The two week programme, which includes a range of interactive learning experiences, is a fun way for pupils to learn about the German language and culture.
Mrs Spence, Principal of Kilbride Central Primary school, became interested in the programme and said
“The bears programme is an opportunity to enhance the children’s learning of new languages, which is part of the school’s development plan. Pupils at the school already learn Spanish from foundation stage; a visit from Alex the bear offered the opportunity to enhance the P7 year group’s knowledge of languages.”
Alex, who is from Berlin in Germany, travels to schools in the UK. His furry friend, Ben, the English teddy bear visits schools in Germany. Each bear is accompanied by a range of resources for the schools to use, including worksheets and lesson plans. Teachers also receive special online access to songs, games and quizzes. Alex and Ben’s adventures are detailed on a special ‘bears’ blog’.
Discussing the learning experience, Mrs Spence said, “the programme is particularly beneficial for children who are more creative and enjoy the arts and modern languages. It allows them the opportunity to express themselves in a different way.”
“P7 pupils enjoyed learning German words, phrases and songs. The school enhanced the programme by introducing a ‘buddy system’ where the P7 pupils shared their knowledge with pupils in P3.”
To find out more about the UK-German bear programme see http://www.ukgermanconnection.org/bears
To watch a video about Alex’s visit to Kilbride Central Primary School see video below. If you have trouble accessing the Video about Alex the bear click here to be directed to CSSC vimeo account.
29 April 2019