Bilingualism’s Impact on Cognition and Learning
Bilingualism and Cognitive Development
The evidence is not conclusive as to whether a linguistic advantage transfers to more general cognitive skills. McLaughlin’s review of the literature, for example, concludes:
Read MoreIt seems clear that the child who has mastered two languages has a linguistic advantage over the monolingual child. Bilingual children become aware that there are two ways of saying the same thing. But does this sensitivity to the lexical and formal aspects of language generalize to cognitive
Mastering Written Communication: Text Types & Grammar Essentials
Textual Properties and Communication Principles
Suitability: Introduction to Textual Elements
Suitability refers to how well a text adapts to its context. Key elements include:
- Margins and Paragraphs: Proper formatting for readability.
- Bold and Italic Typeface: Effective use for emphasis.
- Spelling Rules: Adherence to linguistic legislation for credibility.
Textual Register: Adapting to Context
The register of a text depends on the issue, the channel, and the receiver. There are two main types:
- Formal Register:
Bilingualism, Language Acquisition, and CLIL in Education
Module 1: Bilingualism, Benefits, and Second Language Acquisition
1. Understanding Bilingualism
In the 1950s, it was commonly believed that learning a second language (L2) negatively affected one’s first language (L1) proficiency. However, this view evolved significantly.
In the 1980s, Jim Cummins’ Developmental Interdependence Hypothesis emerged, stating that second language acquisition depends on the development of one’s first language. If students have strong skills in their first language, they
Read MoreFoundations of Language Pedagogy: Innovators, Methods & Classroom Practice
Innovators in Foreign Language Teaching
This section explains the relevance of key innovators in foreign language teaching: Nebrija, Comenius, Madame Leprince, and A.S. Hornby.
Antonio de Nebrija: Pioneer of Spanish Grammar
Nebrija stands out in the history of the Spanish language due to his publication in 1492, La Gramática Castellana. This groundbreaking work on grammar was divided into four parts: one dedicated to spelling, the second to prosody, the third to etymology, and the fourth to syntax.
Read MoreKrausism and the Philosophical Roots of the ILE Education
Philosophical Foundation of the ILE: Krausism
The Institución Libre de Enseñanza (ILE) education is rooted in Krausism, a philosophical current that, through the 18th century, traces back to the Renaissance. This places humanity at the center, asserting that humans have intrinsic value. This is the essence of Humanism, emphasizing the need to train individuals to be valuable members of society. While values are paramount, the development of society is also crucial. This perspective resonated in
Read MoreScientific-Technical Discourse: Structure, Language, & Genres
Understanding Scientific-Technical Discourse
Scientific-technical discourse involves the objective study of physical reality, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and its practical application.
Key Characteristics
- Produced in the field of cultural transmission of knowledge.
- Is verifiable.
- Uses jargon and neologisms.
- Recipients may be experts in the field or simply interested in it.
- Presents a clear logical structure, is precise, and clear.
Principles of Scientific Discourse
- Objectivity: Contents must