CLIL application in the chemistry laboratory

Abstract

This article considers the integration of all four elements of CLIL into a laboratory
workshop in the «Chemistry of Elements of the Periodic Table» course. The workshop was aimed at 3 aspects such as improving English skills of students (L2), developing research (observe) skills, and critical thinking. The workshop was conducted for the 2nd year students in Chemistry with English proficiency of no less than B1. Students worked in groups in the laboratory with two instructors. During the lesson, students were taught to «think» in different languages (Kazakh and L2 English), which helped to develop their cognitive processes and conceptualization.
Also, several activities were performed using various tools to increase students’ motivation, involvement, and self-expression.
After the lab workshop, a survey was conducted by the authors. The questions referred to satisfaction, difficulties in completing tasks, and the benefits of integrating a second language into the learning process.
The article might be interesting and useful for school and university chemistry teachers applying CLIL in their classes.