PPLI Annual Report (2019) - Flipbook - Page 40
Impact
Feedback was positive. Some of the strengths of the modules that students cited were that:
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They enjoyed the task-based approach because it was active
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They enjoyed the use of technology in the classroom to undertake research
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They liked the balance between language and culture and finding out about Portuguese-speaking
countries and the similarities and differences between them.
Teachers also provided positive feedback from the experience focusing particularly on the advantages of the
methodology and the choice of individual modules available. This meant that they were able to give the
students a choice as in relation to the topics that they would prefer to study. To improve the modules, the
Portuguese teachers would like to source more authentic materials from different Portuguese-speaking
countries and some audio-visual material so that students can hear the different accents and varieties of
Portuguese from around the world.
Next Steps
New TY modules will be developed to promote language diversification in TY. PPLI will continue to employ
peripatetic teachers, where possible, to support schools wishing to diversify their provision of languages in
TY.
Polish and Lithuanian Short Courses (2.B.3, 2.E.9)
Action Progress:
In addition to schools in the Cork area, Polish short course continues to be taught in six schools in Dublin,
Galway and Wicklow. Lithuanian is being taught in four schools in the Dublin and Monaghan areas.
“I recognise how important it is for you to keep alive your culture and identity as you seek to
make a new life for your families here in Ireland. Your story is very similar to that of generations
of Irish people who have made the four corners of the world their home. I honestly believe that
by allowing your child to study Lithuanian in our school that you will keep your language and
traditions alive, that you will help your child reach their full potential and that they will make a
massive contribution to Irish society in the future”
(Patrick McArdle, Principal Beech Hill College, speaking to parents)
Following the Pilot phase (2017-2019) for the Short Course in Polish as a heritage language a review of the
specification took in place in June 2019 in consultation with teachers, students and school leaders. As a result
of the review, the strands were reorganised and the number of learning outcomes was reduced. The existing
Learning Journal has been replaced by a set of reflection activities.
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