Writing a story in English is a very productive and exciting way to learn the language. At pre-intermediate and intermediate levels (Independent User on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), producing a narrative is an ideal way to bring together the skills of grammar, reading and writing. It can give the English teachers a chance to teach new vocabulary by modelling enthusiasm for and curiosity about new words through their own behaviour and attitudes. The two enthusiastic teachers of English in the partner schools have already been looking for 'teachable moments' throughout the day for the past month, pointing out interesting words as they work on texts, asking students to explore alternative ways of expressing concepts, helping identify colourful, descriptive ways of writing.
The 'Guided activity' that is about to start these days has got 15 steps.
Step number 1: We will need to choose one European value (out of the 12 mentioned beforehand) as that value will be the one we will work with - it is to be turned into 'The Message that We Want to Send to the World'. The two teams will need to decide on a common value.
The Italian team has been thinking about FRIENDSHIP - and the MESSAGE: Good friends warm the heart.
