Title: Innovating English language learning programs for Thai EFL grade 6 students: a closer look at program description and learning outcome

Authors: Jirada Wudthayagorn; Chatraporn Piamsai; Pan-Ngarm Chairaksak

Addresses: Chulalongkorn University Language Institute, 254, Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand ' Chulalongkorn University Language Institute, 254, Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand ' Chulalongkorn University Language Institute, 254, Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Abstract: In Thailand, the current policy has been aimed at lowering the age to start learning the English language in compliance with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). It has been mandated that English is taught every day from grade 1 onwards, one hour per day, five days a week, and by the end of grade 6, students should achieve the CEFR A1. This research investigated the current policy implemented at a primary school where two different English language learning programs, non-English program (non-EP) and English program (EP), were innovated. At the end of the school year, 108 grade 6 students took the Cambridge Young Learners English Test (A1 Mover). The results showed that, CEFR A1 for Thai EFL grade 6 students is attainable. Almost all showed great potential to progress to the next CEFR level; a few might need extra help in a particular skill like listening.

Keywords: young learners; English language; learning programs; learning outcome; CEFR.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIL.2024.140871

International Journal of Innovation and Learning, 2024 Vol.36 No.3, pp.277 - 293

Received: 10 Oct 2022
Accepted: 08 Mar 2023
Published online: 03 Sep 2024 *

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