My ELP (European Language Portfolio) in the Classroom

Summary

Sinead Lulu, a French teacher in Newbridge, Kildare, shares her experience using the European Language Portfolio (ELP) for the first time. She explains the ELP’s three components: the passport, biography, and dossier, which help students track their language learning progress, cultural awareness, and achievements. Lulu emphasizes the ELP’s effectiveness in encouraging self-assessment and goal setting, noting how students enjoy seeing their progress. Although some students need guidance at first, they eventually gain confidence in evaluating their skills. The ELP’s bilingual format and ease of use make it a valuable tool in the classroom.

Takeaways

• 📚 The European Language Portfolio (ELP) is used by Sinead Lulu to help students track their language learning progress.
• 📑 The ELP has three components: the Passport, the Biography, and the Dossier.
• 🌍 The Passport allows students to note their linguistic identity, including any additional languages they speak.
• ✍️ The Biography records students' language learning experiences, including language awareness and cultural awareness.
• 📂 The Dossier is a collection of students' best work, chosen by themselves, which can include classwork or items from pen pals.
• 🇪🇺 The ELP originates from the European Council, and there is a version specifically designed for Irish schools.
• 🎯 The ELP helps students become more aware of their progress in language learning by setting and achieving goals.
• 🧠 Students can self-assess using the ELP, determining their skill level with or without help.
• 🔄 The ELP encourages self-monitoring, with many students enjoying tracking their progress and learning achievements.
• 📝 The process of using the ELP is quick and not time-consuming, often taking just one minute at the end of a class for self-assessment.

Q & A

What subject does Sinead Lulu teach and where?

Sinead Lulu teaches French in Sculverita, located in Mill Town, New Bridge County, Kildare.

What is the European Language Portfolio (ELP) and what are its components?

The European Language Portfolio (ELP) is a tool used to help pupils track and reflect on their language learning progress. It consists of three components: the Passport, the Biography, and the Dossier.

What is the purpose of the Passport component in the ELP?

The Passport allows pupils to note their linguistic identity, including any second languages they may know.

What does the Biography component of the ELP focus on?

The Biography focuses on pupils recording their language learning experiences and cultural awareness. It includes sections on communities of competence, language awareness, and cultural awareness.

What is included in the Dossier component of the ELP?

In the Dossier, pupils select and organize their best materials. It can include work they have done in class as well as other items, such as materials from pen pals.

How does the ELP help pupils in their language learning progress?

The ELP helps pupils develop a greater awareness of their language learning progress by allowing them to set goals and see their achievements clearly over time.

How do pupils assess themselves using the ELP?

Pupils assess themselves using the ELP by deciding how good they are at something. They mark whether they can do it with a lot of help, a little help, or entirely by themselves.

How do pupils react to using the ELP?

Many pupils enjoy using the ELP as it allows them to monitor their achievements and assess themselves. However, for some, it’s a learning experience, and it may take time to adapt.

How does Sinead Lulu balance using English and French while implementing the ELP?

Sinead Lulu balances English and French by explaining tasks in French and switching to English if difficulties arise. The ELP is bilingual, so pupils can follow the instructions easily.

How does the ELP help pupils reflect on their progress?

The ELP allows pupils to see their progress over time. For example, they can revisit tasks and see how their skills have improved from needing help to doing it independently.