[eal-bilingual] QCA considers new EAL GCSE

It is really important that the purpose of a GCSE EAL option course is clarified, so that it not seen as solely being a language qualification (ie as an alternative to mainstream English subject GCSE or some other language qualification) but rather about assisting students in learning English,
whilst they are also learning about school and the curriculum, as this is actually what EAL students need. A course that focuses on the development of English and also, equally importantly, on school and curriculum-related knowledge, understanding and skills will help learning in other subjects.

Sara

Sara Green
Head of Language Development Service
Family and Children's Services Kensington and Chelsea
Isaac Newton PDC
108a Lancaster Road
London W11 1QS

Tel: 020 7598 4817
Fax: 020 7598 4808

Email: sara.green at rbkc.gov.uk
www.rbkc.gov.uk/eal14to19

-----Original Message-----
From: eal-bilingual-bounces at lists.becta.org.uk [mailto:eal-bilingual-bounces at lists.becta.org.uk] On Behalf Of helen tucker
Sent: 11 June 2007 09:14
To: eal-bilingual at lists.becta.org.uk
Subject: Re: [eal-bilingual] QCA considers new EAL GCSE

There are already qualifications for pupils studying English as a 
foreign/second/other language - IELTS, FCE, CAE, CPE.  Employers might need 
educating in respect of what these qualifications mean, but that shouldn't 
be too difficult (should it?).  By having a GCSE in EAL, are we not just 
adding another qualification into the mix - for the sake of having a 
qualification?

_________________________________________________________________
Txt a lot? Get Messenger FREE on your mobile.  
https://livemessenger.mobile.uk.msn.com/

*********************************************************** 
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
This e-mail may contain information which is confidential, 
legally privileged and/or copyright protected. This e-mail 
is intended for the addressee only. If you receive this in 
error, please contact the sender and delete the material 
from your computer.

************************************************************ 