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TEACHER-LEARNER: AN EFFECTIVE PARTNERSHIP TEACHING FROM THE LEARNER’S PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Monica MARIN
Number of views: 316
The launch of the European Language Portfolio represents a breakthrough that will
change the teaching-learning approach. It is designed according to the Common
European Framework of Reference for Languages (CERF) concerning the core
idea of language use for various communicative activities and situations. The
Portfolio contains more than one set of descriptors because it takes into account
both linguistic competencies - such as the linguistic, socio-linguistic and pragmatic
levels – as well as general competencies like the speaker’s knowledge of the world,
social and practical skills, cultural awareness, attitudes, motivation.
The main advantages of the Portfolio are its reporting and pedagogic functions.
The former focuses on results, summative assessment, transparency and
comparability, while the latter focuses on the learning process, formative
assessment, learning incentives and learning occasions. Its key components are
self-assessment grids based on CERF in twenty-six languages and self-assessment
checklists. Therefore, the Portfolio has practical applications such as: raising perspective
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awareness of individual language competencies and needs (this is to be found in
the Portfolio), encouraging non-judgemental self-assessment (Language Biography
activities), and adapting and creating activities and worksheets at all levels that
clearly ‘fit in’ with can-do statements.