Hard and soft CLIL: what is the difference?

In today's globalised world, knowledge of foreign languages is not just a useful skill but a real necessity. However, how can we make the language learning process more productive and engaging? 

The answer lies in the CLIL methodology — Content and Language Integrated Learning. 

This approach combines the study of school subjects with language acquisition, immersing students in a linguistic environment naturally. 

Depending on the degree of language and content integration, it is divided into two approaches: hard and soft CLIL, each with its own unique features and advantages.

So, what is the difference between hard and soft CLIL? How can these methods transform the learning process and make it more interesting and productive? Let's delve into the world of CLIL and explore this in more detail.

Hard CLIL represents the most intensive form of integrated learning. In this approach, the entire subject is taught in a foreign language. 

For instance, biology or geography lessons may be conducted entirely in English, Spanish, or any other language that is not the students' native tongue.

Effective language immersion

Hard CLIL ensures complete immersion in the foreign language, as all lessons are conducted in it. 

For example, in a biology lesson conducted in English, students read scientific articles, watch video lectures, participate in discussions, and write lab reports in English.

This continuous use of the language helps them not only to memorise new words and expressions but also to develop critical thinking and analytical skills in English.

Deepened subject understanding

Studying a subject in a foreign language requires more effort and concentration from students, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the material. 

For instance, in history lessons conducted in English, students might explore the causes and consequences of the Industrial Revolution, discussing historical documents and analysing the perspectives of various historians.

This process helps them better grasp historical events and develop critical thinking skills. The learning experience becomes more intensive and, to some extent, challenging.

Practical application of language

One of the main advantages of hard CLIL is that students can use the foreign language in real-life situations. 

They are not just learning vocabulary and grammar; they are applying these in practice.

For example, in physics lessons conducted in English, students might work on a project to create a model of an electric circuit. 

Throughout the process, they read instructions and scientific articles in English, discuss the principles of electrical components with the teacher and each other, and record their observations and conclusions in lab journals in English.

They might also prepare a presentation in English, explaining the results of their experiments and demonstrating the functioning of their model.

Thus, students see the practical application of the language in scientific and technical fields.

It is essential to know that hard CLIL demands a high level of preparation from both teachers and students. 

Teachers must be confident in their language skills and capable of explaining complex concepts in a foreign language. 

Likewise, students need to possess a sufficient level of language proficiency to comprehend the educational material.

Soft CLIL is a flexible and adaptive approach to education that allows students to gradually master a foreign language while simultaneously studying other school subjects. 

Unlike hard CLIL, where lessons are entirely conducted in a foreign language, soft CLIL uses the language as a supplementary tool. 

In this approach, the primary focus is on language learning, while the subject content may be taught in the students' native language.

For example, lessons might include specific terms or short texts in a foreign language, but the main explanations and discussions occur in the native language. 

This method provides a more gradual immersion, helping students build their language skills without overwhelming them.

Smooth language immersion

One of the main advantages of soft CLIL is the smooth immersion in the language. 

Teachers can integrate the language into lessons gradually, starting with simple words and phrases and progressively moving to more complex constructions and texts.

Imagine a middle school maths lesson. The teacher begins the lesson in the native language, explaining a new topic — geometric shapes. 

Once the students understand the basic concepts, the teacher introduces English terms: "square," "triangle," "circle." Students start using these words in their responses and exercises. 

Then, the teacher may provide several problems in English, helping students become accustomed to using the language in the context of maths.

Focus on key language aspects

Soft CLIL emphasises what is truly important for mastering the language without overwhelming students with unnecessary information.

Consider a history lesson. Instead of making students read lengthy texts in English, the teacher can select key events or terms they need to remember. 

For instance, while studying World War II, the teacher might highlight words and phrases such as "Allied forces," "invasion," and "resistance." 

Students will use these terms in their responses and discussions, which will help them better retain the material and improve their language proficiency.

Flexibility and adaptability

Every student is unique, and soft CLIL takes this into account. Teachers can adapt materials and assignments to match each student's language proficiency level. 

For example, in a literature class, older students might read original texts in English, while younger students work with adapted versions. 

This allows each student to progress at their own pace without feeling left behind.

For instance, if there are many sports enthusiasts in the class, the teacher can use articles and videos about sporting events and famous athletes in English. 

This way, teachers choose topics and materials that are most interesting to their students and adapt them to educational goals, making learning engaging.

Reducing the language barrier

Reducing the language barrier begins with the gradual introduction of a foreign language into the educational process. 

Teachers can start with simple words and phrases related to the lesson topic and slowly increase the language complexity as students become more confident. 

This approach allows students to become accustomed to the new language without feeling overwhelmed.

Teachers can provide educational materials in the native language with parallel translations or explanations in the foreign language. 

For instance, a biology textbook might contain the main explanations in the native language, while important terms and key phrases are in English. 

This allows students to first understand the material in their native language and then reinforce their knowledge in the foreign language. 

By associating the new language with familiar concepts, the learning process becomes easier and more effective.

The table below clearly illustrates the main differences between hard and soft CLIL, helping to choose the most suitable approach depending on specific conditions and educational goals.

Education is constantly evolving, and approaches like hard and soft CLIL play a key role in this process. 

These two approaches represent essential tools for mastering a foreign language, offering different but equally effective pathways. 

The choice between hard and soft CLIL depends on various factors: students' preparedness, educational programme goals, and teachers' willingness to experiment with methodologies. 

Don't be afraid to experiment and implement new methods in your lessons.