Integrated learning of english and scientific knowledge: application to a teaching unit of 5th primary about concepts related to energy

Abstract

This work is intended to study if it is possible to design a Primary Science unit integrating both English and Science. In order to accomplish this aim CLIL methodology will be developed. In the first part of this work, the theoretical foundation of CLIL methodology is explained. Moreover, this work offers a careful research on teaching Science through inquiry learning which implies promoting children as active learners. Finally, the justification of the didactic unit developed and the aims that will be covered are shown. All of these foundations are applied to the case of dealing with energy matters to 5th year children. That is, this unit introduces concepts related to energy, sources of energy and sustainable development while integrating inquiry processes and CLIL methodology. Furthermore, the theoretical foundation includes an explanation of which aspects related to language need to be taken into account when creating the unit and how cooperative work can has been implemented inside the unit. Also, a guide to the teacher including the main aims of each lesson and notes about how the lessons need to be taught have been attached at the end of the unit.