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| The official language is English. |
Basic skills in English are required for communication between schools. |
| For schools where English is not the native language |
Use pictures and photographs; develop a support system. |
| For schools where English is the native language |
Understand the situation of non-English speaking participant schools and assist them. |
- The official language is English.
Basic English skills are required for communication between schools.
- For schools where English is not the native language:
- Participating students who do not understand English could base their projects on pictures and photographs.
- In cases where the advising teacher is not fluent in English and will have a difficult time translating, an English teacher from that school should be asked to help. In the past, some participating schools have recruited parents of students to act as volunteer translators.
(Note) About Using Translation Software
Translation software can help to understand, but not to communicate to others. Translations are often word-for-word or incorrect. Rather than helping, translation software tends to cause communication problems. If you use translation software, don't rely on it as your primary means of communication.
- For schools where English is the native language
Remember that for most people in the world, English is not their first language. Always keep in mind the effort required by those who are dealing with the challenges of collaborating in a language that is not their native tongue and try to help them. For example, remind your students to avoid slang expressions and sarcasm, both of which can be wildly interpreted and potentially insulting. Good manners goes a long way. Overcoming language barriers will be a valuable learning experience for your students.
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