Introduction to Collaborate – An Innovative English Course for Spanish Speakers

The “Collaborate” course, developed by renowned authors Claire Thacker, Stuart Cochrane, Samantha Lewis, and Daniel Vincent, is an engaging and comprehensive English language program specifically designed for secondary school students. The updated edition brings innovative changes to the curriculum while maintaining its core approach of fostering collaboration and engagement in the classroom. With its structured levels ranging from A1 to B1+ (Elementary to Intermediate), “Collaborate” offers an excellent solution for Spanish-speaking learners seeking to improve their English language skills.

This course emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, where both students and teachers are encouraged to work together. Through its practical yet forward-thinking approach, “Collaborate” ensures that learning is not only effective but enjoyable. The integration of real-world language skills and competencies ensures that students gain more than just academic English—they acquire the necessary tools to be active participants in society.

Key Features of the Updated Collaborate Edition

The updated “Collaborate” course includes a range of new and enhanced features that aim to support both students and teachers as they navigate the evolving educational landscape. Key Competencies, a major part of the Spanish educational framework, are now given special attention in the course structure.

1. Key Competencies Focus
   One of the standout features of the updated edition is its inclusion of Key Competencies practice. Extra pages have been added to the Student’s Book to specifically cover areas like Learning to Learn and Mediation. These new sections are designed to help students not only improve their language skills but also develop broader life competencies. The Teacher’s Book now includes comprehensive mappings of how “Collaborate” addresses these Key Competencies, ensuring teachers can easily integrate them into their lessons. This approach helps students engage with their learning on a deeper level, while also meeting the educational standards set by LOMLOE (the Spanish educational law).
2. Practical Support for Teachers
   For teachers, the course offers a wealth of resources to make classroom management easier and more effective. The Teacher’s Resource Bank includes basic worksheets for students who need additional support, along with exam worksheets validated by Cambridge Assessment English. These materials prepare students for official exams like A2 Key for Schools and B1 Preliminary for Schools, which are crucial milestones in their language learning journey.
3. Digital Tools and Resources
   The digital component of “Collaborate” has been significantly upgraded in this new edition. Teachers and learners now have access to a comprehensive suite of digital tools on the Cambridge One platform. This includes Test&Train, eBooks for both the Student’s and Workbook, as well as additional resources that can be used in the classroom or at home. These tools make it easier to manage lessons, track progress, and provide personalized support for each learner.
4. Collaborative Learning and Classroom Projects
   “Collaborate” places a heavy emphasis on collaborative learning. Each unit includes collaborative tasks and unit projects that motivate students and encourage teamwork. These projects are designed to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment, where every student has the opportunity to contribute. The course also includes a Project Book with step-by-step guidance for teachers, ensuring they can manage these projects effectively and provide students with meaningful experiences.
5. Flipped Classroom Opportunities
   The updated edition of “Collaborate” embraces the flipped classroom model, which allows students to engage with content before class. Videos are provided for each unit, covering topics such as grammar, vocabulary, and real-life English usage. Teachers are given suggestions for pre-class activities, which help maximize the learning experience during face-to-face lessons. This approach promotes student autonomy and prepares them to actively participate in classroom discussions.
6. Targeted Support for Spanish Speakers
   One of the most significant aspects of the “Collaborate” course is its focus on addressing the specific challenges faced by Spanish-speaking learners of English. Through its connection to the Cambridge English Corpus, the course is informed by extensive research into the common errors made by Spanish speakers when learning English. The course includes “Get it right!” boxes throughout each unit that highlight frequent mistakes in grammar and vocabulary, offering practical tips to avoid these errors. Moreover, the curriculum includes cross-curricular projects tailored to the Spanish education system, making it even more relevant to local students.

Additional Features and Benefits

1. Step-by-Step Writing and Speaking Lessons
   Writing and speaking lessons are a core part of the course, with guided lessons designed to help students develop their language production skills. These sections break down each task into manageable steps, making it easier for students to produce quality written and spoken English.
2. Differentiation and Mixed Ability Support
   “Collaborate” is designed with a focus on mixed-ability classrooms. The course includes a graded Workbook, fast finisher activities, and additional resources at three levels of difficulty, ensuring that all students—whether they need extra support or are ready for more challenging content—can succeed. This flexibility makes “Collaborate” an ideal choice for teachers working with diverse student groups.
3. Practical Exam Preparation
   The inclusion of A2 and B1 exam practice throughout the course ensures that students are well-prepared for official language proficiency exams. These exercises help students develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in Cambridge English exams, a key milestone for many learners.

Conclusion: A Collaborative and Effective Approach to Language Learning

The updated edition of “Collaborate” is a forward-thinking, practical, and student-centered course that provides everything needed to create a collaborative learning environment. With its emphasis on Key Competencies, its focus on the specific needs of Spanish-speaking learners, and its integration of innovative digital resources, this course stands out as a comprehensive solution for secondary schools. Teachers and students alike will find it to be an invaluable tool for enhancing English language skills, fostering collaboration, and preparing students for the challenges they will face in both academic and real-life situations.

For anyone seeking a dynamic and flexible English course for Spanish-speaking students, “Collaborate” is the clear choice.