Learning with eTwinning - European Commission - Europa

456The project offered real and relevant opportunities for linking with nativeEnglish speakers in all four skill areas (reading, writing, listening and speaking)in ways that would have been impossible before. It also provided increasedmotivation for my pupils to learn and use a foreign language. Furthermore, theproject is interdisciplinary as it combines pupils’ knowledge of differentsubjects, such as English, ICT, Citizenship, History, Biology, Geography, Religionand Math. Pupils communicate in English and use ICT tools as a means tocommunicate, but they also write texts and express opinions concerningdifferent issues, e.g., environmental issues, historical events, the impact ofreligion and current affairs concerning citizenship and politics. They usemathematical skills to compare and analyse data. In this way, it fulfilscurricular requirements but at the same time eliminates routine day-to-daylearning.As a language teacher, I have learned that using ICT in teaching createsopportunities for pupils to interact and use the target language meaningfully.It can bring the culture and language of the target country into the classroom.It does not replace the teacher and textbooks but it supplements them andenhances the learning experience. The project has made using ICT anindispensable and irreplaceable tool in my teaching. Developing ICT skills, usingthe Internet, PowerPoint, Front Page, Word, Excel, Video Studio, recordinga film and using ICT as a way to communicate among pupils has allowed pupilsto incorporate it into their everyday learning.It does not hurt to get in touch with a teacher in another country. Take thatfirst step. Inspire each other to develop a workable, achievable project.Be realistic. It has to have relevance for your pupils. We found working on theproject to be an enjoyable and valuable experience. It is something new thatmakes your work challenging and exciting. But the most important thing isstriking up new friendships. As the title of our project states, “English isa factor integrating young Europeans”. We realise now just how true this is.So do not hesitate to create an eTwinning project. It is really worth doing!75