Author: Megan Hammell, SCEN
On 21 May SCEN hosted ‘Developing Mandarin as an L3: Strategies for development’, an online event run by Ann Robertson, Advisor on 1+2 Languages for East Lothian, Midlothian and Scottish Borders. With over 20 attendees, Ann’s presentation focused on the importance of L3s in schools’ curricula in developing students’ confidence with literacy and numeracy, gaining new perspectives, and building their confidence in speaking and future language learning. The 1+2 languages policy helps students gain an understanding of global citizenship and opens their minds to new ways of thinking.
Ann highlighted that contextualising language learning and embedding languages across the curriculum, as well as connecting with schools in China, helps students consolidate their understanding of Mandarin and improve memory retention of key aspects of the language. The value of explaining to students which transferable skills they are developing also helps students understand the options for future employability. The benefits of outdoor learning were also discussed, as combining it with language learning exercises the mind on a multitude of levels.
After the presentation, attendees split up into break-out groups. They shared their context and their planning for L3 Mandarin, and they discussed five questions. Attendees shared their own experiences with Mandarin as an L3, their thoughts on developing Mandarin as an L3 in schools and best practice when trying to engage students in language learning.
To conclude, Ann summarised key points to remember in regard to Mandarin as an L3:
- connected – wider skills
- contexts – broadening contexts
- culture – embedding within learning
- curriculum – coherent and clear
- cluster – planning in partnership
- language progression
- learner participation and voice
The event was thought provoking, and some great resources were shared to help attendees introduce and improve Mandarin as an L3 in Scottish schools. We thank Ann for her stimulating presentation, and to all those who attended and contributed to the discussion.