Which instructional method focuses on integrating core content with language learning?

Content-based language instruction is a teaching approach that focuses on integrating core academic content with language learning. This method is particularly effective for students who are learning a new language because it allows them to develop their language skills in the context of meaningful content areas, such as science, math, or social studies. By combining language acquisition with subject matter, students engage more deeply with both the language and the content, making the learning process more relevant and practical.

This technique supports the idea that language is best learned when it is tied to real-life contexts and subjects that interest the learners. Through exposure to vocabulary, structures, and concepts within a specific content area, students can improve their language proficiency while simultaneously mastering the subject matter.

In contrast, direct instruction emphasizes explicit teaching of skills and knowledge, often through lecturing and step-by-step teaching without necessarily integrating language learning. Standards-based instruction focuses on teaching to established educational standards but does not inherently connect language development with subject content as effectively as content-based language instruction does. Peer teaching involves students teaching one another and can be very beneficial, but it does not specifically target the integration of language learning with core academic content.