Teaching Slovak History and Culture in English – Challenges and Sources (workshop)

Slovakia, ID Výzvy2016-407;     In today’s society history and culture are taught as one subject at different levels of the Slovak educational system. History as a subject definitely belongs in the school curriculum as it provides information about past events and cultural evolution while explaining the mutual relations of nations and people. This helps students to gain clarity regarding the development of countries around the world.  In this context it is of great advantage for Slovak students to be able to compare and analyse their own national history and culture with European and other international cultures. Our National history as part of Slovak general knowledge could be better explained abroad if expressed clearly when needed in another language. In this case education in foreign languages and also specific subjects at Slovak schools is essential. During the last decade the CLIL approach has become a useful tool for teachers who focus their attention on combining the content of history/culture with the English language. Some obstacles and challenges require the attention of contemporary teachers in training. The aim of the workshop is to provide attendees with examples of activities for the teaching of Slovak history and culture in the English language and to share sources in order to provide history teachers with tips and hints. Time will be allotted for discussion of current challenges surrounding CLIL and the teaching of Slovak history.