Multilingual glossary of key terms in language education

Also called teaching unit is a series of lessons that constitute a thematically and functionally coherent ensemble that allows to cover specific objectives that can be verified at the end. The length of a unit is usually between 5 and 10 lessons. A series of units may be organised in a module. Although the details and activities vary according to the specific context, such as course and student level, most educational units include information about the topic, focus on student-centred learning activities and culminate in a project for students to demonstrate understanding.

Programmes at this level “are typically designed to complete secondary education in preparation for tertiary or higher education, or to provide skills relevant to employment, or both. […] This level generally begins at the end of compulsory education. The entry age is typically age 15 or 16. Entry qualifications (e.g. completion of compulsory education) or other minimum requirements are usually needed.”

The European Language Portfolio was intended from the outset for a wide range of users, including:

• teachers,
• students,
• parents,
• school managers,
• employers,
• next schools/teachers,
• textbook writers,
• … and any other persons or organisations with an interest in the individual’s language and cultural competence.