Learning a new language and fitting in to a different way of life

Language and Literacy; Expressive Arts; People, past events and societies; Social wellbeing Primary and Lower Secondary

These activities use Dorrith Sim’s testimony and her book ‘In my Pocket’ to develop language skills and cultural awareness.

If available, read her book.

Look for any other testimonies describing coming to a new country.

Task 1

Language Differences – Idioms, Body Language, Cultural nuances

Discuss-

1. When in Rome, do as the Romans.

2. No man is an island.

3. The early bird catches the worm.

4. Saying Hello – formal Bow (European); Handshake (British).

What else? Pupils should provide other examples from their cultures

Task 2

Different cultures –

Meeting someone new; not English speaking

Activities for Drama; Cartoon Strips, Writing

1. Challenges facing a new pupil / refugee / asylum seeker / immigrant coming into school for the first day

Further Activities

1. Pupils explain how to make a sandwich

2. How to go to the playground from their classroom.

3. Food – pupils explain what Haggis, tablet, shortbread is. They can share their knowledge of typical foods.

4. Acting a scene out: – First day at Nursery; Primary 1; new school; new town; new country.

Please note – We can put you in touch with German schools so that your pupils could become Pen Pals

Downloads

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