Product reviews for Independent Thinking on MFL

In this book Crista draws on her own personal experience as a language teacher and presents both those new to the profession and the experienced language teacher with a wealth of ideas, founded on sound principles of language teaching and learning. Crista examines the place of languages in the curriculum and ways in which we, as teachers, can ensure that language learning is a positive experience for students. Her passion for inspiring students to learn an international language is reflected in one of the many messages she gives in her book: “I believe that all learners can achieve in MFL, if given the opportunity and the right classroom climate.” For recently qualified teachers Crista's book contains comprehensive ideas on not just the teaching of the four skills, but also behaviour management, relationships and approaches to assessment amongst many other areas. In the penultimate chapter she offers some very down-to-earth information for trainees, NQTs and RQTs, which could equally be used as a checklist for mentors to promote discussion or to support their mentees. There is a lot of very sound advice given as well as practical suggestions for activities for the various skills we teach our students, as well as songs and films to engage learners and approaches to manage students' transition from the primary to the secondary phase. Whether considering creativity, revision or tips to improve reading skills in the classroom, Crista's book offers a range of ideas, which are practical and achievable. I particularly found the chapter about working with teaching assistants and students with additional needs very thought provoking. There are very many suggestions in this chapter, which would provide excellent discussion points between the two departments.

Crista's book is inspiring. As an experienced teacher you can see the relevance of the message Crista communicates throughout her book, but equally it evokes reflection in the reader to examine their own practice. It will prove to be invaluable for those new to the profession, but equally it is a resource every teacher can return to when considering new approaches to supporting students with their learning. And as my ALL colleague Professor Anna Lise Gordon says in her review: “Any book with a chapter entitled -˜The awesome power of lucky socks' is bound to catch a teacher's eye.”