Exploring Intercultural Awareness in the Primary Modern Language Classroom: The Potential of the New Model of European Language Portfolio Developed by the Irish Modern Languages in Primary Schools Initiative (MLPSI)

Abstract

This paper reflects a key concern for teacher trainers: how can primary language teachers promote the development of intercultural awareness among their pupils? It addresses the concept of intercultural awareness as it applies to young learners and refers more specifically to the context of the Irish primary classroom and its curriculum. It argues that the European Language Portfolio (ELP) provides a valuable framework to develop and describe young learners' experiences, awareness and attitudes in this area and outlines the role of the MLPSI ELP model as a valuable potential instrument for both teacher training and teaching practice in this area.