21 April 2005

CCEA launch language learning DVD

Local curriculum body CCEA has launched a new DVD showcasing the work being done in local primary schools to promote 2nd language learning at an early age.

The ‘Languages are Child’s Play’ DVD draws upon work developed through the Primary Languages Pilot Projects, conducted in collaboration with the ELBs in 2003-2004, and will be distributed to schools later this month.

Speaking today at the launch, CCEA Chief Executive Gavin Boyd, said: “In many countries throughout Europe children begin learning a second language when they start school. Research indicates that there is a specific area of the brain related to language learning and if we don’t use it by the age of eleven, we start to lose it.

“We hope that the increased flexibility provided by the revised Northern Ireland Curriculum will encourage more of our teachers to think about developing early language learning through play, song, story telling and rhyme. Our teachers need support and encouragement and this is exactly what the DVD aims to do.”

Anyone wishing to find out more about Early Language Learning or the Primary Languages Project should contact Marian Patterson on 028 9026 1200.

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