching children is strightforward.
 Extension of motherhood = less training
 Skills needed: primary teacher
+ knowledge of the language
+ managing skills
+ knowledge of teaching
+ knowledge of learning

5. Teaching foreign languages to children
 Misunderstadings in teaching children
2. Children only need simple language
 not just colours and numbers
 football, pop music, pollution or crime
 extensive knowledge of English words

6. Conclusion
 Increase in international expectations
about the need for several languages
(especially English) at an early stage.
 Redefinition of language learning
contexts.
 Awareness of the special position of
English language learners on account of
motivational and exposure issues.

7. Bibliography
 Cynthia Martin (2008). Primary Languages:
Effective Learning and Teaching. Learning
Matters, chapter 1.
 Images: office.com