Experimental Textual-learning Activities for an L2 Italian Initial-literacy Classroom

Abstract

The paper describes some specific textual learning activities developed for an L2 Italian initial literacy classroom and, in particular, for illiterate multilinguals (mostly unaccompanied foreign minors). The activities belong to an experimental proposal. It consists of a specific textual teaching module integrated with a second-language initial literacy course. The aim was to get the learner immediately accustomed to some types of text, that have been chosen to be suitable for his profile and his needs, as well as perfectly integrated with the contexts and vocabulary proposed in the classroom. Because of the minimum level, the texts were mostly discontinuous. Based on the importance of learners’ multilingualism, oral ability, and everyday needs, the specific textual activities proposed in the initial literacy classroom have produced significant results, also with important effects on learners’ motivation.