De Zarobe Yolanda Ruiz, Catalan Rosa Maria Jimenez. Content and Language Integrated Learning: Evidence from Research in Europe

Multilingual Matter, 2009. — 224 p.This book contributes to the growth of interest in Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), an approach to second/foreign language learning that requires the use of the target language to learn content. It brings together critical analyses on theoretical and implementation issues of Content and Language Integrated Learning, and empirical studies on the effectiveness of this type of instruction on learners’ language competence.
Review.
This volume promises to become a landmark in the evolution of CLIL in Europe. The authors provide a wealth of research evidence on all aspects of language learning in CLIL programs. Their findings will reassure CLIL educators about the benefits of CLIL and at the same time provoke valuable discussion about the next steps to be taken in developing even more effective forms of CLIL. Research does not have all the answers, but it can certainly stimulate reflection and discussion as stakeholders seek answers to challenging issues in CLIL and this book will definitely catalyze valuable discussions. Fred Genesee, Professor, Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal (Canada) This book is a very timely contribution to our understanding of CLIL. It offers valuable insights about theoretical and implementation issues and a much needed research-based account of the effects of Content and Language Integrated Learning. The volume is also a very welcome addition to studies on the acquisition of second language phonetics, lexicon, grammar and discourse in foreign language contexts. Jasone Cenoz, Professor of Education, University of the Basque Country, Spain Content and Language Integrated Learning: Evidence from Research in Europe is a key step in establishing an evidence-base for CLIL. In this book, the authors examine the processes and outcomes of CLIL practice. They reflect on shared current concerns in the language teaching sphere about the potential of CLIL in supporting, or otherwise challenging, language learning practice. Although there is 'no CLIL blueprint ready for export', the contexts described here, and the findings of research and enquiry, are relevant to those working in other settings where language and authentic content are combined in the curriculum. David Marsh, University of Jyvaskyla, Finland.