European Day of Languages: Languages Unite Citizens Assembly YEAR 4

LET'S TAKE A LOOK AT THE LANGUAGES MANIFESTO: A Motivation Manifesto and Call to action. What does it say? This manifesto serves as a strategic roadmap for revitalising multilingual education within the European Union, positioning the mastery of various tongues as a political necessity for safeguarding democracy and social cohesion. The document first outlines how linguistic diversity empowers individuals by extending their identities and broadening critical awareness, specifically challenging the idea that learning English alone is sufficient for the modern European. At its core, the text applies Self-Determination Theory to the classroom, arguing that intrinsic motivation is sustained only when the fundamental human needs for autonomy, relatedness, and competence are met through supportive, learner-centred environments. Finally, it calls for a collective motivational ecology where policy makers, educators, and students work together to uphold the equal value of all languages as vital vessels of human culture and connection.

Central question:

If English already connects many Europeans, why should a school actively protect and promote other spoken and signed languages?

YOU WILL ACT AS A EU citizens’ assembly advising OUR SCHOOL/a fictional school. STEPS:

1. READ different evidence cards/policy options

2. MEDIATE the ideas to YOUR group

4. TEST claims through structured discussion AND COMPLETION OF the Student worksheet Languages Unite Citizens Assembly.

5. ONE EXPERT FROM THE GROUP WILL BE ASSIGNED to EACH CARD (Cards A, B, C, D and E). 

6. Draft a four point language manifesto.

Policy options:

● Option A: prioritise English almost exclusively because curriculum time is limited.

● Option B: guarantee meaningful space for English, other spoken languages and the local

sign language.

● Option C: let each year group choose its own language priorities.

Language support: Mediation and discussion

The text’s central claim is...

One example that supports it is...

In practical terms, this would mean...

I see the logic, but...

A possible limitation is...

Could we combine these ideas by

EVIDENCE OF THE SESSION