Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) is a method based on applying English in common subject classes, in our case, in the subject of Natural Science. CLIL advocates that if we want to learn English, it should be through the study of common subjects in English, not through an English-only subject which is treated in isolation and creates forced and invented situations.
Language in this system is at the centre of the learning process. Language is learned through its use in unrehearsed situations, in real situations, which the learner will be able to repeat in his or her life in the future. It is about the active application of the language in study in order to get used to speaking English and to be prepared in the future to deal with everyday situations. Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) is a cognitive challenge for learners, who develop their basic interpersonal communication skills and cognitive-academic language competence in this way.
CLIL teaching is learner-centred and very flexible. Learning is interactive and autonomous and is focused on processes and tasks, not just theoretical knowledge. The main source of linguistic input comes from textual and aural materials and therefore the most practised skills are reading and listening. The language is seen from a lexical rather than a grammatical point of view and the most important thing is that the learner acquires fluency in the language.
We can say that thanks to this methodology, our students acquire the knowledge and skills to be able to develop more and more fluency in this language.
