Bilan de la conférence: quels enseignements tirer du forum?

Abstract

Some of the main conclusions of the conference are summarised in this article and include the importance of mastering academic discourse genres, particularly in the language of schooling for educational achievement in all subjects. It should not be taken for granted that children who master the language in familiar contexts are also able to do so in different school subjects. Teachers of all subjects should be aware of the difficulties students may have using academic discourse. It is important to recognize the importance of the students’ languages of origin and their linguistic and cultural identities: it will lead to a greater self-esteem and to a positive attitude towards school. The importance of a close collaboration with practising teachers and other stakeholders is stressed in order to bring about change and improvements in a great variety of educational contexts.