ICC Learning Aims by the end of Primary Education in the Netherlands (proposal July 2023):

Target level 2nd language: A1 (Havo/Vwo desired starter level A2).

Understanding Information (Interpretative): I can understand the main idea and basic information in everyday situations and stories by recognising familiar words, phrases, and simple sentences in two languages.

Communicating and Connecting (Interpersonal): I can talk about everyday things using words I know. I can share, ask, and express myself in different situations in two languages.

Understanding Changing Cultures (Investigating): I can learn about different cultures and how people communicate which helps me understand different perspectives in two languages.

ICC Learning Aims by the end of two lower year levels secondary education or onderbouw in the Netherlands (proposal July 2023):

Target level 2nd language: A2 (Havo/Vwo desired level B1).

Understanding Information (Interpretative): I can understand the main point and gather some information about familiar topics from sentences, groups of sentences, longer texts and stories in three languages.

Communicating and Connecting (Interpersonal): I can actively participate in conversations, express myself, and interact effectively in familiar situations. I can ask and answer questions, create sentences, share information, give presentations, and engage in interactive communication with better understanding and expression in three languages.

Understanding Changing Cultures (Investigating): I can explore, learn, and understand how people communicate and express themselves in different cultures, including my own. I can explore texts, conversations, and presentations from various cultures, which helps me understand different perspectives and ways of thinking in three languages.

The can-do statements below can serve as learning aims students themselves can understand. CEFR-based ©CreativeDiamond, June 2023

CEFR A1:

Speaking: talking and listening to others

I can be respectful and interested in learning about other people’s cultures and backgrounds.

I talk to my friends and ask them about their favorite things.

I listen to others and try to understand how they feel.

I use kind words and show respect to people from different cultures.

I say hello and introduce myself to others.

I talk about things I like and share my ideas with my friends.

I listen to stories and instructions from my teachers and parents.

Listening: understanding and following

I can understand how others feel and imagine what it is like to be in their shoes.

I listen to stories and learn about different cultures.

I understand simple instructions from my teachers and parents.

I can hear kind words that make me feel good.

I listen to conversations and understand what people are talking about.

I follow directions and do what I am asked to do.

I pay attention to sounds and words around me to learn new things.

Writing: expressing my thoughts

I can write nice and creative things to make myself and others feel good, like positive messages and words of encouragement.

I read signs, labels, and short paragraphs to find information about things around me.

I can recognise letters and put them together to make words.

I look at pictures and words in books to learn new things.

I practice writing words and sentences to tell stories.

I write simple messages and letters to my friends and family.

I fill out forms and write my name and address.

Reading: understanding different cultures

I can read books or stories that teach me how to be a better person and that make me feel happy and confident

I read simple stories and books that teach me about different cultures and how to be a good friend.

I learn about new words and ideas that help me understand people from different countries.

I enjoy reading stories that make me feel happy and confident.

I recognise letters, words, and basic sentence structures.

I engage with simple texts, such as signs, labels, and short paragraphs, to gather information about different cultures.

Personal development and shaping of subjective intercultural experience

  • I can try to be more open to new ideas and not judge them right away.
  • I can start doing things I have not tried before, even if they scare me a little.
  • I can feel more comfortable when I am in a new or unfamiliar situation.
  • I can think about different ways of looking at things and come up with simple and creative solutions.
  • I can understand that everyone has different experiences and feelings, and I should respect that.

Rationale A1

Intercultural Communicative Competence A1

I listen to stories and learn about different cultures.

I understand simple instructions from my teachers and parents.

I can hear kind words that make me feel good.

Pluri-Literacies A1

I listen to conversations and understand what people are talking about.

I follow directions and do what I’m asked to do.

I pay attention to sounds and words around me to learn new things.

CEFR A2:

Speaking: talking and listening to others

I can have respectful conversations where I listen and understand different cultural perspectives. I show that I care about others and try to see things from their point of view.

I have basic conversations about different cultures, things that have happened to me, and how to be kind to others. I use simple words and gestures to talk and understand.

I talk to people in everyday situations like saying hello, introducing myself, and talking with friends. I learn to use the right words for different situations.

Listening: understanding and following

When someone is talking to me, I pay attention and try to understand how they feel. I do not judge them, and I accept their experiences and emotions without any conditions.

I listen carefully to simple things people say about culture, their own stories, and how to be kind. I understand words and phrases that I hear often in everyday conversations.

I understand basic things that people say in different situations, like when they give directions, have conversations, or give short talks

Writing: expressing my thoughts

I can write about how I have changed and grown as a person. I can share my thoughts and feelings about my personal journey and the lessons I have learned in a creative way.

I write about what I think and what has happened to me, like how I have changed and things I have learned from other cultures. I use simple words to show that I care about others and their cultures.

I write using easy words to share my ideas and experiences. I can use computers and other tools to be creative with my writing.

Reading: understanding different cultures

I can read books or articles that inspire me to become a better person and understand how others feel. These texts encourage me to be kind and considerate towards others.

I read easy stories about different cultures, how people grow, and understanding others’ feelings. I learn about different cultures and start to see things from different points of view.

I practice reading simple books and other things in different formats. I can use computers and understand if the information I find is reliable.

Personal development and shaping of subjective experience:

I can try new things and take more risks in my life to make it more exciting and interesting.

I can fully enjoy each moment without distorting it or trying to make it something it is not.

I can be flexible and open-minded when faced with different situations and be more accepting of them.

I can think carefully and evaluate information from different sources. I can come up with creative and unique ideas.

I can understand that everyone has different experiences and emotions, and I try my best to understand and care about how they feel.

Rationale A2

Intercultural Communicative Competence A2

I am learning that people from different cultures can be different, and it is important to understand and care about how they feel.

I think about my own experiences and try to understand how others see things.

Pluri-Literacies A2

I read and look at simple things that teach me about different cultures and ways of thinking.

I use easy books and pictures to learn new ideas and understand more about the world.

CEFR B1:

Speaking: talking and listening to others

I can have meaningful discussions about different cultures and show understanding and empathy towards their values and practices.

I can have conversations about cultural differences, personal experiences, and empathy. I use simple language and gestures to express myself and understand others.

I can speak in everyday situations, like greeting people, introducing myself, and talking to others.

I try to adapt my language to different situations.

Listening: understanding and following

I can actively listen to different viewpoints without judgment and keep an open mind.

I listen carefully to spoken texts about topics like culture, personal stories, and understanding others.

I understand familiar words and phrases in everyday conversations.

I can understand spoken language in different situations, like following instructions, having conversations, and listening to short presentations.

Writing: expressing my thoughts

I can write shorter creative, informative and persuasive pieces that encourage empathy, respect for different cultures, and personal growth.

I can write for different audiences.

I can express my thoughts and experiences in writing. I write about personal growth, creativity, empathy, and understanding different cultures.

I try to make my writing interesting and easy to understand.

I can write in different styles, use formal and informal language, like school assignments, stories, and online posts.

I use my language skills to communicate effectively with others.

Reading: understanding different cultures

I can read books and articles that explore personal growth, cultural awareness and understanding, and empathy towards others.

I can understand different perspectives and cultural differences in what I read.

I have good reading skills and can understand different types of texts, including digital content and books.

I can find information and understand it in different contexts.

Personal development and shaping of subjective intercultural experience

  • I can trust myself and believe in my own ability to make good decisions.
  • I can rely less on what society expects and more on my own values and beliefs.
  • I can listen to my instincts and have a strong sense of what is right and wrong.
  • I can take responsibility for my actions and own up to my mistakes.
  • I can analyse information, critique arguments, and come up with creative ideas in different situations.
  • I can understand that people have different experiences and may feel emotions more deeply. I actively engage in conversations with empathy and respect.

Rationale B1:

CEFR Level B1: Intercultural Communicative Competence

I am actively working on my personal growth by trying new things and challenging myself. I want to understand different cultures and be more empathetic.

I think about myself and how I see the world, trying to be fair and open-minded. I use problem-solving skills and critical thinking to overcome challenges and make good choices.

I respect and appreciate different cultures and perspectives. I believe it’s important to communicate and understand people from different backgrounds.

CEFR Level B1: Pluri-Literacies

I enjoy reading books, watching films, and exploring online resources to learn and grow. I think carefully about what I read and watch, finding valuable ideas that I can apply to my own life.

CEFR B2:

Speaking: talking and listening to others

I can participate in in-depth discussions about topics like cultural sensitivity, personal growth, and transformative experiences.

I engage in meaningful conversations about cultural diversity, personal growth, and empathy. I actively listen to others, respect different viewpoints, and express my ideas with clarity and cultural sensitivity.

I communicate orally with confidence and coherence in various situations, including informal discussions, presentations, and negotiations. I utilise a range of linguistic and cultural resources to convey my message effectively.

Listening: understanding and following

I can understand and empathise with different viewpoints, even when they challenge my own beliefs.

I listen attentively and comprehend spoken texts that explore cultural awareness, personal development, and empathy.

I recognise implicit meanings, cultural references, and nuances in the language used.

I demonstrate competent listening skills across different contexts and media, including podcasts, interviews, and presentations.

I understand and interpret information from diverse sources, considering the cultural implications.

Writing: expressing my thoughts

I can create well-crafted creative, informative and persuasive pieces that promote empathy, unconditional positive regard, creativity and personal transformation.

I create written pieces that promote empathy, creativity, personal transformation, and cultural sensitivity. My writing encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and embrace diverse perspectives.

I effectively communicate through writing in different genres and formats, adapting my language to suit the purpose and audience.

I demonstrate proficiency in digital communication, engaging with multimedia and interactive platforms.

Reading: understanding different cultures

I can critically analyse texts that delve into cultural sensitivity, personal growth, and empathy towards individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I critically analyse texts that delve into cultural sensitivity, personal growth, and empathy.

I recognise diverse perspectives and engage with the cultural nuances embedded within the written content.

I demonstrate proficiency in navigating various types of texts, including digital, visual, and print media.

I interpret and evaluate information from different sources, applying my literacy skills in diverse contexts.

Personal development and shaping of subjective intercultural experience

  • I can experience a greater sense of freedom and have more choices in my life.
  • I can confidently make decisions from a wide range of options available to me.
  • I can feel empowered to determine my own behaviour and shape my own path.
  • I can become more independent and self-reliant, relying on myself for personal growth.
  • I can analyse and synthesise information, think critically, and generate creative and original ideas.
  • I can recognise that others may have profound experiences and a deep understanding of emotions and societal contexts.
  • I approach conversations and interactions with empathy and respect, acknowledging their perspectives.

Rationale B2:

Intercultural Communicative Competence:

I actively pursue personal growth, embracing new experiences and challenging myself to expand my cultural understanding and empathy.

I engage in critical self-reflection, recognising my biases, and striving for a more inclusive and open-minded perspective.

I utilise effective problem-solving strategies and critical thinking skills to overcome obstacles and make informed decisions.

I show respect and appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives, valuing the importance of intercultural communication and understanding.

Pluri-Literacies:

I engage with a variety of texts and media to enhance my personal growth, including literature, films, documentaries, and online resources. I critically analyse these materials, extracting valuable insights and applying them to my own life.

CEFR C1:

Speaking: talking and listening to others

I can engage in in-depth discussions about cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal transformation, and growth, fostering an inclusive environment.

I have meaningful discussions about cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal growth, and inclusivity. I understand and empathize with different cultural values and practices, creating an inclusive environment.

I am a fluent and precise speaker in various settings, such as formal presentations, debates, and group discussions. I adapt my language and communication style to different contexts, showing cultural awareness and sensitivity.

Listening: understanding and following

I possess exceptional listening skills, enabling me to comprehend intricate spoken texts and discern profound meanings by interpreting language nuances and cultural references.

I have an amazing talent for understanding and appreciating different points of view.

I am a great listener who can not only grasp what someone is saying, but also understand their emotions and cultural references.

I possess advanced listening skills and can comprehend complex spoken texts, like lectures, interviews, podcasts, and presentations.

I can interpret and analyze the language and cultural subtleties, and uncover hidden meanings.

Writing: expressing my thoughts

I can write sophisticated texts that inspire personal growth, creativity, empathy, and cultural sensitivity. My writing shows a deep understanding of complex ideas and engages readers in meaningful ways.

I am skilled at writing in different styles and genres, such as academic writing, professional communication, and digital media.

I use a variety of language and cultural resources to convey meaning and connect with different audiences.

Reading: understanding different cultures

I read and analyse complex texts about personal development, culture, and empathy, using advanced literacy skills, including digital and media literacy, to understand and evaluate different types of texts critically.

I read and analyse complex texts that explore personal growth, cultural understanding, and empathy.

I think critically about the content, understanding different perspectives and cultural nuances.

I have advanced literacy skills, including digital literacy, media literacy, and information literacy.

I can effectively read and evaluate a wide range of texts, both in print and online, using critical thinking and analysis.

Personal development and shaping of subjective intercultural experience

  • I can unleash my creativity and explore new ideas.
  • I can express myself in unique and unconventional ways.
  • I can adapt creatively to various situations without feeling the need to conform.
  • I can be innovative and resourceful.
  • I can think critically, independently, and analytically, generating original ideas and solutions in various fields.
  • I can exhibit a high level of awareness and recognition that individuals around me may have diverse and more profound experiences, as well as a deep understanding of emotions and societal contexts. I consistently approach conversations and interactions with empathy, respect, and an open mind.

Rationale C1:

CEFR Level C1: Intercultural Communicative Competence

I actively seek personal growth by embracing new experiences and pushing myself to understand and empathise with different cultures.

I reflect on my own biases and work towards having a more inclusive and open-minded perspective. I use effective problem-solving strategies and critical thinking skills to overcome obstacles and make well-informed decisions.

I deeply respect and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives, recognising the significance of intercultural communication and understanding.

CEFR Level C1: Pluri-Literacies

I engage with a variety of texts and media, such as literature, films, documentaries, and online resources, to enhance my personal growth. I critically analyse these materials, extracting valuable insights that I can apply to my own life.

CEFR C2:

Speaking: talking and listening to others

I can engage in complex and nuanced discussions on cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal transformation, and growth, fostering a climate of understanding and acceptance.

I can have complex and detailed discussions about cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal growth, and understanding.

I am a good listener, respect different opinions, and express my ideas clearly and with cultural sensitivity.

I am very confident in my speaking skills and can communicate well in formal presentations, debates, discussions, and negotiations.

I adapt my language and use different communication strategies depending on the situation, drawing on my language and cultural knowledge.

Listening: understanding and following

I can understand and appreciate diverse perspectives deeply, demonstrating profound empathy and unconditional positive regard.

I have an exceptional ability to understand and appreciate different viewpoints.

I am a very good listener, able to understand not only what is being said but also the emotions and cultural references behind it.

I have advanced listening skills and can understand complex spoken texts, such as lectures, interviews, podcasts, and presentations.

I can interpret and analyze the language and cultural nuances, and understand the hidden meanings.

Writing: expressing my thoughts

I can produce eloquent informative and persuasive texts that promote personal growth, creativity, cultural sensitivity, empathy, and positive transformation.

I can write impressive and persuasive texts that inspire personal growth, creativity, cultural sensitivity, and empathy. My writing shows a deep understanding of complex ideas and can effectively communicate them.

I am very good at writing in different styles and formats, such as academic writing, creative writing, and online content.

I use a wide range of language and cultural resources to express my ideas and connect with different readers.

Reading: understanding different cultures

I engage in the sophisticated reading and critical analysis of intricate texts that delve into the realms of personal development, cultural comprehension, and empathetic understanding, demonstrating advanced literacy proficiency encompassing digital, media, and information literacy, enabling me to effectively navigate and evaluate diverse textual forms through the application of critical thinking and analytical skills.

I can critically analyse and synthesise intricate texts that explore personal transformation, cultural empathy, and growth, reflecting a high level of cultural sensitivity and understanding.

I have the ability to understand and analyze very complex texts that explore deep ideas about personal growth, cultural understanding, and empathy. These texts challenge me to think deeply and understand different cultural perspectives.

I am very skilled at reading and understanding a wide range of materials, including digital texts, videos, and academic articles.

I can interpret and analyze information from different sources using my advanced language and cultural knowledge.

Personal development and shaping of subjective intercultural experience

  • I can be relied upon to act constructively and responsibly.
  • I can balance my needs and desires effectively.
  • I exhibit intrinsic goodness and maintain a sense of morality.
  • I have a rich, intense, and fulfilling personality.
  • I can think critically and evaluate complex arguments, generate highly creative and original ideas, and apply advanced problem-solving strategies.
  • I can display an exceptional level of awareness and recognition that individuals around me may possess more profound and nuanced experiences, along with an advanced understanding of emotions and societal contexts.
  • I consistently engage in conversations and interactions with a high degree of empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity.

Rationale C2

CEFR Level C2: Intercultural Communicative Competence

I actively pursue personal growth by seeking out new experiences and challenges that help me expand my understanding and empathy towards different cultures.

I engage in critical self-reflection, acknowledging and questioning my own biases, and striving to adopt a more inclusive and open-minded perspective. I employ effective problem-solving strategies and advanced critical thinking skills to overcome obstacles and make well-informed decisions.

I consistently show respect and appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives, recognizing the immense value of intercultural communication and understanding.

CEFR Level C2: Pluri-Literacies

I actively engage with a wide range of texts and media, including literature, films, documentaries, and online resources, to enrich my personal growth. I critically analyze and evaluate these materials, extracting valuable insights that I can apply to my own life

Brief version Can-Do Statements of Inclusive Excellence in Cultural Literacies

(CEFR-based ©CreativeDiamond, June 2023)

CEFR A1:

Speaking: Cultures, backgrounds, respect, interest, learning

Listening: Feelings, perspectives, empathy, imagine, understanding

Writing: Nice, creative, positive messages, words of encouragement

Reading: Books, stories, personal growth, happiness, confidence

CEFR A2:

Speaking: Conversations, cultural perspectives, understanding, empathy

Listening: Different viewpoints, judgment-free, acceptance, experiences

Writing: Personal growth, thoughts and feelings, creative expression

Reading: Inspiration, better understanding, kindness, consideration

CEFR B1:

Speaking: Meaningful discussions, cultural sensitivity, empathy, values, practices

Listening: Different viewpoints, open-mindedness, understanding

Writing: Creativity, persuasion, empathy, respect, personal growth

Reading: Personal growth, cultural awareness, empathy

CEFR B2:

Speaking: In-depth discussions, cultural sensitivity, personal growth, transformative experiences

Listening: Diverse viewpoints, empathy, challenging beliefs

Writing: Well-crafted pieces, empathy, creativity, personal transformation

Reading: Cultural sensitivity, personal growth, empathy, diverse backgrounds

CEFR C1:

Speaking: In-depth discussions, cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal growth, inclusive environment

Listening: Diverse viewpoints, profound empathy, unconditional positive regard

Writing: Sophisticated texts, personal growth, creativity, empathy, cultural sensitivity

Reading: Complex texts, personal transformation, cultural understanding, empathy

CEFR C2:

Speaking: Complex discussions, cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal growth, understanding and acceptance

Listening: Diverse perspectives, profound empathy, unconditional positive regard

Writing: Eloquent and persuasive texts, personal growth, creativity, cultural sensitivity, empathy

Reading: Critical analysis, intricate texts, personal transformation, cultural empathy, cultural sensitivity

When teaching English in a CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) approach, it is important to integrate vocabulary related to cultural sensitivity, empathy, personal growth, creativity, and transformative experiences at each CEFR-level.

These Can-Do statements might capture the essence of the framework, providing clear and easily understandable expectations for learners at each CEFR-level in terms of their ability to use literary techniques and integrate intercultural communicative competence in intercultural pluri-literacies in their creative writing as interpreted by the ©Creative Diamond Professional Learning Community of English Teachers, 23 June 2023. This allows students to explore these concepts and develop their language skills in a meaningful way. Teachers can provide vocabulary related to specific themes or prompts. Students can incorporate these words into creative writing pieces, fostering a deeper understanding of intercultural pluri-literacies while honing their language proficiency.