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.

Dorrith Sim- listen to her testimony- ‘Before the War’.

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

• Differences in lifestyle
• Language challenges
• Differences between schools
• Correct behaviour

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