'But in movies they speak different' - Meeting Young Learner's Expectations

Abstract

This chapter argues on balancing young learners’ expectations with teaching and apprenticeship environments and teacher’s choices for models in the context of extracurricular activities. It reflects upon implications in pedagogy, which may lead to adjustments of the teaching of English to the current global reality. At a time where English is increasingly spoken by Europeans and following approaches of English as a lingua franca (ELF) by authors as Barbara Seidlhofer (2001), Jennifer Jenkins (2006) and others, reflections on new roles played by English and ELF concept are considered. Portuguese learners connect with English inside and outside school. Young learners notice certain «differences» of accent and grammar rules, considering English language used in and outside classrooms. Aiming at overcoming that gap and developing the communicative skill in learners, it seems understandable to adjust the teaching of English introducing aspects related to ELF studies. Nevertheless, developing activities according to linguistic policies is required. Thus, teachers face a serious challenge in not letting down expectations of young learners in mastering a language they look forward to use in the future, in their personal and professional paths.