This book provides a holistic overview of what leads to success in foreign language learning at an early age and deepens our understanding of early foreign language learning. The studies use an array of methodological approaches to research learners aged between three and ten, as well as their parents and teachers, in instructional, minimal-input…

This article presents the major findings of a small-scale study of recent changes in the elementary school curriculum in Portugal and their implications for teachers' sense of professionalism. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and questionnaires in a suburban elementary school. Findings suggest the emergence of contradictory…

This pamphlet discusses new curriculum guidelines, as approved under Ruling number 5220/97, for preschool education in Portugal. The law defines preschool as a first step in basic education that complements the education provided by the family, and recommends that schools work in collaboration with parents to foster the training and balanced…