Worldwide Survey of Primary Elt

Worldwide survey of primary ELT - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Worldwide survey of primary ELT

Review the findings of the survey
List of countries | Public sector | Private sector
About the survey

This is a survey of what is happening in teaching English as a foreign language to Young Learners (children under the age of 11 years) at the levels of public policy, beliefs and practical implementation. The survey was designed by Shelagh Rixon, from the Centre for English Language Teacher Education, University of Warwick. A common experience for those interested in this area has been that there are sources available for theoretical perspectives, but that it is more difficult to discover what exactly is happening on a day-to-day basis in schools and teacher training institutions in different countries. Most information has come through journalism, personal experience and anecdotes. We decided to collect information from more authoritative sources and to display it in a way that allows it to be updated rapidly as situations change. We feel that reliable information on Young Learners teaching is of considerable practical importance in the following ways:
q
Course providers such as universities, colleges and language schools need accurate information when they tailor teacher education courses to the needs of Young Learners teachers from different countries. There is a very widespread public faith in the 'Younger = Better' equation. Faith, rather than experience, seems to be a strong factor in the decision in many countries to lower the age at which English or another foreign language is taught. It could be beneficial for those in countries thinking of embarking on a new project to teach English to young children to have information on the decisions taken in other places, and on some of the practical consequences they have had, both positive and negative.
These issues are starting to become of more concern at a public level in a number of countries. A measure of this concern is the number of enquiries seeking expert advice on YL made to British Council offices worldwide. These have often come from senior
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Worldwide survey of primary ELT - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
government officials, from a Minister of Education's private office for example, sometimes after an introduction of Young Learner teaching has not brought the publicly desired swift results, or for reasons such as a change of government and a desire to re-evaluate the activity in terms of its cost-effectiveness. Some have come from countries wishing to make a start and to teach EYL in the most effective way possible. The audience for the results of these investigations is, therefore, a professional as well as an academic one, and the questions include facts and figures and practical issues that may be of use to decision makers. The information summarised on the web pages was collected by means of a questionnaire. The informants were contacted via British Council offices or relevant professional associations and were selected for their local knowledge and professional standing in the field of teaching English to Young Learners. Every attempt has been made to supply accurate and up-to-date information, but the British Council cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy of the data gathered. To facilitate interpretation of the information on each country page, the date at which the information was collected or last reviewed can be found at the end of the page. We want to share our findings with language teaching professionals, and all those involved in decision making in this area. We would like to acknowledge here all those who have contributed to this survey.
Expanding the survey

If you would like to contribute data for us to add to the survey, or have more information or enquiries, please contact ELT Group. We would be particularly grateful for assistance with information on countries for which so far it has not been possible to collect data; the questionnaire may be downloaded for this purpose. (Please select Word or Rich Text format.)
Futher informaion
Key questions about EYL Articles about EYL
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Key questions about EYL - English - The British Council United Kingdom
Key questions about EYL

Here are some key questions regarding the teaching of Young Learners to bear in mind when reading the articles and studying the results of the survey. The first two sets of questions relate to policy, while the questions in the third set are pedagogical. How do other countries manage English at primary school?
q q q q
Which countries have introduced English at primary level? How do those countries train their primary English teachers? What level of English do successful primary teachers need? How do countries manage the transition from primary to secondary English?
What are the advantages of starting English at primary school?

q q q q
What evidence is there that "younger is better" in language learning at school? Conversely, what evidence is there that starting English later is a disadvantage? What are the features of successful primary English teaching and learning? Is success measured by English proficiency or wider developmental goals?
Can natural language acquisition be replicated through school learning?

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Children break all the rules while they are acquiring a language: should teachers be trained to encourage them to do so? Children speak before they read: how would parents react if they saw no written work? Children acquire language from people, not teachers: should teachers be trained to be "people"? Children acquire language through constant conversation about their immediate needs: can this situation be replicated in a classroom and to a timetable? Children acquire language by different strategies: can teachers cope with these differences in the classroom setting?
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Articles - English - The British Council United Kingdom
Articles
These brief articles cover key issues in the field of Young Learner teaching and more will be added in due course. They express the views of the authors, not those of the British Council.
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Optimum age or optimum conditions? Issues relevant to the teaching of languages to primary age children Shelagh Rixon, Centre for English Language Teacher Education, University of Warwick, UK
Teaching English to Young Learners: Reflections on a decade Gail Ellis, The British Council, France, and Centre for Research into Second and Foreign Language Pedagogy, University of Nottingham, UK
Teaching English to Young Learners in Poland Daf Pawelec, SPRITE YL Project Coordinator, British Council, Poland
Teacher training for Young Learners: A Mexican example Anamaria Aramayo, British Council, Mexico
Produced in United Kingdom by The British Council 2000. The British Council is the United Kingdom's international organisation for educational and cultural relations. Registered in England as a Charity.
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Countries - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Countries surveyed in primary ELT

Here are the results of the survey reported by country, looking at both the public and private sectors of primary English Language Teaching. Argentina Bangladesh Croatia Ecuador Greece Iceland India - Maharashtra Israel Malaysia Pakistan Russia Spain Taiwan United Arab Emirates Austria Brazil Cyprus Ethiopia Hong Kong India - Goa India - West Benegal Korea Mexico Poland Slovenia Sri Lanka Tunisia Ukraine Bahrain Colombia Czech Repubilc France Hungary India - Gujarat Indonesia Latvia Netherlands Romania South Africa Sudan Turkey Venezuela
Back to world-wide survey home | English home
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Argentina - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Argentina
q
Public sector primary schools Private sector primary schools Private sector language schools Private tuition for young learners
Public sector primary schools
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? When was it introduced? At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL? How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system?
It is in the process of introduction, province by province
1998 (regionally) 8/9 See above
No
Not fewer than 72 x 60minute lessons per year Not stated
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Who does the EYL teaching?
The class teacher (5% approximately) A specialist teacher working in a single school (5% approximately) A specialist teacher working in several schools (10% approximately) Someone who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in a single school (40% approximately) As above but working in several schools (40% approximately) Anyone with a teaching degree
Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers?
No. Teacher supply is a problem. In some areas qualification requirements are being relaxed so that classes can be covered. There is no national curriculum as such but there are curriculum matrices/ guidelines for each subject, and for English there is a detailed specification of content There is no school budget for books, so teachers make their own materials Lesson materials adapted from published sources Spanish as a second language for indigenous learners. Provinces can opt for Portuguese or French. A general education reform is underway
What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching?
Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? What materials are typically used?
What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?
Are any changes in the provision of EYL planned or anticipated?
Back to the top of page
Private sector primary schools
Is there a significant number of these schools? What percentage of primary age children attends them? What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools?
Yes, mostly in Buenos Aires
Not stated
A great variety. Some schools use a content-based inderdisciplinary approach. Bilingual schools may offer up to 20 hours per week of English. Not stated
What materials do they use for EYL?
Private language schools
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL? What materials do they use for EYL?
Only in Buenos Aires
Not stated
3-10 a week
Private language schools offer more advanced classes and have a different methodology Mainly imported and mainly from the UK
Private tuition for Young Learners
Is there private tuition for primary age children? How many Young Learners are involved?
Yes, especially in areas where other options are limited Not stated
What is the typical starting age for private tuition? Why do parents use private tutors?
Before mainstream education
Parents think of English as a necessary skill and do not consider that public schools are meeting their objectives in teaching it. Something that you pay for is seen as better than something for free.
Date information collected: 1999
British Council. The British Council is the United Kingdom's international organisation for educational and cultural relations. Registered in England as a Charity. Our privacy statement.
Our Freedom of Information Publications Scheme
Austria - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Austria
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Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? When was it introduced? At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980?
Yes, as an alternative to French or Italian
1983 8 (Year 3) Since 1988 there has been pilot teaching of EYL from age 6 (Year 1). It will be made compulsory from 2003. Not stated
Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
1 hour per week (35hours per year), but always taught in 15-20 minute blocks. English can also be the medium of instruction for music, PT, craft.
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How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system? Who does the EYL teaching?
Not stated
The class teacher (99%) A specialist teacher (1%) Anyone qualified to teach primary education may teach EYL Yes. All EYL teachers have had 9 years of a foreign language at school followed by 3 more years at college. In addition there is a plentiful supply of in-service training. There is a national curriculum
Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers?
What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved?
There is a list of officially approved locally published materials that teachers may choose from Materials adapted from published sources Original materials devised by teachers themselves. A school would not officially use an international book.
What materials are typically used?
French and Italian are taught from age 8. This will be lowered to age 6, in line with English. From 2003 a foreign language will be taught from age 6 (Year 1). There is wide political and practical support for this change. Some schools were authorised to make the change as early as 1998 and it is expected that most will have done so by 2001. Back to the top of page
Is there a significant number of these schools?
No, and those that exist are controlled by the state and follow national programmes
No
Is there private tuition for primary age children?
No
Bahrain - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Bahrain
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Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? When was it introduced? At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL? How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system? Who does the EYL teaching?
Yes
1920 9 (Grade 4) No
Yes. Schools are permitted to offer English from Grade 1, if resources are available. 5 hours per week x 32 teaching weeks = 160 hours per year 150 teachers 30,000 students
A specialist teacher of English who teaches in only one school (100%)
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Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system?
An established primary school teacher with the local equivalent of FCE A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and who is qualified to become a primary teacher of English A teacher accredited from outside Bahrain
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching?
Yes. (The availability of teachers from outside Bahrain may help.) There is a detailed specification of content with, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included in the teaching Yes. There is only one approved book, published specially for use in Bahrain. In addition to the above Original materials devised by the teachers themselves Materials adapted from published sources International published coursebooks Local published supplementary materials
What other foreign languages are taught at primary level? Are any changes in the provision of EYL planned or anticipated?
None
Lowering the starting age is under discussion Back to the top of page
Yes
What percentage of primary age children attends them? What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools? What materials do they use for EYL?
6%
Earlier starting age; English medium education
Not stated
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL?
Yes
15 - 20%
3-4 per week
The higher levels of private students' English cause compatability problems with students in public schools. Public schools are often compared unfavourably with private schools. British and US materials
No
Bangladesh - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Bangladesh
q q q q
Yes
1992 6 (Primary 1) Yes. After independence in 1971 English was not compulsory in public schools. No
Year 1 and 2: 44 hours per year Year 3 and 4: 82 hours per year (varies slightly from district to district) (This is delivered for 4 hours per week in 6x40minute lessons. Officially there are 30 teaching weeks per year but 20 weeks is closer to reality.)
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How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system? Who does the EYL teaching? What qualifications are required to teach EYL in the public education system?
228,000 teachers 18,030,805 students
The class teacher (100%) Men: Higher School Certificate. Women: School Certificate. There is no pre-service training. All primary school teachers are required to teach English, though in practice few are qualified to do so. No. The situation is being addressed by a government-sponsored Primary Education Development Programme (PEDP). There is a fairly detailed outline of suitable content Yes. There is only one approved book, published specially for use in Bangladeshi schools. Locally published coursebooks None
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers?
What materials are typically used? What other foreign languages are taught at primary level? Are any changes in the provision of EYL planned or anticipated?
There has been some discussion about raising the starting age to Year 3, age 8. Back to the top of page
Is there a significant number of these schools? What percentage of primary age children attends them?
Yes
10% (estimated)
What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools?
The main differences are a mostly English medium and the use of nonGovernment materials, some of them imported Non-government materials. Some are imported.
Yes
5% (estimated)
4 hours per week
Private students' English is generally more advanced.
Imported textbooks
Is there private tuition for primary age children? How many Young Learners are involved? What is the typical starting age for private tuition?
Yes
Not stated
Usually not before mainstream education
Why do parents use private tutors?
English has a high market value and public primary schools are perceived to be poor at teaching it
Brazil - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Brazil
q
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools?
No
Is there a significant number of these schools? What percentage of primary age children attends them? What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools? What materials do they use for EYL?
Yes
Not stated
There is no public sector EYL provision
Not stated
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Brazil - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Yes - Culturas inglesas, LAURELS franchises, US binational centres Not stated
2.5 per week
N/A
Imported UK and US textbooks
Not on a significant scale
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Colombia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Colombia
q q q q
It is not widespread
Not stated 11 (at secondary school) Yes. There is now some progress for students in primary schools.
There is some, in upper primary
3 x 45 minutes per week
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Who does the EYL teaching? Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved?
The class teacher (100%) Not stated
Not stated
There is a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content Teachers may choose any published materials, provided that they are within the school budget. Original materials devised by the teachers themselves Materials adapted from published sources International coursebooks Locally produced coursebooks None
There is a project to make English a compulsory subject
Yes
80%
Not stated
Not stated
Yes
10%
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
No
Croatia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Croatia
q
Yes
1997 Age 6/7 (Year 1) In 1980 EYL was introduced in Year 4, age 9/10. In 1997 it was trialled from Year 1, age 6/7, in some schools. Not applicable
Years 1-4: 70 or 170 hours per year, depending on resources available. Years 5-8: 105 hours per year. Statistics are not available
How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system?
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The class teacher (10%) A specialist teacher (80%) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in a single school (10%) A teacher with pre-service training or a college or university qualification A secondary school teacher willing to teach in a primary school Teacher supply is a problem. Intensive English is being offered at Primary Teacher Training Colleges to remedy it. There is a detailed specification of content Yes, and they must be within the budget of the school Both international and local coursebooks French, German and Italian - with the same starting age and other conditions as English Not stated
What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? What materials are typically used? What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?
No
Yes
How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL? What materials do they use for EYL?
Not stated
2 per week
Children attending private language schools enjoy better conditions
Local and international materials
Is there private tuition for primary age children? How many Young Learners are involved? What is the typical starting age for private tuition? Why do parents use private tutors?
Yes
Not stated
Usually before mainstream education
They believe that their children can get better quality lessons
Cyprus - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Cyprus
q
Yes
Over 50 years ago 9/10 (Primary Year 4) EYL was introduced for Year 4 in 1993
No
3 x 40 minute lessons x 30-35 weeks per year (approx 60-70 hours per year) 636 teachers 31,353 students
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The normal class teacher (98%) A specialist teacher of English who works only in one school (1%) A specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school (1%) A teacher who has had pre-service training at school or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary school A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school A teacher who has had (after preservice training) a course in the UK Yes
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? What materials are typically used?
There is a detailed specification of content Yes. There is only one approved book
There is a specially written book which is the only approved book, but teachers also make their own materials and choose and adapt from international and locally published books None
There are extensive reviews (as of 1999) related to UNESCO and to accession to the European Union Back to the top of page
Yes
Not stated
Different number of teaching hours, different curriculum, different materials
Not stated
Yes
1,480 out of 31,353 (approximately 5%)
2-3 hours per week
There are no significant differences
Various materials, mostly imported from the UK
Is there private tuition for primary age children? How many Young Learners are involved?
Yes
Not stated
What is the typical starting age for private tuition? Why do parents use private tutors?
To provide their children with more opportunities for language learning; English is essential for local jobs and for study abroad; public provision is not considered adequate in volume and quality
Czech Republic - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Czech Republic
q
Yes
September 1997 9/10 (Grade 4) Yes. After the political changes in 1989 it became part of basic school education, starting in Grade 6. In 1997 this was dropped to Grade 4. Yes. There is a special category of schools - Basic Schools with Extended Teaching of Languages - where children can start their first foreign language in Grade 3. This covers 10% of children. Also, a minority of schools may start English in Grade 1.
Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL?
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How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
3 x 40 minutes per week = 99 lessons per year. Where English is taught in Grade 1 (as an option) there are 20minute lessons, the number varying from 2-4 per week. This is very difficult to estimate. The number of teachers in Basic schools (Grades 1-9) is 65,000, so a reasonable guess/estimate for EYL teachers is between 5,000 and 8,000. The guess/ estimate for students is 150,000. The children's normal class teacher A specialist teacher who visits different schools to give lessons An unqualified teacher who knows English A teacher of another subject who has been requalified to teach English (See note 1) A primary school teacher with preservice training A secondary school teacher who is willing to work in a primary school (the pay is lower) Occasionally a native speaker (with no formal qualifications)
Who is qualified to teach EYL in the public education system?
No. Teacher supply is a problem. In some areas qualification requirements are being relaxed so that classes can be covered. Local authorities are running courses to upgrade teachers' language skills. Some of these courses are officially recognised with university support, but they are not standardised.
There is a fairly detailed outline of suitable content listing, e.g., topic areas, functions, skills to concentrate on. The syllabus is often the text book.
Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved?
There is a list of officially approved books for which the school budget can be used, but if parents agree to pay, other books may be used Internationally published coursebooks (well over 50%) Locally published coursebooks (3040%) About half of the children learn German
Possibly lowering the start age to Grade 3 to come in line with EU recommendations - but this will probably not happen for at least 5 years Back to the top of page
Note 1* Between 1990 and 1995 requalifying courses were popular, but mostly for Grade 5+. The majority of teachers in primary Grade 4 and below have no formal qualifications to teach English but as qualified primary teachers are permitted to do so.
No, there are only 1 or 2 in the whole country
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes?
Yes
Under 20%
How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public and private provision in EYL?
2 per week
Children in private schools are more advanced than their public school counterparts and have a head start in preparing for the entrance exams to special 'extended language' schools. The same materials as are used in public schools
Basically no (less than 0.5%)
British Council, The United Kingdom's international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. We are registered in England as a Charity. Our privacy statement
Ecuador - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Ecuador
q
It is not compulsory. Schools have the option of teaching up to 70 hours per year. December 1993 5/6 (Year 1 Basic) No
No
Optional up to 70 hours per year. 1-2 x 45 minutes per week. Not stated
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A specialist teacher of English who works only in one school A specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school A person who is not a qualified teacher who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school In some cases a person who is totally unqualified An established primary teacher who has passed a local test or exam (various unofficial proficiency tests) An established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised test or exam (UCLES First Certificate, TOEFL) A primary teacher who has successfully completed an in-service training course in English language and/ or EYL methodology (but there are no official courses) A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary school A teacher who is qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in Education or Teaching methodology A native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher A non-native speaker who has lived some time in the USA, for example No. No steps are being taken.
There is a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content
There is no school budget for books, so teachers must make all their own materials or ask students to buy from a range of published materials (local or international) Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources International published coursebooks Locally published coursebooks Some 20% of public primary schools are bilingual, with indigenous languages being L1 and Spanish L2 No
Yes
Approximately 30%
Hours per week of English: this varies from 4-10. A very small number of schools teaches other subjects in English. Not stated
Yes
How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL?
Approximately 10%
5 per week
The methodology is different: there is more emphasis on conversation skills; English levels are more advanced; these schools generally don't focus on school exams. Internationally published books
No
Ethiopia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Ethiopia
q
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? When was it introduced? At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
Yes
Over 50 years ago, in Grade 3 8 (approximately) (Grade 1) Yes, the starting age was lowered to Grade 1 in 1992 No
1 lesson of 45-55 minutes per day (The number of teaching weeks in a year is not stated.) Not stated
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Who does the EYL teaching? Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system?
The class teacher (85%) Primary teachers are qualified to teach all subjects, including English, after 1 year of pre-service training Yes, because primary teachers are trained to teach all subjects There is a general syllabus produced by the Institute of Curriculum Research There is only one approved book published specially for schools in each administrative district. Each district has a mandate to produce its own textbooks based on the general syllabus mentioned above. Locally published textbooks for each administrative district Regional languages are now the medium of instruction for primary schools, so if students are not L1 speakers of the regional language they have to learn it. This applies to Amharic too - so students who do not speak Amharic have to learn it. There are plans that teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget Back to the top of page
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved?
No
No
Yes
2% (approximately)
Usually the same as for compulsory education They feel that English is important as it becomes the medium of instruction in secondary and tertiary education
France - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
France
q
It is not compulsory (other languages are taught) but is widespread
1989 Year 4 In 1989 EYL was introduced in an experimental programme as one choice among other foreign languages for Years 4 and 5 with the aim of raising language awareness (sensibilisation). In September 1992 the experiment continued, but the emphasis shifted to more achievement in the FL (initiation) and greater use of the normal class teacher. Since 1995 a FL has been taught from Primary Year 2, age 7-8 years.
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It is not widespread, but there is some. If schools have a willing qualified teacher, they will introduce it in Year 1 (age 6, approximately) or even in Nursery School. There have been changes over time (see above). 1989: 2-3hours per week for Years 4 and 5. 1995: 15 minutes per day x 4 days per week = 1hour for Primary 2 and 3, and 1.5 hours weekly for Years 4 and 5. Teachers 24,615 Students 602,845 Note: Figures represent numbers of teachers and students involved in foreign languages in general at primary level in 1994/5. 71.9% of these were involved with English. The childrens normal class teacher (44.9%) A person, not a qualified teacher, who knows English and who visits different schools to give lessons (14%) A secondary school teacher (35.3%) A foreign language assistant (4.1%) A French foreign language student (1.7%) Note: Figures represent teachers of all foreign languages at primary level for 1994/1995 An established primary teacher who has passed a local test or exam in English. (Official approval - agrment is needed for a primary teacher to teach English. This involves a short oral interview with the Regional English School Inspector.) A primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English language and/or EYL methodology. (Some local education authorities organise in-service courses for primary teachers, but the agrment is also
needed, as described above). A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level. (The teaching of a foreign language was reintroduced into the teacher training colleges in 1990). A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school, but who is willing to work in primary schools. A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in Education or Teaching methodology. A native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher. (Such teachers are required to obtain authorisation and this normally involves an interview with an Inspector). Other: English Language Assistants from the Central Bureau for International Education and Training scheme. The class teacher should be present during the class. Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? No. The following steps are being taken to remedy the situation: Foreign languages have been reintroduced into the teacher training colleges. In-service training is being organised by local education authorities. Two courses for French primary school teachers of English are organised in Edinburgh and Colchester each summer. A structured specification of content. (Content is listed by functions with examples of phrases and highlighted phonological features.)
Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international) provided they are within the school budget. In addition all schools are provided free with specially created video materials in the chosen language, with a Teachers Guide. These were published in 1995 by the CNDP (Centre National de Documentation Pdagogique). Two higher levels were published in 1996 and 1997. Teachers are not obliged to use these. See above. There is a great tradition in France for teachers to use supplementary materials rather than coursebooks. Teachers like to use authentic materials such as videos, games, stories, puzzles and so on. The cultural aspect of teaching a foreign language (civilisation) is an important component in France. German, Arabic, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and some others The discussion here is based around the systematisation and diversification of the teaching of foreign languages in France beginning in 1999, so that all students beginning with Year 5 of primary school will be taught a foreign language, and from 2000 all students in Year 4. However, the reality is that this still remains at the discussion level in many parts of France. The emphasis is on the development of spoken language for communication. Back to the top of page
Yes. Most private primary schools in France are under contract to the state. This means that the curriculum is the same as in public schools, teachers are paid by the Ministry of Education and the fees are very low. Not stated
The only difference may be earlier introduction of a foreign language
The same as in public primary schools
Yes. The British Council Young Learners Centre in Paris is prominent amongst them. Not stated
How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English is typically offered? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL?
Up to 6 per week
Children attending these schools will probably have more advanced English lessons, more hours of English (may be up to 6 per week) and the methodology will almost certainly be based much more on British practice A wide variety of published, in-house and authentic materials
It exists, but not to a great extent. Classes are often organised in schools during the lunch hour or after school, which is a great convenience for working parents. Parents pay a small fee for these classes. The teacher could come from an outside organisation or from the school itself and be remunerated by, for example, a Parents Association. Not stated
How many Young Learners are involved? What is the typical starting age for private tuition? Why do parents use private tutors?
May be before mainstream education
Many French parents have a desire for their children to become bilingue but they generally have very unrealistic expectations and little understanding as to how long it takes to become truly bilingual.
Greece - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Greece
q
Yes
1993 9 (Year 4) No
No
80 hours (approximately). There are 35 teaching weeks/year and EYL lessons amount to 2.25 hours in 3 x 45minute sessions per week 1,000 teachers (approximately) 353,000 students (1997 figures)
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/greece.htm (1 of 5)07/12/2004 09:41:52
A specialist teacher working in a single school (60%) A specialist teacher working in several schools (40%) A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary level but who is willing to work in primary schools Yes
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough eligible EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching?
There is a fairly detailed outline of suitable content listing, e.g., topic areas, functions, skills to concentrate on There is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in Greece. No other choice is allowed. Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources Locally published coursebooks Not stated
Yes, lowering the starting age by 1 year
Yes
What percentage of primary age children attends them? What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools?
Approximately 5%
Private schools must follow the same curriculum as public schools. They may have better trained teachers, smaller classes and more resources. Not stated
Yes
Approximately 80%
3-6 per week
There is conflict. Children attending language schools usually start earlier and become more advanced than other children - and than the coursebook. In addition, more attractive books are used, as are computers, videos, etc., which are not available in public schools. The prevailing culture is that 'real' language learning takes place in the language schools, not in the public schools. Teachers in the public sector suffer from low morale and feel resentful. However, there are signs that parents are now delaying sending their children to language schools as they are learning English at public schools.
A variety of international and locally published materials is used. Since there is fierce competition between language schools, the latest courses tend to be chosen. Course 'companions' are also in wide use, as are supplementary grammar and skills books. There are also videos, computers, etc.
Yes
Approximately 10%
To get a head start. English is regarded as essential to future education and employment. The goal is Cambridge FCE by age 14, CPE by age 16. In general parents do not think highly of public sector provision. Other reasons include more opportunity to practice and develop fluency; the individual attention that private tutors can give; convenience (fewer hours, less travelling and disruption); and access to first language speakers.
Hong Kong - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Hong Kong
q
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? When was it introduced?
Yes
A long time ago, from the early years of Hong Kong's existence as a British colony 5/6 (Primary 1) No
At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
Yes. English is taught at kindergarten, which most children attend from age 3.
Primary 1-3: 8 lessons per week of 35 minutes each Primary 4-6: 9 lessons per week of 35 minutes each. The teaching year is 40 weeks, so approximately 180-210 hours per year
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/hongkong.htm (1 of 5)07/12/2004 09:42:00
In Government and Aided schools there are 3,657 subject trained teachers of English and 3,998 non-subject trained teachers of English. Students: 461,911 The childrens normal class teacher (52% approximately) A specialist teacher of English who works in only one school (48% approximately) An established primary teacher who has passed a local test or exam in English. (Most primary teachers in Hong Kong have studied at Hong Kong Institute of Education and hold a certificate marking completion of a 2year full-time course. These teachers may or may not have studied English as their main elective.) A primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English Language and/or EYL methodology. (This would also apply: Many teachers at Hong Kong Institute of Education spend 6 weeks in the UK on an immersion course to upgrade their English.) Yes, thanks to training offered by Hong Kong Institute of Education, which is currently in the process of upgrading its course to BEd level. Although there are enough teachers, there are concerns about maintaining sufficient standards of English. There is a detailed specification of content with, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be used in the teaching. (The Education Department has produced a syllabus, which all schools follow).
Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international), provided that they are within budget and that the materials have had official clearance or approval. (Parents have to purchase the books for their children as stipulated by the school. Hong Kong publishers produce a wide selection to Education Department guidelines, and then schools tell the parents.) Locally published coursebooks None
There is a move away from the final exams in Primary 6, which decide which secondary school the students will attend, towards continuous assessment. The Target Oriented Curriculum should keep a record of students' attainments in English, Chinese and Maths so that the final decision in Primary 6 is based on their work throughout primary school. However, at the moment (1999) the final exams still hold sway.
Yes
Approximately 10% (46,399 out of 461,911)
What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools?
In most of these schools all lessons are taught in English. They are very prestigious. Another 4,949 students attend English Schools Foundation (ESF) schools, which are meant to cater to the children of native speakers, but since there are fewer and fewer of them, more local students are being accepted, even though their standard of English is lower. Also, many non-Chinese students end up at ESF schools as there is nowhere else for them to go. Not stated
No; the British Council is the main one
The British Council school has 2,060 EYL students a term At the British Council students study for 2 hours 40 minutes a week for 9 weeks The methodology (at the British Council) is different from the schools, but the parents approve of that, and prefer native speaker teachers. The students enjoy the classes and occasionally parents worry that that means that they are not learning enough. The British Council produce their own thematic, activity-based materials
Yes
Probably about 10%, the children of better-off parents The same as in the public school system
There is a large amount of homework given, and if parents are both working they employ someone to help the child get the work done. This may be a secondary school student, or someone more qualified. Many primary schools are open only mornings or afternoons, so students have a lot of work to do at home.
Hungary - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Hungary
q
Yes, but it is one of a choice of foreign languages
1998 11 (Year 5) In 1998 the starting age was raised from 10 to 11 as part of the National Core Curriculum Yes. The figures for the academic year 1996/7 were: Year 1, age 6-7: 16% of all children (19,859) Year 2: 23% (26,815) Year 3: 41% (49,034) Year 4: 94% (112,655) Year 5: 95% (approximately 114,000) 1, 2 or 3 hours per week. Numbers vary but tend to increase over the years. There are 35 teaching weeks per year, so 35-105 hours per year
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/hungary.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:42:10
See above for student numbers. For teachers, no statistics are available, but 60% are retrained teachers (exteachers of Russian and other subjects) The children's normal class teacher (not very frequent) A specialist teacher of English who works in only one school (over 60%, estimated) A specialist teacher of English who visits different schools to give lessons (not typical) An established primary teacher who has passed a local test or exam in English. (The school decides. The Hungarian State Language Proficiency Exam, intermediate level, is expected). A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level. A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school, but who is willing to work in a primary school. Yes and no. There is retraining of teachers. Most retrained teachers have tenure Up to Grade 5, age 11 (official start age), schools can use what they want. The National Curriculum from Grade 5 gives a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, listing, e.g., topic areas, functions, skills. Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international), provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have had official clearance or approval. (Parents have to pay for textbooks in all subjects.)
Nationwide, are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers?
Most typical are international published coursebooks. But also: Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources Locally published coursebooks
French and German. German is popular.
No. There has been a recent change (the raising of the official starting age from 10 to 11). Back to the top of page
No data are available, but there are some Under 1% (estimate)
Not stated
Not stated
No
Yes
40% of school children (estimate)
The belief that an early start is an advantage
Iceland - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Iceland
q
Yes
Autumn 1999 9/10 (Grade 5) Until 1999 EYL started in Grade 7
No
Grades 5-7: 2 x 40minute lessons/week
Not stated
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/iceland.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:42:23
The children's normal teacher A specialist teacher who works in only one school A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school A teacher with pre-service training from a college or university and a qualification to teach English at primary level A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary level but who is willing to work in a primary school Any teacher who has a certificate from the University's College of Education No. Pre- and in-service education is in place to improve the situation. There is a general description of EYL aims but no specific content advice There is an officially approved list of published materials, and teachers may choose any of these within their budget. A locally published book International published coursebooks Danish, from Grade 7, age 12
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved?
No
No

No
No
India - Goa - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
India - Goa
q
Yes
1981 7/8 (Standard 3) No
No
5 x 35minute periods per week
2,811 teachers 98,416 students
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/india-goa.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:42:31
The class teacher (100%) A qualified primary teacher with the inservice training programme in English Yes
There is a detailed specification of content There is only one approved book that is published specially for schools in this region. No other choice is allowed. Locally produced coursebooks Konkani and Marathi
None
No, very few
No
No
India - Gujarat - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
India - Gujarat
q
Yes
1981 10/11 (Standard 5) No
Not stated
60 hours per year (approximately) = 4-6 x 30minute sessions per week x 20 working weeks Over 40,000 teachers Over 20,000,000 students
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/india-gujarat.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:42:41
The class teacher (40%) A specialist teacher working in a single school (10%) Someone who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in several schools (40%) (Remainder not stated) An established primary teacher who has passed a local test in English No
Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved?
There is a fairly detailed outline of suitable content and a teacher's manual There is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the region Original materials devised by teachers themselves Locally published coursebooks None
No
Yes
10%
What differences in EYL provision exist from public sector primary schools? What materials do they use for EYL?
English is the medium of instruction in private schools
Not stated
No
Is there private tuition for primary age children? how many Young Learners are involved? What is the typical starting age for private tuition? Why do parents use private tutors?
Yes
10%
Because they do not consider public school English education to be satisfactory
India - Maharashtra - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
India - Maharashtra
q
Yes
Not stated 10/11 (Standard 5) No
No
80 hours per year (160 x 30minute periods = 5 periods per week for 32 teaching weeks) 100,000 teachers (approximately) over 2,000,000 students
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/india-maharashtra.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:42:55
The class teacher (100%) A teacher with pre-service training in EYL Yes
There is a detailed specification of content (teacher's manual) There is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in this region, but teachers are also free to use other supplementary and supporting material Original material devised by teachers themselves Lesson materials adapted from several published sources Locally published coursebooks None
There is a curriculum committee working on changes in the curriculum
Yes
35%
None. The curriculum pattern is uniform for public and private schools.
Not stated
No
Yes
70%
Not before that of compulsory education
To strengthen their children's study habits
India - West Bengal - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
India - West Bengal

q q q q
Yes
1999 7/8 (Grade 3) EYL was first introduced for Grade 6 (age 11/12) in 1984 In the private sector schools in urban areas teach English from kindergarten stage (age 3) 3.3 hours a week (delivered as 5 x 40minute lessons) over a year of 25 teaching weeks Not stated
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The class teacher (70% approximately) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English An established primary teacher who has passed a local test in English School Leaving (secondary) exam with English as a compulsory subject A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or unversity and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level A university graduate, with or without training No
There is a detailed specification of content with, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be used in teaching There is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in this country. No other choice is allowed. Locally produced materials None
No
No information available at this time

Indonesia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Indonesia
q q q q
Yes
1994 9/10 (Primary Year 4) No
No
90 minutes/week in 1 x 90-minute session. There are 40 teaching weeks/ year, approximately. It is difficult to say. In Jakarta, the capital city, there are around 200 teachers with a varied command of English.
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The class teacher (85%) A specialist teacher working in a single school (2.5%) A specialist teacher working in several schools (10%) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and works in a single school (2.5%) An established primary teacher with pre-service training in EYL An established secondary teacher who is willing to teach in a primary school No
There is a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content There is no school budget for books, so teachers must make all their own materials Original teaching materials devised by teachers Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources Locally published coursebooks Not stated
The (early) age at which English is introduced is being reconsidered Back to the top of page
Yes
5%
Different starting age, quality of teachers, teaching hours and materials
Not stated
Yes
10%
3 per week in 2 x 1.5hour lessons
Not stated
Many kinds
Yes
10%
Teaching is more intensive, more advanced and students can achieve a higher level
Israel - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Israel
q
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? When was it introduced? At what age do students begin EYL?
Yes
1989 Normally age 9/10 (Grade 4), but English can be taught in Grades 1, 2 and 3 with the permission of the English Inspectorate Not other than noted above
Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL?
Since 1992 there has been a growing trend to teach English in Grade 3, age 8/9. At present about 50% of Grade 3 students study English. This move is favoured by politicians and parents but not by the English Inspectorate. Some kindergartens are also introducing English.
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/israel.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:43:29
Grade 3: 2 hours per week Grade 4: 2-3 hours per week Grades 5 and 6: 3-4 hours per week (Each lesson is 45 minutes long and the school year runs September-June) No statistics available
A specialist teacher who works in only one school A specialist teacher who works in two schools A primary teacher with special inservice training in English language and/ or EYL methodology note A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level* A secondary teacher who is willing to work in a primary school* A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology* A native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher* * These persons must pass the same proficiency exam as the specialist teacher working in only one school.
No. Initiatives to tackle the problem are being discussed. There is a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content. There is also a national counsellor who gives in-service talks to teachers about EYL.
There is an official list of approved locally produced materials. A teacher may choose any approved materials that are within the school's budget (though in practice it is the students who buy the books). Original materials devised by teachers Lesson materials adapted from published sources Locally published coursebooks Arabic (in junior high school) for the Jewish sector; Hebrew for the Arabic sector There is public pressure, which the English Inspectorate is resisting, to start teaching English earlier.
Note These teachers have to demonstrate proficiency in a written and oral exam. The oral exam consists of an interview. The written exam includes reading comprehension, two writing tasks - one that is classroom-based and another that is expository - and a task that requires the teacher to recognise errors and explain the difficulties. The methodology course covers teaching different skills, assessment, coursebook evaluation, teaching heterogeneous classes, CALL, use of literature, etc. Back to the top of page
No
Yes
How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL? What materials do they use for EYL?
Not stated
1-2 per week
These extra lessons sometimes help students who are having difficulties.
Not stated
Yes
Not known
They believe that a knowledge of English is important and worry that their children will not know the language as well as they do
Republic of Korea - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Republic of Korea
q
Yes
March 1997 8/9 (Grade 3). Since March 1997, English has been introduced as follows: 1997 - Grade 3 only 1998 - Grades 3 and 4 1999 - Grades 3, 4 and 5 2000 - Grades 3, 4, 5 and 6 Apart from the 1997 change, no, but the teaching hours have been changed No
Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL?
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/korea.htm (1 of 5)07/12/2004 09:43:42
2 lessons per week of 40 minutes each for all grades. There are 34 teaching weeks per year, so 68 lessons in total. However reductions for Grades 3 and 4 are planned from 2001, to 34 lessons per year. The number of EYL teachers is one of the most uncertain subjects in EYL, as it has been consistently changed since English was first implemented. The total number of primary teachers of all types is 137,912. Number of students: 3,800,540. (Figures based on the Ministry of Education statistics of 1996) Normal class teachers with and without in-service training English specialised teachers who have taken a general/advanced in-service teacher training programme or a general/ advanced pre-service teacher training programme Secondary teachers of English who have graduated in an English-related subject or are qualified to teach English to secondary students and have taken a special teacher training programme that has been designed to train those graduates for primary English teaching Native speakers who are educated/ qualified to teach English to children (The Ministry of Education planned to allocate specialised teachers of English to all primary schools by 2000, but a wide variety of teachers in the categories above are working in primary schools) Those listed above
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough eligible EYL teachers?
Theoretically there are enough teachers since normal class teachers are eligible to teach EYL. However there are not enough trained and qualified teachers. There is a shortage of primary teachers in Korea in general, and this is one reason why secondary teachers of English have been allocated to teach English to primary students, after they complete a teacher training programme A detailed specification of content with word lists, structure lists and sentences to be included in the teaching In 1999 there were 16 different textbooks locally produced for Korean primary students and approved by the Ministry of Education. All of them are published with teacher's guidebook and video tapes of teachers and cassette tapes for students, and the teachers must choose and use one of them in their teaching. An approved textbook as above, but teachers may use any other supplementary materials None
A new curriculum is to be implemented, with several key points of change: The 7th National Curriculum for English announced in 1997 will be introduced from 2000 by year 2000 for the 1st and 2nd grade, 2001 for the 3rd and 4th grade, and from 2002 in the 5th and 6th grade. All English teachers in primary schools will be replaced by qualified and trained teachers who will only teach English as a subject in primary school. There will be only one national textbook to be used from 2001 in
primary schools. The teaching hours for 3rd and 4th grade students will be reduced to 40 minutes x 34 lessons/year, while 5th and 6th grade students will continue to have 68 lessons/year. The content of teaching is to be reduced by up to 30%, and more flexible numbers of vocabulary items and 2 levels of teaching (depending on students' development, general and advanced level) have been suggested.
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes?
Yes
Research reported that by 1995 more than 90% of primary pupils were learning English in some ways not only in private language schools but through TV programmes and self-help materials
How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL? What materials do they use for EYL?
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Yes
A large percentage (see above)
Not stated
There is a strong tendency for them to believe that the younger they start, the better development and attainment.
Latvia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Latvia
q
Yes
1990 (approximately) 8/9 (Year 3) There was no provision for EYL before 1990. Since September 1998 schools have been permitted to teach up to 5 lessons a week of the subject. No
3 x 40-minute classes/week are compulsory, but, as noted above, schools may teach up to 5 lessons if they wish. The general pattern is for 4 lessons/week in Year 3, and 3 lessons/ week thereafter. There are 35 teaching weeks a year.
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/latvia.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:43:51
No statistics available for teachers. There were 5,122 students in 1997/98.
The class teacher (10% approximately) A specialist teacher working in a single school (20%) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in a single school (70%) A primary teacher with in-service training in English language and/or EYL methodology A teacher with pre-service training from a college or university A secondary teacher who is willing to work in a primary school A native speaker of English (e.g., a Peace Corps volunteer) No, but problems of teacher supply are being addressed by re-qualification courses and more students at Pedagogical Institutes are taking English as a second option There is a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content Teachers may use any published materials that are within the school budget Original materials devised by teachers themselves Lesson materials adapted from published sources International published course books Local published course books (to a lesser extent). German instead of English from Year 3, but numbers are dwindling
No. In 1998 the Minister of Education announced that he would like to lower the starting age for compulsory English but critics claimed that this would aggravate the shortage of qualified English teachers.
There are many re-qualification courses run by pedagogical universities/colleges of education or equivalent, including the Faculty of Pedagogy at the University of Latvia, and one run by the British Council and the Ministry of Education. They vary a great deal, but the majority focus on language improvement through traditional course components (lots of History of English along with theoretical grammar etc.) with very little methodology, and such methodology that there is tends to be out-of-date. Also, there is no focus on teaching Young Learners. The British Council and Ministry of Education course focuses on methodology and has a YL component. Course length varies from 2-3 years, part-time, around 400 hours in total. All participants are fee-paying, though in some cases participants may get some financial assistance from their local school board. Private sector primary schools
There are some, but not a significant number 0.9%
Children usually start earlier, have specialist teachers and sometimes receive more hours of English teaching per week Not stated
No
Yes
Not stated
Probably not before mainstream education Teachers in state schools are not always qualified to teach English. Parents want to give their children an edge.
Malaysia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Malaysia
q
Yes
English has always been in the curriculum Year 1 in the National schools Year 3 in the National-type schools (where the medium of instruction is the vernacular) No
At what age do students begin EYL?
Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
Yes; English is introduced at pre-school level
8 x 30minute periods per week are given over to English in Lower Primary, 9 in Upper Primary.
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/malaysia.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:44:03
Statistics not available
The class teacher (35%) An English optionist (not a specialist) (55%) Another qualified teacher (not an optionist) (20%) An established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English An established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised test of English A primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English and/or EYL methodology A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and who is qualified to become a teacher at primary level A secondary teacher who is willing to teach in a primary school A university graduate of English No. The teacher shortage is being addressed through in-service training Teachers are given the syllabus, the curriculum specification for the year, the text book and a teacher's guide. Yes, and they must be within the school budget Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves Materials adapted by teachers from several published sources International coursebooks Locally published coursebooks Newspapers and magazines.
Who is qualified to teach EYL in the public education system?
Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough eligible EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching?
Tamil and Mandarin
No
Yes
10%
Some private schools follow the British curriculum
Not stated
Yes
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Both local and international materials are used
Yes
60%
They want their children to have a good foundation in English
Mexico - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Mexico
q
In addition to this information, please aslo read the article on teaching training for EYL in Mexico
No; however there is a number of pilot projects in progress. The information given below relates to the project underway in the state of Coahuila. September 1995 6/7 (Grade 1) None other than outlined above
When was it introduced? At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
No
3 x 50minute classes per week (approximately 12 classes per month and 120 classes per year)
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In Coahilla there are 400 teachers; 62,000 students
A specialist teacher working in one school (12%) A specialist teacher working in several schools (8%) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in a single school (45%) As above but working in several schools (35%) An established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English. (Ideally the teacher would have primary teaching experience, a high level of English and TESOL training.) No. To assist the supply of teachers COTE is offered in some states and a Self-Access Centre project has been developed. There are guidelines to control progress and lesson planning (Cuaderno de Avance Programtico y Dosificacin de Unidades) Not stated
Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves Materials adapted from several published sources International coursebooks. There is also supplementary material available to teachers in the form of story books, audio cassettes, teacher support and training materials.
Spanish from age 6 (for speakers of indigenous languages); French is occasionally taught from age 12. No
Yes
7.32%
Primary ELT is not part of the public system (with the exception of some states), whereas English is widespread in the private sector - in fact, it is probably the norm. Private school teachers tend to be better prepared. Not stated
Some, but not a significant number
30,000 (estimated)
3 per week
Not stated
Materials from international publishers
No
Netherlands - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
The Netherlands
q
Yes
1986 10/11 approximately (Primary Year 7) Yes. Before 1986 foreign language teaching started in secondary school (age 12/13). No
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A total of 100 hours during primary school education. Schools are free to decide when to start with English and how they distribute these hours over the student's school career. Many schools, however, only teach English during an hour or three-quarters of an hour a week during the last 2 years of primary education. When working like this they remain well under the compulsory 100 hours. All primary teachers are officially qualified to teach English in primary schools. All students study English (no figures beyond this given). The children's normal class teacher (95-100%) A specialist teacher of English who teaches in only one school (up to 5%) A primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English language and/or EYL methodology. (This in-service training is offered but schools tend to send their teachers only to short - and inexpensive - courses and most of the time the first choice is a computer course or Dutch as a second language.) A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level. (During the training students in most primary teacher training colleges do 1 or 2 modules of English; in some they do 3-4 and there are still a few colleges where English isn't part of the curriculum.) The emphasis in these modules is on methodology, as all students will have had English in secondary school and about 99% of them will have had it as an exam subject. A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to
work in primary schools. (In most cases this is a teacher who is a qualified primary school teacher as well.) Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? No. Officially primary school teachers are qualified to teach English, but teachers who graduated before 1986 may have had less foundation in EYL methodology. A general description of aims for EYL, but no specific advice about content Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international) provided that they are within the school budget Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources, but mainly Locally published coursebooks. (Most teachers only use coursebooks published by Dutch publishers.) None at primary level. French starts at 12; German starts at 13. Changes in the quantity of English to be covered in the teacher training curriculum are under discussion amongst teacher trainers. A single module of 40 hours is under discussion for some colleges, but (as of May 2000) there is no official agreement.
No
No
No
Pakistan - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Pakistan
q
Yes
1989 4/5 approximately (Primary Year 1) Before 1989 it was introduced in most state-owned schools from Year 6 (11-12 years) but the start age was lowered to cover all primary Year 1 students in 1989 Yes. Those who send their children to government schools have no choice, but those who can afford it send their children to private schools.
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The time varies from school to school, depending on the number of teachers available, but there is a minimum of 35 minutes per day for 6 days per week. There are 33 weeks in a school teaching year = 2hours 10 minutes per week. No statistics available. There are no special teachers of English at primary level. The children's normal class teacher (almost 100%) Any teacher who has qualified to become a primary teacher in the public sector. Such a teacher will have at least a secondary school certificate (nowadays they prefer a higher secondary school certificate). In Pakistan English is a compulsory subject until the BA and it is also compulsory for the 9 month in-service teacher training course in which teachers have to qualify. No. A number of measures were taken, e.g., university graduates were recruited for this purpose but since their selection was not in line with the general recruitment policy they could not be absorbed into the system. The government also arranged intensive inservice workshops for the teachers and this is the strategy that the government continues to follow when it has sufficient funds. At the federal level there is a detailed syllabus but then all the schools have prescribed textbooks from which the teachers have to teach hence the teachers teach English as a subject
The schools have to follow the prescribed textbook and the teachers find it easy to do that. Though the teachers are free to supplement the textbooks with any materials they like, they cannot do so because they cannot find the time. They have to finish the coursebooks. Locally published coursebooks Urdu for most children is L2 and is introduced at the same time as English, but in some parts of the country (Sindh and the North-West Frontier Province) it is introduced at Primary Year 5 (if they are learning one of the regional languages). Most of the children also learn the basics of Arabic at the same time, mostly from private tutors and learn to read the Quran by the age of 12. No
What materials are typically used? What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?
Yes
A small urban minority. At present no statistics are available. EYL provision in private schools for general education differs significantly. These schools have better qualified teachers, different books in most cases they use books and materials published internationally and a better atmosphere.
Books and materials published internationally
No
Private tuition exists, but not just for English. It is included among other subjects. No statistics exist but quite a significant number of children get private tuition Not stated
In private schools the teachers' expectations of the children are usually high and some of the students find it difficult to cope with all subjects being taught in English. The parents either have little time for their children or their own language skills do not match with the course. After all, English is only an official language and still more or less a foreign language, though a very familiar one.
Poland - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Poland
q
In addition, please refer to the article on Teaching English to Young Learners in Poland.
Yes (as an alternative to French, German or Russian)
1994 (along with the other YL languages above) 10 approximately (Grade 4) In 1994 YL languages were introduced in Grade 5. In 1999 the official starting grade was lowered to Grade 4.
At what age do students begin EYL? Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980?
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Yes. Many schools, especially in cities offer classes in English, sometimes as regular classes, sometimes as an afterschool activity (students usually, although not always, pay a nominal amount.) Sometimes college students are given EYL classes for their teaching practice. Poland is undergoing educational reform and from 2000 school directors have been given control over their budgets. Some have chosen to start EYL with children in Grades 13.
Grades 4, 5 and 6 are viewed as a unit, and 240 teaching hours spread over these 3 school years are allocated for EYL. Distribution of hours is discretionary, but there are 3 main options, involving 3 teaching hours/week for 2 of the grades and 2 teaching hours/ week for the other grade. (A teaching hour = 45 minutes) Not stated
Note: There is great variation according to whether schools are in a rural or an urban setting. A specialist teacher of English who works in only one school (the largest group) A specialist teacher of English who visits different schools to give lessons (10% approximately) A person not a qualified teacher who knows English and who works in only one school. (They may have only rudimentary English themselves.) Other: a graduate in another subject not trained as a teacher who is working as an 'unqualified' teacher of English. This is not an uncommon situation in rural areas.
A primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English language and/or EYL methodology. A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level. A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school, but who is willing to work in primary schools. A native speaker of English, who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher. Other Poland has 2 sorts of primary teacher, which complicates the situation with regard to EYL. Some teachers are qualified to teach only in Grades 13 and they do not usually teach EYL to their classes. Teachers for Grades 4 and above are university language graduates, teacher training college graduates or teachers who have graduated in another subject (Engineering etc.) and who have requalified as language teachers. These teachers are also able to teach in secondary schools. Requalification courses run for practising teachers (primary or secondary) who have graduated in another field. Entry requirements have been UCLES First Certificate in English (grade A or B) but now UCLES CAE (Certificate in Advanced English). The required course comprises methodology, including: classroom observation and teaching practice, British and American Studies, Pedagogical Grammar, Psychopedagogy. This course has a Ministry-approved syllabus and each course run has to gain Ministry approval first.
No. The plan is to upgrade existing teachers' YL teaching knowledge and skills and also to add a YL course to teacher training colleges. The Polish Ministry of Education signed a trilateral Letter of Intent with the British Council and the Goethe Institut in April 1999 stating the intention to promote the teaching of languages to YL by supporting the training of YL teachers at INSETT and PRESETT levels. This is to be achieved through regular informationsharing meetings, financial support, day release for teachers, recognition of inservice curricula and recognition of the position of teacher trainers within the framework of accreditation under preparation at that time. To date (April 2000) there has been a teacher training course in TEFL to YL of 240 hours. The participants were trainers from TT colleges, practising primary teachers who either co-operated with TT colleges as mentors or who cooperated with INSETT leaders. These participants have now graduated with an officially-recognised certificate as teacher trainers (edukators) specialising in YL. These edukators are now feeding back into the system through PRESETT and INSETT.
There is a general description of aims for EYL which includes a list of specific skills and one ability (use of bilingual dictionary) Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international) provided that they are within budget and that the materials have had official clearance or approval
International published coursebooks (the most common) Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves (but not very commonly) Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources Locally published coursebooks German (in second place to English) particularly in western Poland in areas which have German communities/close German ties. Russian is taught particularly in rural areas, where there is a shortage of other language teachers, and along parts of the Eastern border. French is not often chosen in primary schools. There is a Ministry-stated intention to lower the starting age to Grade 1 in the near future, but the precise date has not been given. At present, early years teachers would not be able to deliver such a course. Practising classroom teachers in Grades 1-3 will have to take an officially recognised requalification course and attain FCE level of English. As a preparation for this, a syllabus for the requalification course is in the process of being written (April 2000). The working team, all Polish, consist of representatives of INSETT, a British Council-trained edukator and a Goethe Institut-trained edukator. As teacher training colleges for Grades 13 do not at present prepare trainees to teach foreign languages, another college syllabus is being written to address this issue.
No
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL?
Yes
35-50% in cities; much fewer in smaller towns 2 per week
Children attending private language schools have more advanced lessons than in mainstream education and classes are smaller. The methodology used is often, though not always, more modern and classes more interactive. Additionally, the focus is much less on grammar exercises. There is more access to videos and CD materials. International coursebooks, cassettes, videos, etc.
Yes
Not stated
It can be cheaper than fees for lessons in a private language school. Parents think also that their children will progress faster than in a state school or in private classes because the teacher will focus more on their child.
Romania - English - British Council UK
Romania
q
Yes, as one option among other languages
September 1990 10/11 (Year 3) EYL was introduced for Grade 2 students in 1990, but in 1998 it was decided that the official starting grade would be Grade 3. However, English can be chosen as an optional subject starting from Grade 1. Yes; most Grade 1 students choose English as an optional subject. English is also taught in kindergartens, if a qualified teacher is available.
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Standard: 1.4 hours/week in 2 x 50minute sessions Intensive: 2.3 hours/week in 3 x 50minute sessions. There are 28 teaching weeks a year and 5 weeks for revision and evaluation. No statistics available
How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system? Who does the EYL teaching? Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system?
The children's normal class teacher An established primary teacher with a pass in a local test of English - see note A secondary teacher who is willing to work in a primary school - see note A native speaker (e.g., GAP and Peace Corps volunteers) Out of necessity, anyone with a baccalaureate diploma, who speaks English and is willing to teach
There are some teacher supply issues, though no significant steps have been taken to address them. Salaries are very low in teaching and most graduates choose other, better paid jobs. Not stated
What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? What materials are typically used? What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?
Not stated
Not stated French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, Japanese. The starting age is the same as for English. No
Primary teachers are graduates of pedagogical high schools who may choose to take a basic course in methodology. They are also expected to do classroom observation and teaching practice. At the end of schooling they take a language exam based on the school curriculum (other than the baccalaureate) and are expected to teach one lesson for evaluation. If they are successful, they are accredited to teach at primary level for 2 years only. There are no regulations as far as they are concerned at the end of the 2 years. There is an initiative to train primary teachers in special colleges, but it hasn't been implemented yet. There are no special qualifications for one level or another. So any English Faculty graduate who has taken courses in Psychology, Education and Teaching Methodology is entitled to teach English at any level. Most teachers who teach in lower secondary school (Grades 5 to 8) also teach in primary school.
No
No
Yes
Not stated
Not significantly before mainstream education
To help their children do well at school; to help them develop faster than in the school programme; to teach their children English (if it is not offered at school); sometimes to maintain face in the community
Russia - English - British Council UK
Russia
q
No, but schools may introduce English if they meet certain conditions
English has been officially allowed in all schools since 1992, but specialised English language schools have existed since 1957 6/7 (Grade 1) or 7/8 (Grade 2) in both specialised schools and ordinary schools that are approved to teach English In specialised schools English was originally introduced at Grade 3; this was then lowered to Grade 2 No official data are available
Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980?
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There are 30 teaching weeks per year in Grade 1 and 32 weeks per year in Grades 2-4. Grade 1: 60 lessons per year; Grades 2-4: 96 lessons per year In specialised schools Grade 4 teaches English for 128 lessons per year. Grade 1 lessons last 35 minutes; Grade 2-4 lessons 40 minutes.
There are no official statistics for EYL teachers. The total number of EL teachers is 67,290. Secondary teachers work at the same time in primary schools. In 1997 EYL students totaled 1,290,705 in Grades 1-4. Not stated A teacher with pre-service training at a college or university and who is qualified to teach English at secondary school. (Some pedagogical colleges have opened faculties for training young learners teachers specifically.) A secondary teacher with in-service training who is willing to work in a primary school (in-service training is required) A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in teaching methodology and education can teach English at both primary and secondary level (in-service training is required) A native speaker (e.g., Peace Corps volunteer) No. Schools sometimes have to hire people who are qualified to work in other professions. Special in-service courses are organised for this category of teacher.
Who does the EYL teaching? Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system?
There is a detailed outline of content, goals, topic areas, word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to concentrate on. A number of textbooks with guidelines for teachers have been recently published. Teachers can use any materials they choose, but the authorities will pay only for local materials that have official approval by the Ministry of Education. International courses for primary level are available if the parents pay for the textbooks. Teachers may also devise their own materials. German (255,251 students), French (89,876), Spanish and other languages (12,989). The starting age is 6/7 years. There is a discussion about introducing EYL as a compulsory subject in a 12year school. (At the moment primary and secondary cycles run to 11 years. The new 12-year school will be introduced in 2000.) Back to the top of page
Yes
1%
They have their own curricula, which may exceed those of publicly maintained schools, and they may increase the number of hours per school year allocated for EYL
Not stated
They exist but no official statistics are available
Yes
Not stated
There is a growing need to learn English in Russia. Parents want their children to begin learning it at an earlier age than the public school system permits.
Slovenia - English - British Council UK
Slovenia
q
Yes
New syllabuses for all subjects in new 9year primary schools were approved in autumn 1998 and are being introduced in 45 schools from 1999/2000. Since 1999 it has been 10/11 (Year 5). In 2002/03 schools will start teaching English to students from age 8/9. In 1983 the official syllabus introduced optional FL in the early years. This led to optional classes growing rapidly within the public school system, although EYL is taught as a compulsory subject only from age 10/11.
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Yes. English is taught as part of the ongoing Teaching Foreign Languages at Lower Primary Level (TFLLPL) project, involving students aged 8/9 from 30 schools and approximately 50 teachers. EYL in-service workshops are also open to teachers outside the project. English is also taught in Grade 1 as part of the ongoing Teaching EYL within the Wanbach Pilot (TEWP) scheme, involving 3 primary schools.
In the TFLLPL project: 1-2 hours per week (35-70 hours/year) in 45minute lessons. In the TEWP scheme: 5 hours per week (175 hours/year). In the TFLLPL project: 2,100 (approximately). In the TEWP scheme: 35. The number of students learning English at ages 8-10 may be 6,000. The class teacher (10%) A specialist teacher working in one school (70%) Somewho who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in several schools (20%) A university graduate in English language and literature No, see note
Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? What materials are typically used?
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Hungarian and Italian in regions bordering with Hungary and Italy in Year 1 as part of bilingual education The new syllabus for English at primary school (ages 8/9 to 14 of the new 9-year elementary school) was officially approved in Autumn 1998. How the new curricula will be implemented is currently under discussion.
Note Regional INSETT seminars are organised for teachers already teaching English in public primary schools at ages 11-14. This training, however, is unsystematic and does not lead to any specialisation or specialism. A new department opened in 1998/99 in the Faculty of Education in Ljubljana offering a specialisation in EYL to future and current primary teachers. The modular programme covers three academic years and consists of 750 hours of training, of which 615 hours are of FL development and 135 didactics in teaching EYL. The implementation phase of the new curricula is currently under discussion. INSETT trainers consisting of 'study group leaders' and some teachers involved in the TFLLPL pilot project, when and if properly trained, might become EYL trainers.
No
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How much English do they typically offer?
Yes
Not stated
2 per week
Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL?
With very few exceptions neither parents, headteachers nor teachers perceive any conflict at the moment. Since unofficial EYL has increased drastically in the last 3-4 years, its effect on mainstream primary school teaching has not yet been investigated. That said, there appears to be not much difference between EYL in the private sector and the unofficial EYL taking place in the public schools. Some providers work in both sectors, being private concerns contracted to teach English by public school headteachers at the expense of the school or of the parents. In the private sector children tend to be younger, some as young as 5 or 6. International coursebooks
No
South Africa - English - British Council UK
South Africa
q
Yes
Over 50 years ago 6 (Year 1) as a subject; 10 (Year 5) as a medium Not stated
Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL? How many EYL teachers and students are there in the public education system?
Yes. Most pre-school nurseries focus on English to prepare children for English medium schools. Not stated
Not stated
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The class teacher (50%) A specialist teacher working in a single school (50%) An established primary teacher with preservice training at college or university Yes, thanks to pre-service training
Who is eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recruit enough EYL teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? What materials are typically used?
There is a fairly detailed description of suitable content Yes, and within the school's budget
Lesson materials devised by teachers themselves Materials adapted by teachers from several published sources International coursebooks Locally published coursebooks Afrikaans from age 6
No
Yes
Approximately 10%
There are no significant differences
What imported materials do they use for English?
Not stated
No
No
Spain - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Spain
q
Yes
September 1990 8/9 (Year 3) None other than those stated here
Yes
Ages 8-12: 3 x 1hour sessions a week (90 hours per school year) No statistics available
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A specialist teacher who works in only one school A specialist teacher who works in several schools (rare except in some country areas) A graduate of a primary school teacher training college A secondary teacher who is willing to work in a primary school Note: There are at present 94 British trained infant and primary teachers working in public infant schools on a bilingual education project.
For the present yes, but supply would not be enough to keep up with demand if English were to be introduced at age 6 and made more widely available at age 3. (There is a programme of language improvement offered to teachers, but it is voluntary.) There is a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content. There is also a general guideline laid down for all primary schools and this contains a chapter on foreign language teaching (e.g., that the methodology should focus on teaching communicative skills, that the topics should be linked to those normally studied in primary schools, that the classroom should be activity-based). There is an officially approved list of both locally and internationally produced material. The head of department chooses the books to be used, within budget limitations. Generally a series of coursebooks will then be in use for 4-5 years.
International and local published coursebooks (though the latter are less common now than they were in the mid 1990s). Teachers seldom have the level of English and knowledege of method required to produce their own materials and to adapt lesson materials adapted from published sources In theory schools can choose between English and French, but in practice most parents insist that English be taught. There are plans to reduce the official starting age to 6, and to extend the Ingls precoz (Early English) programme. The main problem this will present will be finding teachers with a sufficient knowledge of English to teach this age. There is a generally held belief that the younger the child, the lower the level of English the teacher needs.
Note Several years ago Spain introduced an Education Reform Act redefining the ages of primary school education. Children were to make the transfer to secondary schools at the age of 11+ instead of 14. This left schools with the problem of what to do with primary teachers and 'specialists' who were not qualified to teach in secondary schools. One of the measures adopted was the Ingls precoz programme whereby many of these teachers were retrained to teach English in infant classes. There are now many schools where infants are having between 1 and 3 hours of English a week. In addition, the British Council signed an agreement with the Spanish Government 3 years ago whereby 47 (now 98) British teachers were contracted to teach in Spanish infant state schools, the idea being that they would follow the British Council school bilingual curriculum. The project is proving very successful. Note Teachers are trained at primary school teacher training colleges, and those who choose the speciality of English are in theory trained to teach English in primary. There is no language exam as such. However, in order to become what is known as a functionario (civil servant) and have a job for life, teachers need to sit an official state exam (Oposiciones). This takes place every year or second year. It is a theoretical written exam. Those teachers who pass go to the practical exam where they are given the choice of 2 themes chosen at random from 25. They have to demonstrate the practical applications of the themes to the classroom. The third part of the exam is the accumulation of points that teachers get from attending recognised MEC methodology courses. The number of teachers who pass the Oposiciones each time is dependent on the number of places that
officially are considered to be available in each area. Teachers who get the highest points are able to choose the school they work in. Note A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school, but who is willing to work in a primary school, must do the Oposiciones to get a place in a primary school. Back to the top of page
Yes, private or semi-private (i.e., grantaided) schools run by religious orders Not stated
English is offered on and outside the curriculum. English used to be offered at an earlier age in private schools. Now that the starting age for EYL in public schools has been set at 8, the private sector is seeking to maintain its lead by introducing English even earlier. Not stated
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English is typically offered?
Yes
Not stated
3 per week
Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL?
For children attending (for example) the British Council evening school the methodology is different with a greater focus on learning the language for communication purposes, less translation, no direct focus on teaching grammar, and very little importance placed on exams for 8-11 year olds In the better schools much of the material is produced in-house. In private academies, where many of the teachers may be non-qualified native speakers or Spanish-trained teachers with poor English or Spanish speakers with good English but little classroom competence, standard commercially available materials are used. The ease of use of the teacher's book often determines which coursebook is selected.
Yes
Not stated
Very often 6, and nearly always with a native English speaker chosen by the parents Partly because they want their children to learn English; partly because they want them to get ahead; and partly because it is the 'lite' thing to do.
Sri Lanka - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Sri Lanka
q
Yes
In the 1930s Grade 1 and 2: Activity-based oral English. Grade 3 (age 7/8): More formal study with a textbook begins. English was introduced in Grade 3 in 1991. In 1999 the official starting age was lowered to Grade 1. Yes. English is taught in nursery schools (especially in urban areas) and in international schools from age 3/4. Grade 3: 5 x 30minute lessons per week (80 hours per year). Grade 4 onwards: 5 x 40minute lessons per week (140 hours per year).
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No statistics are available, though it is estimated that there may be 400,000+ students in each grade level A specialist teacher working in one school (80%) A specialist teacher working in several schools (5%) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in one school (1%) As above but working in several schools (10%) An established primary teacher with a pass in a local test of English An established primary teacher status with a pass in an internationally recognised test of English A primary teacher who has successfully completed an in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology A qualified teacher with pre-service training at a college or university A secondary teacher who is willing to teacher in a primary school A university graduate in English No. The Government intends to open new teacher training colleges. There is a fairly detailed specification of content, listing topic areas, functions and skills There is only 1 approved book and this is published specially by the Ministry of Education Locally produced materials None
What materials are typically used? What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?
New Grade 3-5 textbook materials are in preparation in a project supported by DFID and the British Council. Grade 3 books were trialled in one province from January 2000 and will be used islandwide from January 2001. The single text book policy will change shortly since there is a World Bank project for the general upgrading of educational publishing that will result in open market competition in text books from about 2003. Back to the top of page
Yes
5-30%
They are English medium schools
Not stated
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer?
Yes, 2 British Council institutes
Less than 1%
Not stated
Is there any perceived conflict between public school and private language school provision in EYL? What materials do they use for EYL?
Not stated
Not stated
Yes
60-90%
Often before mainstream education
Parents understand that English is the universal language and that their children need to be able to use it
Sudan - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Sudan
q
Yes
1990 10 (Form 5) The starting age was raised from 11 to 12 (Year 1 General Secondary) in 1971, before it was reduced to 10 in 1990 No
Forms 5/6: 3hours per week (180 working days, each with 30 minutes of EYL, make for 90 hours of English a year)
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A specialist teacher working in one school (20%) A person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in one school (80%) An established primary teacher with a pass in English at Sudanese School Certificate level An established primary teacher with two years of in-service training after secondary school An established teacher with preservice training at a college or university and a qualification to become a teacher of English at primary level. (Within the new educational policy this is the kind of teacher now being prepared at college level to join the profession from 2000.) No. New colleges with ELT departments are being established to cover the 26 states in Sudan. There are teacher's guide books
Yes. There is only 1 approved book and this is published specially for schools in this country. No other choice is allowed. Locally published coursebooks None, but French is introduced at age 15 (first year of secondary education) The recruitment of all teachers from faculties of education. A study of the backwash effects of the EYL final exam is well underway.
Yes
5%
The starting age (6 years). The materials.
Materials are locally prepared by schools and Sudanese NGOs. International coursebooks are used in international schools and in some NGO schools
Yes, but they are all in Khartoum
Approximately 5%
6 per week
Students at private schools usually score higher in the national final exam. Teaching is almost always aimed at the exam, which emphasises structure and grammar, though this is under review. Not stated

Yes, mainly in Khartoum
Approximately 3%
Not before mainstream education
There is nationwide discontent with standards in public schools, which are seen as having fallen over the years
Taiwan - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Taiwan
q
Yes, in selected areas from 1998 Taipei City, Tainan, Kaoshung City. From 2001 it will be Taiwan-wide. See above - from 1998 in selected areas Various, pre-2001 (see below). Official start for the 2001 National Curriculum will be 5th Grade. In 1993 the Ministry of Education allowed schools to teach English in extracurricular activities. Since then public primary schools have offered English classes if there are teachers available. (But there has been no control of teacher quality.) In 1994 the National English Curriculum was announced. The official start for English was in Junior High School. In Autumn 1998 the 3 cities mentioned above were the first in Taiwan to introduce EYL as an official part of the
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/taiwan.htm (1 of 5)07/12/2004 09:46:17
curriculum in public education. Taipei City taught from the 3rd Grade, Tainan City from the 2nd Grade and Kaoshung City from the 5th Grade. Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL? Yes
From 2001 it will be 80 minutes per week x 2 semesters of 18 weeks each = 48hours teaching per year Not stated
The normal class teacher A specialist teacher of English who works only in one school A person, not a qualified teacher, who knows English and works in only one school A person, not a qualified teacher, who knows English and visits different schools to give lessons. (Usually this person is working for private language institutes. S/he can be an English major, but without a teaching certificate.) An established primary teacher who has passed a local test or exam in English. (The Ministry of Education has authorised a local testing centre, LTTC, to develop an English proficiency test including written and oral tests - to screen future English teachers. A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in Education or Teaching methodology. (If a college graduate passes the abovementioned exams, s/he will be eligible to register on the English Teacher Training Programme.)
Yes. The Ministry of Education has estimated the number of EYL teachers and set up teacher training programmes for them. In fact, there will be enough EYL teachers available, but there is no guarantee that every school will be able to recruit enough EYL teachers (especially in rural areas). There is a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, with suggested word lists Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international), provided they are within budget and that the materials have official clearance or approval Lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources International published coursebooks Locally published coursebooks None
In 2001 children Taiwan-wide will start learning English in the 5th Grade Back to the top of page
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Yes
Not stated
Not stated
In private schools children start learning English at an earlier age. The schools offer more hours of English. Some private schools recruit native speakers. They use international published textbooks, locally produced textbooks and material developed by teachers
Yes
More than 80% of 5th Grade children in Taipei City Usually before mainstream education
In general parents want their children to be able to speak English fluently, or at least parents want their children to outperform other children in English when they enter secondary school. (This means that they have a better chance of getting in to one of the more prestigious high schools and colleges in the future.)
Tunisia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Tunisia
q
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum in public sector primary schools? Are any changes in the provision of EYL planned or anticipated?
No
The age at which public school students begin English was reduced by 2 years in 1995/5 (from 15 to 13 years of age). There is now discussion of reducing it by one more year, i.e. to age 12, which is the beginning of secondary school.
No, but there are some
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/tunisia.htm (1 of 2)07/12/2004 09:46:36
Tunisia - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
No
There are probably informal tutor-led groups run by teachers/ inspectors of English, but it is impossible to say whether this is a widespread practice Not known
Not stated
Not stated
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/tunisia.htm (2 of 2)07/12/2004 09:46:36
Turkey - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Turkey
q
Yes
1998 9 (Primary Year 4) Until 1998 EYL was offered at age 11 for 1 school year exclusively for some special state schools as well as private schools No
Grades 4/5: 2hours per week Grade 6 upwards: 3hours per week The teaching year is 36 weeks, so 72108 hours per year.
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/turkey.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:46:45
Not stated
A specialist teacher of English who works in only one school (mainly) A person not a qualified teacher who knows English and who works in only one school A teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school, but who is willing to work in primary schools (mainly) A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in Education or Teaching methodology No. Steps are being taken to increase the number of incoming students to preservice training universities by offering them financial incentives (state scholarships) and/or employment opportunities at graduation. There is a fairly detailed outline of suitable content with, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included in the teaching. There is an officially-approved list of locally published materials, and teachers may choose any of these, within their budget. Locally published coursebooks. German and French are taught from age 11 No

Yes, in big cities
3-4%
Children start earlier, in pre-school year (age 5). They have more hours of English per week Grade 1: 3-4 hours per week; Grade 2: 6-8 hours per week; Grade 3 upwards: 8-10 hours per week. Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international) provided that they are within budget and that the materials have had official clearance or approval.
Not for children
Yes
No data available
No data available
To help children pass their courses
United Arab Emirates - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
United Arab Emirates

q
Yes
Not stated 6 (Grade 1) Not stated
No
4 x 40 minutes per week
No statistics available
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/uae.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:46:58
A specialist teacher working in one school (100%) A primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English and/or EYL methodology A teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level A teacher who is qualified to teach English at secondary level but who is willing to work in a primary school A university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology Yes
Teachers are supplied with a coursebook that has an accompanying course guide Yes. There is only one approved book for use in schools. Original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves Locally published course materials What teachers do in the classroom depends very much on their individual supervisors. Some are encouraged to improvise, others are told to go by the book.
None
Not stated
Yes
Not known
Different starting age, teaching hours, material
Not stated
Is there a significant number of these schools? How many Young Learners take private language school classes? How many hours of English do they typically offer? Is there any perceived conflict between state and private provision in EYL? What materials do they use for EYL?
Yes
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
In general internationally published materials
Yes
Not stated
Probably not before mainstream education Some use them because the schools that their children attend are very exams/ results-oriented. Others use them to make up for shortcomings in schools in terms of resources and inexperienced teachers.
Ukraine - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Ukraine
q
Yes
1961 - at Extensive English Learning schools 7 (Year 1) in Extensive English Learning schools; 10/11 (Year 5) No
Have any significant changes in teaching EYL taken place since 1980? Is there any widespread teaching of English before the official starting age for compulsory EYL? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL?
No
Years 1/ 2: 3hours per week (100hours per year) Years 3/4: 4hours per week (130hours per year)
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/ukraine.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:47:07
A specialist teacher working in one school (80%) A specialist teacher working in several schools (20%) An established primary teacher who has successfully completed a special inservice training course in English language and/or EYL methodology, e.g. at Kharkiv Pedagogical University A secondary teacher who is willing to teach English in a primary school No
There is detailed specification of content, with e.g. word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included in the teaching. Sources are recommended by the Ministry of Education, though schools may lack the funds to buy them. Original materials devised by the teachers themselves Materials adapted by teachers from several published sources International coursebooks Locally published coursebooks German, French, Spanish, Hebrew
Not stated

Yes
5%
Different starting age, teaching hours, materials
Not stated
Yes
5%
4-6 per week
Private schools offer more advanced lessons and have a different methodology Internationally published books - OUP, Longman, CUP
Yes
10%
So that their children can start learning English earlier and have access to more and better quality instruction
Venezuela - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Venezuela
q
No
Yes
Perhaps 20%
Private schools use imported materials, start at age 5 and offer 4 x 60minute periods of English a week US materials - OUP, Longman

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/venezuela.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:47:21
Venezuela - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK
Yes
2-3%
4 per week
Not stated
Imported materials such as Parade, (Longman)
Yes
Perhaps 2%
To make up for deficiencies in mainstream education
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/venezuela.htm (2 of 3)07/12/2004 09:47:21
Summary: EYL in public sector primary schools - English - British Council UK
Summary: EYL in public sector primary schools

More detailed information about recent and anticipated developments in EYL can be found in the individual country pages. The abbreviation N/A should be read as not applicable.
Table 1
Argentina Austria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Colombia Croatia Hungary Iceland India - Goa India - Gujarat India - Maharashtra India - West Bengal Indonesia Poland Romania Russia Slovenia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka
Table 2
Cyprus Czech Republic Ecuador Ethiopia France Greece Hong Kong Israel Korea Latvia Malaysia Mexico Netherlands Pakistan Sudan Taiwan Tunisia Turkey Ukraine UAE Venezuela
Table3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/public.htm (1 of 2)07/12/2004 09:47:42
EYL in public education (1) - English - British Council UK
Summary of EYL in public primary schools

Argentina Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum?
It is being introduced
Austria
Yes
Bahrain
Yes
Bangladesh
Yes
Brazil
No
Colombia
It is being introduced but is not widespread Not stated 11
Croatia
Yes
When was it introduced?
1998 (regionally) 1983 8
1920 9
1992 6
N/A N/A
1997 6/7
At what age do students begin 8 EYL? Is there any widespread teaching of English before official EYL begins? How many hours a week/ school year are officially allocated for EYL? How many EYL a) teachers and b) students are there in the public education system? % breakdown of how EYL teaching is supplied
No
Not stated
Yes
No
N/A
Some, in upper primary
N/A
At least 72 hours/ 1 hour/week x 35 5 hours/week x year weeks/year 32 weeks/year
44-82 hours/ year
N/A
3 x 45 minutes/ week
105-170 hours/ year
Not stated
Not stated
a. 150 b. 30,000
a. 228,000 b. 18,030,805
N/A
a. 154,543 b. 4,101,135
Not known
a. 5% b. 5% c. 10% d. 40% e. 40% (b, c, d, e are estimates)
a. 99% b. 1%
b. 100%
a. 100%
N/A
a. 100%
a. 10% b. 80% d. 10%
Who is eligible to teach EYL in h the public education system?
a, d, h
N/A
Not stated
d, e
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Nationwide are schools able to recuit enough eligible teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? 4 What materials are typically used? 5 What other foreign languages are taught?
No
Yes
Yes
No
N/A
Not stated
No
N/A
N/A
b, c
a, d
a, b, c, d, e
N/A
a, b, c, d
c, d
Spanish (if not French, Italian L1), Portuguese, French Yes Yes
None
None
N/A
None
French, German, Italian
Are any changes in EYL provision planned or anticipated?
Yes
Yes
N/A
Yes
Not stated
Back to Public index page
a) the students' regular class teacher; b) a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school; c) a specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school; d) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school; e) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school; f) other. a) an established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English; b) an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test; c) a primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology; d) a teacher who has pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level; e) a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school; f) a university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology; g) a native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher; (h). other. a) no published guidelines or syllabus; b) a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content; c) a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, e.g. listing topic areas. functions, skills; d) a more detailed specification of content, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included; e) other. 4 a) teachers have to make their own materials as there is no school budget for books; b) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget; c) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have been officially cleared or approved; d) there is an officially approved list of locally published material and teachers may choose anything on it, within their budget; e) there is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the country/region. No other choice is allowed; f) other. 5 a) original materials devised by teachers themselves; b) lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources; c) international published coursebooks; d) local published coursebooks; e) other.

Cyprus Czech Republic
Yes
Ecuador
Ethiopia
France
Greece
Hong Kong
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum? When was it introduced?
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Before 1950
1997
December 1993
50+ years ago
1989
1993
Over 50 years ago 5/6
At what age do students begin 9/10 EYL? Is there any widespread teaching of English before official EYL begins? How many hours a week/ school year are officially allocated for EYL?
No
9/10
5/6
Year 4
Yes
No
No
Some
No
Yes
3 x 40 minutes/ week x 30-35 weeks = 60-70 hours/year
3 x 40 minutes/ week = 90 lessons/year
Optional up to 70 1 lesson of 45-50 1 hour/week for hours/year (1-2 x minutes/day Primary 2 and 3; 45 minutes/week) 1.5 hours/week for Primary 4 and 5 Not stated Not stated a. 24,615 b. 602,845
3 x 45 minutes/ week x 35 weeks/ year = 80 hours/ year (approximately) a. 1,000 (approximately) b. 353,000 (approximately) (1997 figures) b. 60% c. 40%
180-210 hours/ year (approximately) in 35-minute lessons a. 7,655 b. 461,911
How many EYL a) teachers and b) students are there in the public education system?
a. 636 b. 31,353
a. 5-8,000 (estimate) b. 150,000 (estimate)
% breakdown of how EYL teaching is supplied
a. 98% b. 1% c. 1%
a, c, d
b, c, d, e, f
a. 85%
a. 45% b. 35% d. 20% (approximately) a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h
a. 53% b. 47%
Who is eligible to teach EYL in d, e, h the public education system?
d, e, g, h
a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h d
d, e
a, c
Nationwide are schools able to recuit enough eligible teachers? What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? 4 What materials are typically used? 5 What other foreign languages are taught?
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
d, e
a, b, d
c, d
a, b, c, d
a, b, e
a, b, d
None
German
Spanish, indigenous languages
Regional languages, Amharic
German, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian Yes
Not stated
None
Are any changes in EYL provision planned or anticipated?
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
a) the students' regular class teacher; b) a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school; c) a specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school; d) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school; e) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school; f) other. a) an established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English; b) an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test; c) a primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology; d) a teacher who has pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level; e) a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school; f) a university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology; g) a native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher; h) other. a) no published guidelines or syllabus; b) a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content; c) a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, e.g. listing topic areas. functions, skills; d) a more detailed specification of content, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included; e) other. 4 a) teachers have to make their own materials as there is no school budget for books; b) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget; c) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have been officially cleared or approved; d) there is an officially approved list of locally published material and teachers may choose anything on it, within their budget; e) there is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the country/region. No other choice is allowed; f) other. 5 a) original materials devised by teachers themselves; b) lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources; c) international published coursebooks; d) local published coursebooks; e) other.

Hungary Iceland India-Goa India-Gujarat IndiaMaharashtra
Yes
India-West Bengal
Yes
Indonesia
Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum? When was it introduced?
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
1998
Autumn 1999 9/10
1981 7/8
1981 10/11
Not stated 10/11
1999 7/8
1994 9/10
At what age do students begin 11 EYL? Is there any widespread teaching of English before official EYL begins? How many hours a week/ school year are officially allocated for EYL?
Yes
No
No
Not stated
No
Some, not widespread
No
1-3 hours/week = 2 x 40-minute 35-105 hours/ lessons/week year
5 x 35-minute lessons/week
60 hours/year
5 x 30 minutes/ 5 x 40-minute week = 80 hours/ lessons x 25 year weeks/year
1 x 90-minute lesson/week x 40 weeks = 60 hours/year (approximately) Not known
How many EYL a) teachers and b) students are there in the public education system?
a. No statistics available b. 324,000 (approximately) a. infrequent b. 60% c. infrequent
Not stated
a. 2,811 b. 98,416
a. over 40,000 a. 100,000 Not stated b. over 2,000,000 b. over 2,000,000
% breakdown of how EYL teaching is supplied
a, b, d
a. 100%
a. 40% b. 10% d. 40%
a. 100%
a. 70% (approximately) c. (remainder)
a. 85% b. 2% c. 10% d. 2% d, e
Who is eligible to teach EYL in a, d, e the public education system? Nationwide are schools able to recuit enough eligible teachers?
d, e, h
a, d, f
Depends on area No
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? 4 What materials are typically used? 5 What other foreign languages are taught? Are any changes in EYL provision planned or anticipated?
c, d (teacher's manual) e
d (teacher's manual) e, but also c
Yes (d)
c (most typical); also a, b, d French and German No
c, d
a, d
a, b, d
a, b, d
Danish
Konkani and Marathi No
None
None
None
Not stated
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
a) the students' regular class teacher; b) a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school; c) a specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school; d) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school; e) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school. a) an established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English; b) an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test; c) a primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology; d) a teacher who has pre-service training at college pr university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level; e) a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school; f) a university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology; (g). a native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher; (h). other a) no published guidelines or syllabus; b) a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content; c) a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, e.g. listing topic areas. functions, skills; d) a more detailed specification of content, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included; e) other. 4 a) teachers have to make their own materials as there is no school budget for books; b) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget; c) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have been officially cleared or approved; d) there is an officially approved list of locally published material and teachers may choose anything on it, within their budget; e) there is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the country/region. No other choice is allowed; f) other. 5 a) original materials devised by teachers themselves; b) lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources; c) international published coursebooks; d) local published coursebooks; e) other.

Israel Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum? When was it introduced?
Yes
Korea
Yes
Latvia
Yes
Malaysia
Yes
Mexico (a)
Netherlands
Pakistan
Yes
Only pilot projects Yes
1989
1997
1990
English has always been taught Year 1 or 3
1995
1986
1989
9/10 (normally)
8/9
8/9
6/7
10/11
4/5
Is there any widespread Yes teaching of English before official EYL begins? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL? How many EYL a) teachers and b) students are there in the public education system? % breakdown of how EYL teaching is supplied
2-4 hours/week
No
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
2 x 40 minutes/ 3-5 x 40 minutes/ 4-4.5 hours/week week x 34 weeks/ week x 35 weeks/ in 30-minute year year lessons
100 hours/year (approximately)
100 hours 2 hours 10 throughout minutes/week x primary education 33 weeks (approximately)
a. Not known b. 5,122 (approximately)
a. 400 b. 62,000 (Coahilla only)
b, c
a, b (see country page)
a. 10% b. 20% d. 70%
a. 35% b. 55% f. 20%
b. 12% c. 8% d. 45% e. 35% a
a. 95 - 100% b. up to 5%
Who is eligible to teach c, d, e, f, g (f and g must pass a EYL in the public local exam) education system?
a, c, h (see country page)
c, d, e, f, h
a, b, c, d, e, f
c, d, e
Nationwide are schools No able to recuit enough eligible teachers? What official guidelines b exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? 4 What materials are typically used? 5 What other foreign languages are taught?
d
No
No
No
No
No
No
Not stated
a, b, d
a, b, c, d
a, b, c, d, e
a, b, c, e
a, b, d
Arabic, Hebrew (if None not L1) Yes
German
Tamil, Mandarin
Spanish (if not L1), French No
None
Urdu, Arabic
Are any changes in EYL Yes provision planned or anticipated?
No
No
Yes
No
a) The information provided here is from a pilot EYL project being trialled in the state of Coahuila. a) the students' regular class teacher; b) a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school; c) a specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school; d) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school; e) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school; f) other. a) an established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English; b) an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test; c) a primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology; d) a teacher who has pre-service training at college pr university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level; e) a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school; f) a university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology; g) a native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher; h) other. a) no published guidelines or syllabus; b) a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content; c) a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, e.g. listing topic areas. functions, skills; d) a more detailed specification of content, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included; e) other. 4 a) teachers have to make their own materials as there is no school budget for books; b) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget; c) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have been officially cleared or approved; d) there is an officially approved list of locally published material and teachers may choose anything on it, within their budget; e) there is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the country/region. No other choice is allowed; f) other. 5} a) original materials devised by teachers themselves; b) lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources; c) international published coursebooks; d) local published coursebooks; e) other.

Poland Is EYL taught as an official part of the curriculum?
Yes
Romania
Yes
Russia
Slovenia
South Africa
Yes
Spain
Yes
Sri Lanka
Yes
Only if certain Yes conditions are met
When was it introduced? 1994 At what age do students 10 begin EYL? Is there any widespread Yes teaching of English before official EYL begins? How many hours a week/school year are officially allocated for EYL? How many EYL a) teachers and b) students are there in the public education system? % breakdown of how EYL teaching is supplied
240 hours spread over the 3 years of Grades 4, 5 and 6
1990 10/11
1992 6/7
1999 10/11
50+ years ago 6
1990 8/9
In the 1930s 5/6
Yes
No data available
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
1.4 - 2.3 hours/ 35-85 hours/year week x 28 weeks/ year
35-175 hours/year Not stated
90 hours/year
80 - 140 hours/ year
Not stated
a. Not known a. 2,135 Not stated b. 1.29 m (Grades b. 6,000 (estimate) 1-4)
a. No statistics available b. 400,000 (in each Grade level approximately)
b, c, d, e
Not stated
a. 10% b. 70% c. 20%
a. 50% b. 50%
b, c, f
b. 80% c. 5% d. 1% e. 10% (approximately) a, b, c, d, e, f
c, d, e, g, h
a, e, g, h
d, e, f, g
d, e, h
Nationwide are schools No able to recuit enough eligible teachers? What official guidelines c exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? 4 What materials are typically used? 5 What other foreign languages are taught?
b
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
Not stated
a, b, c, d
Not stated
a, c, d
Not stated
a, b, c, d
c, d
German, Russian
French, German, French, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish Japanese, Spanish No Yes
Hungarian, Italian Afrikaans
French
None
Are any changes in EYL Yes provision planned or anticipated?
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
a) the students' regular class teacher; b) a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school; c) a specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school; d) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school; e) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school. a) an established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English; b) an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test; c) a primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology; d) a teacher who has pre-service training at college pr university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level; e) a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school; f) a university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology; g) a native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher; h) other. 3 a) no published guidelines or syllabus; b) a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content; c) a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, e.g. listing topic areas. functions, skills; d) a more detailed specification of content, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included; e) other. 4 a) teachers have to make their own materials as there is no school budget for books; b) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget; c) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have been officially cleared or approved; d) there is an officially approved list of locally published material and teachers may choose anything on it, within their budget; e) there is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the country/region. No other choice is allowed; f) other. 5 a) original materials devised by teachers themselves; b) lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources; c) international published coursebooks; d) local published coursebooks; e) other.

Sudan Is EYL taught as a compulsory part of the curriculum? When was it introduced?
Yes
Taiwan
It is being introduced
Tunisia
No
Turkey
Yes
Ukraine
Yes
UAE
Yes
Venezuela
No
1990
1998 (in the main N/A cities) 5th Grade N/A
1998
1961
Not stated
N/A
At what age do students begin EYL? Is there any widespread teaching of English before compulsory EYL begins? How many hours a week/ school year are officially allocated for EYL?
10
10/11
N/A
No
Yes
N/A
No
No
No
N/A
90 hours/year
80 minutes/week x 2 semesters of 18 weeks = 48 hours/year No statistics available
N/A
4 x 40 minutes/ week
N/A
How many EYL a) teachers a. 15,000 and b) students are there in b. 1.125m the public education system? % breakdown of how EYL teaching is supplied
b. 20% d. 80%
N/A
Not stated
N/A
a, b, d
N/A
b. mainly d. some e, f
b. 80% c. 20% c, e
b. 100%
N/A
a, c, d Who is qualified to teach EYL in the public education system?
a, d (if they pass N/A an entrance exam for teacher training) Yes N/A
c, d, e, f
N/A
Nationwide are schools able to recuit enough eligible teachers?
No
No
No
Yes
N/A
What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching? Do EYL teaching materials have to be approved? 4
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
What materials are typically d used? 5 What other foreign languages are taught? Are any changes in EYL provision planned or anticipated?
None
b, c, d
N/A
a, b, c, d
a, d
N/A
None
N/A
German, French (from age 11) No
French, German, None Hebrew, Spanish Not stated Not stated
N/A
Yes
Yes
No
Not stated
a) the students' regular class teacher; b) a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school; c) a specialist teacher of English who gives lessons in more than one school; d) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who works in only one school; e) a person who is not a qualified teacher but who knows English and who gives lessons in more than one school
a) an established primary teacher who has passed a local test of English; b) an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test; c) a
primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English and/or EYL methodology; d) a teacher who has pre-service training at college pr university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level; e) a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school but who is willing to work in a primary school; f) a university graduate of English who has not taken courses in education or teaching methodology; g) a native speaker of English who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher; h) other
a) no published guidelines or syllabus; b) a general description of aims for EYL but no specific advice about content; c) a fairly detailed outline of suitable content, e.g. listing topic
areas, functions, skills; d) a more detailed specification of content, e.g., word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included; e) other. 4 a) teachers have to make their own materials as there is no school budget for books; b) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget; c) teachers may choose any published materials provided that they are within the school budget and that the materials have been officially cleared or approved; d) there is an officially approved list of locally published material and teachers may choose anything on it, within their budget; e) there is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in the country/region. No other choice is allowed; f) other. 5 a) original materials devised by teachers themselves; b) lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources; c) international published coursebooks; d) local published coursebooks; e) other
Summary: EYL in the private sector - English - British Council UK
Summary: EYL in the private sector

Topics
EYL in private sector primary schools
EYL in private language schools
Private tuition in EYL
More detailed information can be found in the individual country pages. The abbreviation N/A should be read as Not Applicable.
English for young learner home page
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/private.htm07/12/2004 09:48:55
EYL in private sector primary schools - English - British Council UK
Summary: EYL in private sector primary schools

Country Number of schools significant?
Yes
% of Young Learners attending them

Not stated
Differences from Materials used for public sector EYL schools

Syllabus, teaching hours N/A Not stated
Argentina
Austria Bahrain
No Yes
N/A 6%
N/A
Earlier start; English Not stated medium English medium Non-government and some imported Not stated
Bangladesh
Yes
10% estimated
Brazil
Yes
No statistics available 80% N/A Not stated
No public sector provision Not stated N/A
Colombia Croatia Cyprus
Yes No Yes
Not stated N/A
Teaching hours; Not stated curriculum; materials N/A N/A
Czech Republic Ecuador
No Yes
N/A 30% approximately
Not stated Teaching hours. Some schools teach other subjects in English.
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/private1.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:49:10
Ethiopia France
No Yes
N/A Not stated
N/A Most follow same curriculum; a foreign language may be introduced earlier Better trained teachers; smaller classes; more resources; but same curriculum Most are English medium No data available N/A N/A English medium No difference uniform curriculum No information available
N/A Same as public schools
Greece
Yes
5% approximately
Not stated
Hong Kong
Yes
10% approximately
Not stated
Hungary Iceland India - Goa India - Gujarat India Maharashtra
Some No No Yes Yes
Under 1% N/A N/A 10% 35%
No data available N/A N/A Not stated Not stated
India - West Bengal No information

available
No information available 5%
No information available
Indonesia
Yes
Starting age; quality Not stated of teachers; teaching hours; materials N/A Not stated N/A Not stated
Israel Korea
No Not stated
N/A Not stated
Latvia
Very few
0.9%
Earlier start; specialist teachers; sometimes more teaching hours Some follow UK curriculum
Not stated
Malaysia
Yes
10%
Not stated
Mexico
Yes
7.32%
Primary ELT is not Not stated part of state sector but is widespread in private sector; teachers tend to be better prepared N/A Better qualified teachers, different books N/A N/A N/A Internationally published materials
Netherlands Pakistan
No Yes
N/A Urban minority but no statistics available N/A N/A 1%
Poland Romania Russia
No No Yes
N/A N/A
Curriculum; Not stated teaching hours may be greater N/A None English offered in and outside the curriculum; earlier start English medium N/A Not stated Not stated
Slovenia South Africa Spain
No Yes Yes
N/A 10% approximately Not stated
Sri Lanka
Yes
5-30%
Not stated
Sudan
Yes
5%
Earlier starting age; Locally prepared; materials international schools may use international coursebooks Not stated N/A Earlier start, more hours Starting age; teaching hours; materials Starting age; teaching hours; materials Not stated N/A Local and international Not stated
Taiwan Tunisia Turkey
Not stated No Yes, in big cities
Not stated N/A 3-4%
Ukraine
Yes
5%
UAE
Yes
No data available
Not stated
Venezuela
Yes
20% estimated
Earlier start (English Imported material is not taught in the from USA public sector)
Private tutoring home page
EYL in private language schools - English - British Council UK
Summary: EYL in private language schools

Country Number of schools significant? % of public school students attending them How much English is taught? Materials used Differences for EYL from EYL provision in public schools
More advanced Mainly imported classes; different from UK methodology N/A N/A
Argentina
Only in Buenos Not stated Aires
3-10 hours/ week
Austria Bahrain
No Yes
N/A 15-20%
N/A 3-4 hours/ week
Students attain a UK and US materials higher level of English competence Students' English is more advanced Imported textbooks
Bangladesh
Yes
5% estimated
4 hours/ week
Brazil
Yes
Not stated
2.5 hours/ week Not stated 2 hours/ week
N/A (there is no Imported UK and public provision) US textbooks Not stated Not stated
Colombia Croatia
Yes Yes
10% Not stated
Better conditions Local and international materials No significant differences Various, mostly imported from UK
Cyprus
Yes
5% approximately
2-3 hours/ week
Czech Republic
Yes
Under 20%
2 hours/ week
Students' English is more advanced Different methodology, more advanced English Not stated
Same as in public schools
Ecuador
Yes
10% approximately
5 hours/ week
International materials
Ethiopia France
No Yes
N/A Not stated
N/A Up to 6 hours/ week
N/A
More advanced In-house, classes; published and methodology authentic more likely to be UK-based Children start earlier and become more advanced; facilities are better Different methodology Variety of local and international materials
Greece
Yes
80% approximately
3-6 hours/ week
Hong Kong
Only the British 2,060 EYL students 2.67 hours/ Council per term week x 9 weeks (BC school) No No No No N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
BC materials
Hungary Iceland India - Goa India Gujarat
N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
No India Maharashtra
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
India - West Bengal
Indonesia
Yes
10%
3 hours/ week 1-2 hours/ week
Not stated
Many kinds
Israel
Yes
Not stated
Not stated These lessons provide support for students with difficulties Not stated N/A Not stated Not stated N/A Both local and international materials International materials N/A N/A
Korea Latvia Malaysia
Yes No Yes
Up to 90% N/A Not stated
Not stated N/A Not stated
Mexico
No
30,000 (estimate)
3 hours/ week N/A N/A 2 hours/ week
Not stated
Netherlands No Pakistan Poland

No Yes
N/A N/A 35 - 50% in cities; fewer in smaller towns
N/A N/A
Lessons may be International more advanced; course books, methodology cassettes, videos more modern; teaching more interactive Not stated Not stated N/A Not stated
Romania Russia
No Yes
N/A No statistics available Not stated
N/A Not stated
Slovenia
Yes
2 hours/ week Not stated
No differences on the whole Not stated
International materials Not stated
South Africa No
Not stated
Spain
Yes
Not stated
3 hours/ week
Different, more communicative methodology Not stated Students perform better; teaching is exam-oriented Children start English earlier; more hours of English are offered N/A N/A More advanced lessons; different methodology Not stated
In-house and international materials Not stated Not stated
Sri Lanka Sudan
Yes Yes, but all in Khartoum
Less than 1% 5% approximately
Not stated 6 hours/ week
Taiwan
Yes
Not stated
Not stated
International and local course books and inhouse materials
Tunisia Turkey Ukraine
No No Yes
N/A N/A 5%
N/A N/A 4-6 hours per week
N/A N/A International materials
UAE
Yes
Not stated
Not stated
International materials Imported materials
Venezuela
Yes
2-3% estimated
4 hours/ week
Not stated
Private tuition in EYL - English - British Council UK
Summary: Private tuition in EYL
Country
Is there a significant amount of private tuition?

Yes
% of children having private tuition in English
Typical starting age
Argentina
Not stated
To make up for shortcomings of public system N/A N/A
Austria Bahrain Bangladesh
No No Yes
N/A N/A Not stated
N/A N/A
Not usually before To make up for mainstream education shortcomings of public system N/A N/A N/A N/A
Brazil Colombia Croatia
No No Yes
N/A N/A Not stated
Usually before They believe they offer mainstream education better teaching Usually before Public provision is not mainstream education considered to be enough N/A N/A
Cyprus
Yes
Not stated
Czech Republic
No
N/A
Ecuador Ethiopia
No Yes
N/A 2%
N/A
N/A
Not usually before Because of the mainstream education importance they attach to English as the medium of secondary and tertiary education May be before They want their mainstream education children to be bilingual May be younger than To get a head start; to mainstream education make up for shortcomings of public schools; convenience; access to a native speaker Same as for the public To help children get system through their homework Before mainstream education They believe that an early start is an advantage N/A N/A To make up for shortcomings of public system
France
A little
Not stated
Greece
Yes
10% approximately
Hong Kong
Yes
10% (estimate)
Hungary
Yes
40% (estimate)
Iceland India - Goa
No No
N/A N/A 10%
N/A N/A Before mainstream education
India - Gujarat Yes
India Maharashtra India - West Bengal
Yes
70%
Not before To strengthen their mainstream education children's study habits No information available No information available
Indonesia
Yes
10%
To give children access to more intensive and advanced teaching To make sure that their children know English as well as they do To get an early start
Israel
Yes
Not stated
Korea Latvia
Yes Yes
Many Not stated
Not stated
Probably not before To make up for mainstream education shortcomings of the public system; to give their children an edge Before mainstream education To give their children a good foundation in English N/A N/A To help children in private schools meet the expectations of the schools where all subjects are taught through the medium of English
Malaysia
Yes
60%
Mexico Netherlands Pakistan
No No Yes
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
No statistics available N/A
Poland
Yes
Not stated
Usually before Lower fees than in a mainstream education private language school; more personalised attention Not significantly before mainstream education To give their children an edge; when English is not offered on the school curriculum; prestige
Romania
Yes
Not stated
Russia
Yes
Not stated
May be before To give their children mainstream education an start than is possible in school N/A Not stated Very often at 6 years of age N/A Not stated To give their children an edge; prestige
Slovenia South Africa Spain
No No Yes
N/A Not stated Not stated
Sri Lanka
Yes
60-90%
Often before Competition. Parents mainstream education see English as the universal language. Not before Out of discontent with mainstream education the public system Usually before To give their children a mainstream education head start in getting into top schools, colleges Not stated Not stated
Sudan
Yes
3% approximately
Taiwan
Yes
Over 80% of 5th Grade in Taipei City
Tunisia
Possibly, but not widespead Yes
Not stated
Turkey
No data available
No data available
To help their children pass their courses So that their children begin English earlier and have more hours of teaching; the quality is better
Ukraine
Yes
10%
UAE
Yes
Not stated
Probably not before To prepare their mainstream education children for school examinations; to make up for shortcomings of the public system
Venezuela
Yes
2% (estimate)
To make up for shortcomings of the public system; the quality of teaching is better
EYL Survey - Questionnaire - English - The British Council United Kingdom
Questionnaire
1. Country and/or region to which the answers refer. 2. Name of British Council recipient/co-ordinator of answers to this questionnaire 3. Name and professional role of the person actually providing the responses (if different from 2 above). Please also supply contact address/e-mail address for Shelagh Rixon to use for clarifications and queries. State school provision 4. Is there any EYL teaching in as part of the curriculum in compulsory state education? If YES, please go to Q5. If NO, go to Q18. 5. How many years ago, approximately, was EYL introduced as an official part of the curriculum in compulsory state education? (If you know the exact date, please give it). 6. At the moment, when does EYL start as an official part of the curriculum ? (Please express your answer as a Year/Grade of schooling and add the age range that this represents, e.g. 'Primary Year Three, about 7 - 8 years of age'). 7. Has the age for starting EYL been changed since 1980? 8. Is there any widespread teaching of English to YL in public education at a stage BEFORE the official starting stage? 9. Please indicate the number of hours per school year officially allocated for EYL. If there is a difference in provision for different grades, please give details. 10. Please indicate how these EYL hours are distributed (e.g. 'There are 30 teaching weeks in a school year, and EYL lessons are 2.5 hours a week in 5 half hour sessions'). 11. If you can, please give the most up-to-date statistics for numbers of EYL teachers and pupils in the public education system in your country.
http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/question.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:50:13
12. Which kinds of teachers are involved in the official teaching of EYL in the public education system? Choose from the categories below. If you can, please add an approximate % figure for each category that you select. a. the children's normal class teacher. b. a specialist teacher of English who works in only one school. c. a specialist teacher of English who visits different schools to give lessons. d. a person not a qualified teacher who knows English and works in only one school. e. a person not a qualified teacher who knows English and visits different schools to give lessons. f. other. (Please give details.) 13. Who is considered in your country to be eligible to teach EYL in the public education system? You can choose one, or several answers: a. an established primary teacher who has passed a local test or exam in English. (If you select this answer, please give details about the test or exam). b. an established primary teacher who has passed an internationally recognised language test or exam, e.g. the Cambridge First Certificate. (Please state which tests or exams are accepted.) c. a primary teacher who has successfully completed a special in-service training course in English language and/or EYL methodology. (Please give details of the course.) d. a teacher who has had pre-service training at college or university and is qualified to become a teacher of English at primary level. e. a teacher qualified to teach English at secondary school, but who is willing to work in primary schools. f. a University graduate of English who has not taken courses in Education or Teaching methodology. g. a native speaker of English, who has no recognised qualifications as a teacher. h. other. (Please give details.) 14. Nationwide, are schools able to find enough eligible EYL teachers for their needs? If YES, how was this achieved? If NO, what steps are being taken to increase the numbers of suitable teachers? 15. What official documents exist at the moment to guide teachers about the content of EYL teaching in your country? Choose one answer. a. No published guidelines or syllabus. b. A general description of aims for EYL, but no specific advice about content. c. A fairly detailed outline of suitable content, listing e.g. Topic Areas, Functions, Skills to concentrate on. d. A more detailed specification of content, with e.g. word lists, structure lists, examples of phrases and sentences to be included in the teaching. e. Other types of guidelines. (Please give details.) 16. How free are teachers and schools to choose which sorts of materials to use? Choose one answer. a. There is no school budget for books, so teachers must make all their own materials.
b. Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international) provided that they are within the school budget. c. Teachers may choose any published materials (local or international) provided that they are within budget and that the materials have had official clearance or approval, e.g. by a Ministry of Education Textbook Committee. d. There is an officially-approved list of locally published material, and teachers may choose any of these, within their budget. e. There is only one approved book and this is published specially for schools in this country or region. No other choice is allowed. f. Other. (Please give details.) 17. What sorts of teaching materials are used? Select all answers which apply. a. original teaching materials devised by teachers themselves. b. lesson materials adapted by teachers from several published sources. c. international published course books. d. locally published course books. e. other. (Please give details.) 18. Plans for the future in your country or region. Is an innovation with regard to EYL in public compulsory education under discussion or officially agreed for the near future? E.g. a lowering of the starting age or an increase in the hours per year? EYL in the private sector In many countries there is a vigorous private sector involved in EYL which we have separated into three main categories which you will find below. 19. Private primary schools providing a mainstream general education for children of parents who can pay fees. Are these schools present in any significant way in your country? YES/ NO. If YES, please answer the questions below: a. What % of primary school children attend such schools? b. Does EYL provision differ significantly from that in the public sector - e.g. different age of starting, different number of hours teaching, different material? c. Other comments. 20. Private sector language schools which are parallel and supplementary to the mainstream general education system (for instance, the British Council's Teaching Centres). Are such schools present in any significant way in your country? YES/NO If YES, please answer the questions below: a. How many YLs attend these language schools (estimate % or numbers)? b. How many hours per week is typical? c. Please comment on any perceived conflict between these schools and the public EYL provision (e.g., children attending the private language school have more advanced English lessons than they receive in mainstream primary school, or the methodology may be very different).
d. What materials are used in these private sector language schools? e. Other comments. 21. Private tuition in English, either lessons for children in their own homes by a visiting tutor, or for small groups of children who meet in a place of the tutor's choosing. Does this exist in your country in any significant way? YES/NO. If YES, a. How many YLs are involved (estimate % or numbers)? b. Do private tutors teach children of a younger age than the official starting age in compulsory education? c. Why do parents want their children to have private tuition? The place of English for YL compared with other foreign languages 22. Are any other (non-L1) languages than English an official part of the curriculum in compulsory state education? YES/NO. If YES, please list the languages learned, and give the normal starting age.
Produced in United Kingdom by The British Council 2000. The British Council is the United Kingdom's international organisation for educational and cultural relations. Registered in England as a Charity.

Worldwide Survey of Primary Elt

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Worldwide Survey of Primary Elt

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Worldwide survey of primary ELT - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Worldwide survey of primary ELT

About the survey

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/index.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:38:52

Expanding the survey

Back to the top | Back to English home page

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/index.htm (2 of 3)07/12/2004 09:38:52

Key questions about EYL

What are the advantages of starting English at primary school?

Can natural language acquisition be replicated through school learning?

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/key_questions.htm (1 of 2)07/12/2004 09:39:06

Articles - English - The British Council United Kingdom

Countries - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Countries surveyed in primary ELT

Back to world-wide survey home | English home

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/countries.htm (1 of 2)07/12/2004 09:39:28

Argentina - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Public sector primary schools

It is in the process of introduction, province by province

1998 (regionally) 8/9 See above

Not fewer than 72 x 60minute lessons per year Not stated

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/argentina.htm (1 of 4)07/12/2004 09:39:36

Argentina - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Who does the EYL teaching?

What official guidelines exist for EYL teaching?

What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?

Are any changes in the provision of EYL planned or anticipated?

Back to the top of page

Private sector primary schools

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/argentina.htm (2 of 4)07/12/2004 09:39:36

Argentina - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Yes, mostly in Buenos Aires

What materials do they use for EYL?

Private language schools

Only in Buenos Aires

Private tuition for Young Learners

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/argentina.htm (3 of 4)07/12/2004 09:39:36

Argentina - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Before mainstream education

Date information collected: 1999

Back to world-wide survey home | English home

Our Freedom of Information Publications Scheme

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/argentina.htm (4 of 4)07/12/2004 09:39:36

Austria - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Public sector primary schools

Yes, as an alternative to French or Italian

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/austria.htm (1 of 3)07/12/2004 09:39:48

Austria - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

What materials are typically used?

What other foreign languages are taught at primary level?

Are any changes in the provision of EYL planned or anticipated?

http://www.britishcouncil.org/english/eyl/austria.htm (2 of 3)07/12/2004 09:39:48

Austria - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK

Private sector primary schools

Is there a significant number of these schools?

Private language schools

Is there a significant number of these schools?

Private tuition for Young Learners

Is there private tuition for primary age children?

Date information collected: 1999

Back to world-wide survey home | English home

Our Freedom of Information Publications Scheme

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Bahrain - Teaching English to young learners - British Council UK