How can you improve your English language proficiency with content-based instruction?

If you are learning English as a second or foreign language, you might be looking for ways to improve your language skills while also acquiring new knowledge and skills in other subjects. Content-based instruction (CBI) is an approach that can help you achieve both goals. CBI is a method of teaching language through meaningful and relevant content, such as science, history, or art. In this article, you will learn about the benefits of CBI, the types of CBI, and some tips on how to use CBI effectively.

1 Benefits of CBI

CBI can help you improve your English language proficiency in various ways. First, it can expose you to authentic and diverse texts and materials that reflect real-world situations and contexts. This can help you develop your vocabulary, grammar, and discourse skills in a natural and engaging way. Second, it can enhance your motivation and interest in learning English by connecting it to your personal or professional goals and interests. Third, it can foster your critical thinking and problem-solving skills by challenging you to analyze, interpret, and apply the content you learn. Fourth, it can promote your intercultural awareness and competence by exposing you to different perspectives and cultures related to the content.

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Kirsten Smith, B. Sc (Hons), TEFL

Aussie Mining Professional | Unlocking YOUR potential as a Mining/Minerals Industry Professional by transforming your English communication skills
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This is exactly what I aim to do with my programs. Because when I worked in industry, I saw many people struggle even if they had high language ability. They knew how to construct a sentence, what rule to use where. But they couldn’t USE it. They couldn’t connect to people with it. They had a great toolkit, but they had forgotten to learn how to build anything with it. So they lost confidence. And they stopped trying. English is a tools for use. It’s nuanced and different in so many circumstances. I see too many people leave the tools in the toolkit and never try to build anything because they were never given the chance to learn the building when they were perfecting the use of the tool.

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2 Types of CBI

There are different types of CBI, depending on the degree of integration between language and content. One type is theme-based CBI, where the language course is organized around a specific theme or topic, such as environmental issues, human rights, or media literacy. The theme provides a framework for selecting and sequencing the language and content objectives, materials, and activities. Another type is sheltered CBI, where the content course is taught in English by a language teacher or a content teacher with language training. The teacher adapts the content and the instruction to suit the language level and needs of the learners. A third type is adjunct CBI, where the learners take a content course and a language course that are linked and coordinated. The language course supports the learners in developing the language skills and strategies they need to succeed in the content course.

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Nikos Papailiou

Results-driven Business English Coach | CELTA, MBA, LSE, BSFS, IELTS, IB( English / Business/Economics )
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Content that is relevant ( up-to-date ),thematic ( useful ) and appropriate ( right learning level ) -delivered enthusiastically will help make the students communicate more rapidly and with confidence . The RTA ( relevant, thematic and appropriate ) approach works! Try it!

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3 Tips for CBI

If you want to use CBI effectively, here are some tips to follow. First, choose a content area that interests you and matches your goals and needs. You can explore various sources of content, such as textbooks, articles, podcasts, videos, or online courses. Second, set clear and realistic language and content objectives for yourself. You can use a syllabus, a rubric, or a checklist to guide your learning and monitor your progress. Third, use a variety of strategies to enhance your comprehension and production of the language and the content. You can use strategies such as previewing, predicting, questioning, summarizing, paraphrasing, note-taking, outlining, or reviewing. Fourth, seek feedback and support from your teacher, peers, or other sources. You can ask questions, participate in discussions, collaborate on projects, or use online tools and resources.

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you improve your English language proficiency with content-based instruction?

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2

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1 Benefits of CBI

2 Types of CBI

3 Tips for CBI

4 Here’s what else to consider

K-12 Education

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How can you improve your English language proficiency with content-based instruction?

1

2

3

4

1 Benefits of CBI

2 Types of CBI

3 Tips for CBI

4 Here’s what else to consider

K-12 Education

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