A sociocultural analysis of language learning: New forms of literacy practices in a language and culture awareness programme

Cumming-Potvin, W., Renshaw, P. and van Kraayenoord, C. (2003) A sociocultural analysis of language learning: New forms of literacy practices in a language and culture awareness programme. Language and Education, 17 (6). pp. 391-407.

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Abstract

This paper reports on a sociocultural study conducted in a Catholic primary school in the Australian outback and provides insights into how policy related to Languages Other Than English (LOTE) programmes is implemented in a specific location and interwoven within the literacy practices of children, parents and teachers. A case study that tracked a Year Four student's learning and development during a Language and Culture Awareness Programme is discussed within a discourse of cultural and linguistic practices. Significant aspects of the student's learning related to a phenomenon called multi-tiered scaffolding temporarily disrupted the established literacy practices in the school community. Implications of the research for second-language teaching and learning in Australian primary schools are elaborated.