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"Reflections of a language teacher.
Always learning."


Oracy in the Languages Classroom: Why Speaking Is So Much More Than Talking
When we talk about language learning, “speaking” often feels like the ultimate goal. It’s what learners and parents usually see as...
Silvia Bastow
Sep 75 min read


Fancy Trying Something Different? Why TPRS Might Be Worth Exploring in MFL
As language teachers, we’re always looking for ways to boost engagement, increase confidence and help our learners feel that what they’re...
Silvia Bastow
Jun 15 min read


The vital role of parental involvement in Languages classroom
In today’s globalised society, the importance of learning multiple languages is more apparent than ever. Language skills open doors to...
Silvia Bastow
Nov 3, 20247 min read


Celebrating the (European) Day of Languages: Engaging Activities for Students
The European Day of Languages is celebrated every year on September 26th across Europe. Established by the Council of Europe in 2001,...
Silvia Bastow
Sep 14, 20245 min read


Unpicking Engagement: Strategies for Reaching Middle-Attaining, Disengaged Boys in the Language Classroom
In the domain of language teaching, teachers often find themselves faced with the challenge of engaging students who seem disinterested...
Silvia Bastow
Mar 17, 20245 min read


Unlocking success: Supporting students with the lowest prior attainment in their GCSE exam
Achieving success in GCSE exams is a challenging journey for all students, but those with the lowest prior attainment often face unique...
Silvia Bastow
Jan 14, 20246 min read


"The Harmonious Approach": Using Songs for Teaching Languages
This year (March, 2023), I attended Eva Lamb's session at the Language World Conference organised by the Association for Language...
Silvia Bastow
Dec 10, 20234 min read
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