ABSTRACT
This guiding chapter tries to reveal the features of Soft CLIL (language-led) in opposition to those of Hard CLIL (subject-led). The chapter first identifies the location of content-oriented language education in the existing language teaching and learning methodologies (e.g., the Grammar Translation Method, audiolingualism, Communicative Language Teaching). The chapter then focuses on various types of content-driven approaches (i.e., CLIL, Content-Based Instruction, English Medium Instruction, immersion), discussing how they are similar to and different from each other. What follows is the detailed comparison between Hard CLIL and Soft CLIL, the latter of which is clearly defined. Basic principles and practical frameworks for Soft CLIL lesson design, materials development, and pedagogical skills are also provided with examples.
