Learning+Languages

=VLN Primary Languages Programme=

In **[|learning languages]**, students learn to communicate in an additional language, develop their capacity to learn further languages, and explore different world views in relation to their own. (//NZCF//)

**Rationale:**
The VLN Primary Languages initiative seeks to extend opportunities and choices for students to access language learning opportunities. A collaborative, reciprocal staffing model between participating schools and the use of online technologies underpin how this programme operates.

Curriculum Guidelines:
Teaching and learning will incorporate the 3 strands of language learning as outlined in The New Zealand Curriculum (2008) at Level 1 & 2.

//from Instructed Second Language Acquisition – Rod Ellis 2006//
 * Teaching/learning will be guided by these principles:**
 * Instruction needs to ensure that learners develop both a rich repertoire of formulaic expressions and a rule-based competence.
 * Successful instructed language learning requires extensive target-language input.
 * Successful instructed language learning also requires opportunity for output.
 * The opportunity to interact in the target language is central to developing proficiency.

Programme Overview:
An introductory language programme will be of approx. 15 weeks duration. Extended language classes will be offered according to the needs of the students and the availability of eteachers. Term 1 - student enrolments, planning, teacher professional development. Classes start mid term 1. Term 3 - Mid-term 4 - 2nd Rotation & Extended language classes.

Formative assessment is part of the language programme. Students will receive a report/certificate of achievement at the conclusion of the programme. [|TKI Assessment Online]

Classes consist of 30 minutes 'real time' interaction through Adobe Connect and audio conferencing. In addition to this students need be given time and support in their home schools to continue their language learning. This may be ongoing practice, or exercises and activities set by their eteacher. The use of resources on the shared Google Drive are available to support both online and face to face students with practice and activities aligned to the language programme. The student online website Welearn is a private space where students can join learning groups, access resources and contribute their work.

The[| Learning Languages Series]eg. Oui, Ja etc will be the primary resource to guide programme delivery (where possible)


 * General Overview of Language Programme Structure**

//[|Adapted from Pongakawa School]//

**Professional Development**
Professional Development is important in upskilling teachers both in teaching languages and elearning pedagogies. The VLN Primary Initiative aims to support teachers Professional Development with a focus of improving learning outcomes for students in the languages programme. Professional Development support will be a combination of:
 * one on one, just in time professional learning (VLN Primary Facilitator),
 * peer observation, sharing and support,
 * online workshops,
 * Virtual PD mentoring,
 * support from Language Advisors, Natural Speakers, & Language Assistants where possible.