Language

This page looks at both INFORMATION RESOURCES & BOOKS in foreign langauges, TRANSLATION, teaching ENGLISH (ESOL), COMPUTER SOFTWARE, PLAIN ENGLISH and PICTURE RESOURCES

Main Related Pages on this Wiki:

NB To see the guide to the abbreviations used to indicate original sources see the Social Inclusion Information main page

New Stuff

Multiverse website has a new look: http://www.multiverse.ac.uk/ This website for teacher educators and student teachers addressing the educational achievement of pupils from diverse backgrounds, supported by the Training and Development Agency for Schools, includes information about refugees and asylum seekers. The home page indicates that, “during the next few weeks, you will see the site develop as we update and expand available resources.” (WTYL 24/11/08)
The webjunction site (US) has lots of resources on reaching those whose first language is not English. The principles are applicable in the UK and resources include good practice, guidelines and checklists for practitioners available to download, such as this chapter from the Staying Connected Toolkit (not a newly published resource, but still useful). Staying Connected Toolkit. Chapter 11: Reach non-traditional library users http://www.webjunction.org/155/resources/wjarticles. (WTYL 17/11/08)
A right to a voice: Survival English for Asylum Seekers – launch of NIACE Campaign, Weds 10 December 2008, London, 9.45am – 3.15pm Attendance free. This conference aims to: To raise awareness of the needs of asylum seekers; To engage with the voluntary sector, refugee community organisations and faith community organisations; To plan action to set up survival English groups. See: http://www.niace.org.uk/Conferences/Conferences.htm (WTYL 17/11/08)
A good read for North Yorkshire’s migrant workers - In September, as part of the National Year of Reading, North Yorkshire celebrated cultural, personal and local identity promoting the collections they are developing to support an increasingly multi-cultural population. This year has seen the launch of a book collection in Polish which has been set up to meet growing demand from Polish families who make up the largest number of migrant workers coming to North Yorkshire. More information at: http://www.northyorks.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=8157. Press coverage includes: http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/localnews/Libraries-looking-to-cater-for.4467860.jp and http://www.nidderdaleherald.co.uk/ripon-news/Libraries-aim-to-make-migrants.4482791.jp (WTYL 27/10/08)
Migrant communities information page http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/ACCI/web/site/Libraries/NS/lib_migrant.asp Aberdeen Library and Information Service example of web-based information about migrant communities information point and services offered, with links to leaflets in Polish and Russian. (WTYL 27/10/08) Projects in Wales with economic migrants. Library project case study - The Welsh Local Government Association website features a case study of PAWB library project. PAWB means “everyone” in Welsh and also translates as public access without barriers, which is the aim of the library project developed by Rhondda Cynon Taff library service. A multi-lingual library website has been designed to help those less confident in English to find information about a variety of services in the area. Case study at: http://www.wlga.gov.uk/english/equalities-social-justice/case-study-example-pawb-library-project-rhondda-cynon-taf-library-service/ Multilingual website at http://library.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk/pawb/ (WTYL 27/1/08)
Learning English: volunteers matter - This guide, published by NIACE, explores how volunteers can help English language learners gain the basic language skills they need to settle and integrate in the UK, and to progress to further learning and or employment.. The guide is in five parts and covers policy background, volunteer roles in helping adults learn English, guidance on recruitment, training and support of volunteers, information poster and cards for volunteers, managers and strategic partners and list of resources and useful contacts. More information and guide available to download from: http://www.niace.org.uk/projects/volunteersmatter/Default.htm. (WTYL 20/10/08)
Developing reading skills through home languages - New resource published by the Redbridge Ethnic Minority Advisory Team. It was developed to help schools engage ethnic minority parents who cannot read English, or are not familiar with how reading is taught in school, to support their children with reading at home. The document outlines issues with EAL pupils and their reading skills, the benefits of reading in the home language, and illustrates case studies from schools that implemented the project and evidences their subsequent findings. Cost is £50.00 (including p&p). The resource comprises one spiral-bound document and two accompanying CDs. Further information from Susan Bagel, tel: 020 8553 4511. (WTYL 13/10/08 and refed, http://www.refugeeeducation.co.uk/mailing.htm)
Giving a first class service to users with English as Second Language, 13th Nov 2008, McDonald Road Library, Edinburgh. Repeat of the popular course organised by the CILIP Branch & Mobiles Group. This course gives the viewpoint of some ESOL customers followed by help and advice from two leading authorities. There is a chance to meet a specialist in supplying foreign books and then a forum and workshop to exchange good practice. Further info from Ian Stringer, ian_bmlg@hotmail.com. (WTYL 13/10/08)
"A DAY celebrating all things Spanish is being held in Sheffield to launch a new city language centre. Spanish taster sessions for five to 11-year-olds will be on offer at the event from 1-4pm on Sunday October 19 at St Timothy's Church Hall, Slinn Street, Crookes. There will also be Spanish music, puppet-making, storytelling, games, delicious tapas and non-alcoholic sangria on offer. The new centre will be run by Jo Howard and native Spaniard Eva Oliver as part of La Jolie Ronde Languages for Children group." (The Star 7th October: http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/El-of-day-for-the.4562542.jp )
ESOL in the post-compulsory learning and skills sector: an evaluation: coverage of this report from Ofsted, says that "The quality of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) training is getting better, but a lot more needs to be done to ensure standards are lifted beyond ‘satisfactory’ levels." See: http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/Ofsted-home/News/Press-and-media/2008/October/Breaking-through-the-language-barrier for the press release, and links to the report. (WTYL 06/10/08)
Language learning website: http://www.ielanguages.com/ "This website is for anyone looking for free language resources in many of the Indo-European languages. Currently, there are 15 language tutorials available - three of which are not Indo-European languages*" Languages include: French/ French Slang/ Italian/ Spanish/ Portuguese/ German/ Dutch/ Swedish/ Norwegian/ Icelandic/ Faroese/ Russian/ Ukranian/ Croatian/ Finnish*/ Turkish*/ Indonesian*. (Librarians Internet Index weekly blog 25th Sept 2008: http://lii.org/)
BAMER outreach project: resources. This HR Advice and Support Project, funded by the Big Lottery, supports London's Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and Refugee (BAMER) Voluntary and Community Organisations. It promotes good practice, builds capacity and provides practical information in English and community languages. This includes a new essential employment menu – a guide to key human resources issues such as recruitment, disciplinary and grievance and dismissal (available in English, Somali and French) and an employment guide for supplementary schools. See: http://www.lvsc.org.uk/templates/information.asp?nodeid=97392&i1pnid=90016&i2pnid=90165 for more about BAMER and access to these resources. (WTYL 29/09/08 and Migrant and Refugee Communities Forum newsletter 20)
Multilingualism: an asset for Europe and a shared commitment http://ec.europa.eu/education/languages/news/news2853_en.htm In its new Communication, entitled Multilingualism: an asset for Europe and a shared commitment, the Commission gives an overview of what needs to be done to turn linguistic diversity into an asset for solidarity and prosperity. Languages help citizens to enter into dialogue with people from different cultural backgrounds and to realise their potential by making the most of opportunities for mobility and business openings. In its Communication, the Commission invites EU Member States and the other EU Institutions to join efforts to encourage and assist citizens in acquiring language skills and removing communication barriers. It proposes an approach which advocates including multilingualism across a whole series of EU policy areas. The policy document proposes a series of concrete actions related to these questions and foresees a review of the progress made in 2012. (WTYL 29/09/08)
“Refugees left lost in translation” http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/1065767_refugees_left_lost_in_translation_ “Botched translations are confusing refugee families trying to use public services, a linguist claims …” (WTYL 15/09/08)
Multikulti: Habitual Residence test and Right to Reside http://www.multikulti.org.uk/habitual-residence-test-and-right-to-reside/ Multikulti have updated their information in the following languages: English, Czech, Estonian, Hungarian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Slovenian, Slovak. (WTYL 15/09/08)
MyLanguage translation access website. http://www.mylanguage.gov.au/ My Language is a partnership between State Libraries around Australia and provides access to search engines, web directories and news in over sixty languages. There are other useful resources on the site – for example, guidance on internet basics in 16 different languages. See this page: http://www.mylanguage.gov.au/cgi-bin/training/index.cgi?id=5&sect_id=18&lvl2=1 For information on using the MyLanguage portal, with FAQs and How To guides to navigate issues with fonts, browsers and configuration in different languages see: http://www.mylanguage.gov.au/cgi-bin/support/index.cgi (WTYL 01/09/08 and Bill Bolloten, refugee education consultant)

Information Resources in Foreign Languages

Refugee Council Multilingual Advice Leaflets http://languages.refugeecouncil.org.uk/ There are two new free leaflets in multiple languages available to download from the Refugee Council multilingual website: Schools for children - information factsheet for refugee parents; Sexual health - information factsheet (WTYL 28/07/08)
EISODOS (Greek for entrance, gateway, access), is an online information resource aimed at those working in an advisory capacity with EU migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. EISODOS provides advisers with profiles of countries from which migrants have arrives, as well as general rules and regulations applicable to all migrants. There is specific information regarding living, working and studying in the UK. The latter is available in 23 languages and can be printed out for individual clients. (from and enquiry to WTYL 28/07/08)
Freepint have a discussion at the Freepint Bar on greetings in different languages: http://web.freepint.com/forum/bar/read.php?i=303576 (Freepint Newsletter No. 254 4th June 2008)
Ku Soo Dhawoow Maktabadaada – Welcome to Your Library! On the Lewiston, Maine, Public Library website, there is this short video in the Somali language with English subtitles, which provides information for the Somali community on how to use the library: http://lplonline.org/?page_id=494&preview=true (WTYL 26/05/08)
Asian language resources, includes general resources, lessons, pronunciation guides, online dictionaries, related software and fonts in over 25 Asian languages from Bengali to Vietnamese. This American website is part of a much wider range of resources available through the Asia Society: http://www.asiasociety.org/ (see top of Asia Society home page for box with “our sites” for options, including AskAsia, an educational resource site). http://www.asiasource.org/reference/language.cfm (WTYL 28/04/08)
On Feb 20th Phil Bradley's Weblog looked at the increasing use of Polish websites in this country and listed some useful resources. He suggests looking at an article by Hitwise: http://weblogs.hitwise.com/robin-goad/2008/02/uk_polish_internet_usage_on_th.html and has his own list of 39 Polish search engines: http://www.philb.com/cse/poland.htm On 18th Feb, he also gives a list of Kosovo search engines: http://www.philb.com/cse/kosova.htm , and Serbian search engines: http://www.philb.com/cse/serbia.htm (Phil Bradley's Weblog: http://philbradley.typepad.com/phil_bradleys_weblog/2008/02/uk-polish-inter.html and http://philbradley.typepad.com/phil_bradleys_weblog/2008/02/kosova-independ.html )
The UN General Assembly has declared 2008 The National Year of Languages. UNESCO is the lead agency for this and has a page on their website with a toolkit and list of projects: http://portal.unesco.org/culture/admin/ev.php?URL_ID=35344&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201 (Librarian's Internet Index 28.02.08)
Welcome poster and other useful resources (eg dual language books in audio version). Following the enquiry on the WTYL E-Digest 21 January about “welcome” signs in different languages, the intercultural resources page of the excellent website produced by Portsmouth EMAS (Ethnic Minority Achievement Service). resource has been added to the WTYL website. It is It includes a welcome poster, a list of the word for welcome in 325 languages and a “make it yourself” poster opportunity, suitable for Key Stages 1 and 2 in school and other materials which may well be of use in a library setting. This website has other material which may well be useful in a library setting: http://www.blss.portsmouth.sch.uk/resources/interc.shtml and http://www.welcometoyourlibrary.org.uk/informationResources.asp?cat_id=21 (WTYL 04/02/08)
The link to this video was circulated by Peter Dorfman, Provincial Coordinator, Settlement Workers in Schools - SWIS to the WTYL jiscmail list: http://www.settlement.org/edguide/videos/your_library.asp (It is intended for newcomers to Canada – province of Ontario.) Subsequently many members of the jiscmail list have been corresponding to suggest that an umbrella organisation such as CILIP or LLDA could produce a similar product for British libraries to link to (see the WTYL link under Background Reading on the Asylum Seekers & Refugees page to join this jiscmail list) (WTYL 16/01/08)
Meriam Webster [US] have produced a Visual Dictionary Online with 'definitions of "more 20,000 terms ... [and] more than 6,000 stunning illustrations of a wide variety of objects from all aspects of life." Also includes audio clips of pronunciations. Searchable, or browsable by topics: astronomy, earth, plants, animals, humans, food, housing, clothing, arts and architecture, communications, transportation and machinery, energy, science, society, and sports and games. From Merriam-Webster. Note: may not work properly in all browsers.' http://visual.merriam-webster.com/ (Librarians Internet Index 20/12/07: http://lii.org/ [American])
Multilingual information leaflet http://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/practice/multilingual/advisers/support/section4.htm Refugee Council multilingual information leaflet, 'Are you destitute and at the end of the asylum process?', has been updated to reflect changes in legislation and procedures. It can be downloaded in 19 languages. (WTYL 19/11/07 and Refugee Council e-newsletter 5 Nov 07)
Linda Collins, Multicultural Services Librarian, Portsmouth Central Library asked if anyone had produced library instructions, especially for joining the library, in Slovak through WTYL on 16/11/07. The following responses came in:
- Devon has done so: http://www.devon.gov.uk/lib04-introduction-slovak.pdf And see the full list of available languages is here: http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/culturetourism/libraries/languages.htm (Colin Bray, Adult Lending Services Manager, Devon Library Services)
- LibrariesWest have literature translated into 30 languages. Email Gilly to see the attachment showing the Slovak version (Tabitha Witherick, Senior Information Librarian, Leisure and Libraries, Development and Environment, North Somerset Council)
- Wolverhampton has but not in Slovak. Examples in other languages can be viewed at: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/leisure_culture/libraries/membership (Kal Dale, Ethnic Services Manager, Wolverhampton Libraries & Information Services)
- Rhondda Cynon Taff have joining instructions in 16 languages http://library.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk/pawb/ Edwina Smart (WTYL 16/11/07)

For children and teachers, Language Takes You Further is a Europe in the UK publication with examples of 25 European Languages: http://www.europe.org.uk/languages/ Also European Day of Languages [26th September] is an annual event run at all 30 Europe Direct Centres in the UK. Find your nearest Europe Direct Centre at http://www.europe.org.uk/infolinks/-/ctid/8/ (Freepint Issue 239 11th Oct 2007 www.freepint.com/issues/111007.htm ) [However, the Yorks & Humbs Europe Direct Centre in Leeds isn't on the list, so go to: europedirect@leeds.gov.uk; http://www.leeds.gov.uk/europedirect - Gilly]
Posters of Poems in praise of diversity - now free to Public Libraries. http://www.hyphen-21.org/publicsite/ Originally designed for doctors' waiting rooms, packs of A4 bi-lingual poster poems now available free of charge (but need to pay cost of postage) to schools and public libraries. [Email Gilly to receive PDFs of a) flyer (for schools, but equally relevant to public libraries) b) a two-year old newsletter article which explains what the collection is all about c) a list of the poems and languages available d) an example of one of the poems]. If you would like a single pack of 45 bilingual poems, please send a self-addressed A4 jiffy bag stamped to the value of £2.75 to: Rogan Wolf, Hyphen-21, Bishop Creighton House, 378 Lillie Road, Fulham, London SW6 7PHLithuanian is the 20th language now officially represented in Cardiff’s main library, thanks to a gift from the Lithuanian Ambassador: http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0200wales/
tm_method=full&objectid=19821668&siteid=50082-name_page.html (WTYL 15/10/07)
Free multi-lingual resources from the Refugee Communities History Project The Refugee Communities History Project has produced free learning resources based on interviews with refugees that have made the UK their home since the 1951 UN Refugee Convention. These free multi-lingual resources give young people the chance to learn about refugees experiences by listening to them tell their stories in their own words. They are suitable for ESOL classes and key stage 2, 3 and 4. For copies or further information please email refugeestories@evelynoldfield.co.uk or visit http://www.refugeestories.org/ (WTYL 17/09/07)
Talk To Your Baby has produced a series of quick tips for parents and practitioners to help children develop good talking and listening skills. Each sheet is available in thirteen languages. Copies can be downloaded from the above weblink and photocopied free of charge. http://www.literacytrust.org.uk/talktoyourbaby/quicktips.html?dm_i=142153346 [WTYL 06/08/07]
Connecting Communities. Recipes From Around The World West London Refugee Women's Forum has produced a very attractive, full colour multilingual recipe book. The book features 29 recipes in English with parallel text in mother tongue languages including Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Bosnian, Burmese, Chinese, Congolese, Farsi, Gujurati, Irish, Japanese, Norwegian, Romanian, Serbian, Slovakian, Spanish, Tamil, Thai, Tigrinya, Turkish, Twi. The book includes photographs of people, recipes, craftwork and cloth. The project, which aims to foster good relations between different communities and promote intercultural awareness and understanding, has been funded by the Community Development Foundation, Connecting Communities programme. Single copies are available free of charge to libraries, schools and community groups. To request a copy please email your contact details and the name of the organisation you are requesting a copy for to wlrefugeewomen@yahoo.co.uk. Free copies will be posted out whilst stocks last. Anyone wishing to acquire a copy for personal use, or from an overseas address, or multiple copies please contact Zibiah at the e-mail address above or phone +44 20 8970 2145 / (020) 8970 2145[WTYL 06/08/07]
IKWRO http://www.ikwro.org.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=4&Itemid=26 The Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation provides advice, support, advocacy and referral in Arabic, Kurdish and Farsi to help women, girls and men living in Britain. You may have seen recent positive press coverage in relation to their campaign to stop ‘honour killings’ [WTYL 10/09/07]
Ask the library: Information about the multilingual reference service in Sweden http://www.eref.se/se-admin/vrl_entry.asp?virtual_desk_id=48 Ask any reference question you like, and librarians from different libraries in Sweden will send you an answer by e-mail as soon as possible. The service is free. You do not have to be based in Sweden to use this service and it is available in the following languages: English, Spanish, Polish, Finnish, Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian, Russian, French, German, Persian and Arabic. The service is provided in co-operation with the Goethe Institute and the Cervantes Institute in Stockholm, the Finnish Ask the Library service and the Zentral und Landes Bibliothek in Berlin. WTYLJ 28/08/07 & Leena Mansson) Also see: http://www.fragabiblioteket.se/ (WTYLJ 03/09/07)
The Refugee Council have a multilingual website with help and advice: http://languages.refugeecouncil.org.uk/ (WTYLJ 03/09/07)
Dual language books in Slovak: Contact Matica Slovenska: http://www.matica.sk/ (Matica Slovenska is the Slovak cultural capital, in Martin, Slovakia). You may ask questions in English. or start off with: "Prosim, doufam ze muzete nam pomoc. Hledame detski dvou-jazyky knihy pro deti" [Czech but the Slovaks should understand it!] Then in English: We are looking for children's dual language books (Slovak English). (WTYL 21st Sept 06)
In most Central European countries you will find most American programmes/channels' versions dubbed in their own languages. Most popular one, Cartoon Network as below for Hungary, Poland and Romania. Not dubbed in any Eastern European countries, thus no website yet unfortunately. http://www.cartoonnetwork.hu/ (Hungarian) http://www.cartoonnetwork.pl/ Polish) http://www.cartoonnetwork.ro/ (Romanian) (WTYL 22nd Sept 06
Website in Hungarian with an extensive range of interactive games for all ages. http://www.freegames.hu (WTYL 22nd Sept 06)
Interactive websites etc. Try: Mamalisa online. international children's verse, games. (WTYL 21st Sept 06)

Books in Foreign Languages

Foreign language books now available at Coleg Powys A collection of around 98 foreign language books are now available from Coleg Powys Learning Resource Services. The collection includes books in Polish, Russian, Bengali, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Turkish, Czech, and Kurdish Kirmanji. Coleg Powys is part of Cadwyn y Canolbarth, a cooperative arrangement between different kinds of libraries in mid-Wales. Further information at: http://www.canolbarth.org.uk/lyc.php?page=news_item&item=1209080033. (WTYL 21/07/08)

OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) has launched a new Polish language book selection service in association with foreign-language bookseller Grant & Cutler, offering UK libraries quarterly booklists of fiction and non-fiction Polish language titles along with MARC records for uploading to library catalogues. See http://www.oclc.org/uk/en/polishlist/default.htm for details. (WTYL 16/06/08 & Library & Information Gazette, 2-15 May 08, p3)

The charity Bootrust have set up a new website focussed on translated fiction: www.translatedfiction.org.uk (UM 7 [6] June 2008 p8) Floricanto Press “publisher of books and digital products for the Hispanic markets in the United States and abroad, including popular reading and children’s materials, reference materials (dictionaries and thesauri), academic (history, psychology, and social sciences), educational, professional, literary, ESL, in English, English-Spanish bilingual, and Spanish.” See: http://www.floricantopress.com/ (WTYL 02/06/08)

The poetry project, Poems for … which produces packs of A4 bi-lingual poster poems (available free of charge – you just need to pay cost of postage – to schools and public libraries) has just launched its website: http://www.poemsfor.org/publicsite/ (WTYL 12/05/08)

Talking books in languages other than English In response to a WTYL enquiry of 17 March 2008, Kal Dale (Wolverhampton Libraries) has sent the following contacts for Indic languages: Sonex, 381 Whitton Ave East, Greenford, Middx. UB6 0JU Tel: 020 8422 5172 Email: sonex@talk21.com ; Tiger Books, 18 Thirlmere Ave, Perivale, Middx. UB6 8EF Tel: 020 8998 6896 Email: sksharma@aol.com. (WTYL 21/04/08)

Dual language books for adults In response to a WTYL enquiry, Graham Pollard (Tower Hamlets Idea Stores) sent the following reply from his contacts, Mrs R Mahbub from Ruposhi Bangla bookshop (http://www.ruposhibangla.co.uk/): DUAL-TEXT (Bengali & English in the same volume and next to each other): 1. Selected poems of Kazi Nazrul Islam, £4.00 2. Selected songs beyond melody by R. Tagore, £5.00 (English translation by Syed Mujibul Huq), 3. River Titas in images and words by O. Mamoon £25.00, 4. Secret kitchen of Tommy Miah, £24.00 ( with photographs), 5. Driving theory test for car drivers valid from Sept. 2007, £23.00, 6. Life in the United Kingdom - a citizenship study manual, £18.00, 7. Life in the UK citizenship test guide £13.99, 8. Rapidex English speaking course, £8.00; First half of the volume in Bengali and the other half in English: 1. Healthcare for Bangladeshis abroad, £7.00, 2. Geetanjali, £5.50; English & Bengali in two separate volumes: The white envelope/ The belated spring (WTYL 14/04/08)

Cumbria County Council's Library Service is set to receive dozens of children's Polish language books from the Zielona Gora public library in western Poland. In return, it will despatch 100 books to Poland to help children who are learning English as a second language. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cumbria/7240011.stm (WTYL 10/03/08)
English PEN have a section on their website devoted to Writers In Translation: http://www.englishpen.org/writersintranslation/

Using and researching dual language books for children
http://www.uel.ac.uk/education/research/duallanguagebooks/index.htm
The School of Education at the University of East London has a useful section on its website on the above topic (see weblink above). Includes link to Multilingual resources and also to relevant references and websites. http://www.uel.ac.uk/education/research/duallanguagebooks/publishers.htm also includes links to sites for stories from different cultures in a range of languages or in dual-text and multi-lingual activities and games. (WTYL 19/11/07)

Library books for migrant workers: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/tayside_and_central/6927765.stm
A national collection of library books in minority languages is to be set up in Scotland. It aims to improve services for migrant workers from places such as Eastern Europe and the far east. [WTYL 20/08/07 and Fiona O'Brien]

BookTrade Ltd www.booktradeltd.com Supplier of books, CDs etc from Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and also the Former Yugoslav Republic. [WTYL 04/06/07]

Norfolk-based Portuguese newspaper: http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/regions/cambridge/2006/11/355876.html (WTYL 5th Dec 2006)

World Language Books - WTYL list Members get a discount of 5% if they spend up to £250 and 10% if over that amount: all you have to do is register with them and they will send you a discount code included in your registration email. See: www.worldlanguagebooks.com (WTYL 14th Dec 2006)

Translation

One of 'My Favourite Tipples' by Tom Szczepanik in Freepint 255 is Google Translate ( http://www.google.com/translate_t ), "which recently added 10 new languages: Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Finnish, Hindi, Norwegian, Polish (at last!), Romanian and Swedish. You can mouse over text to view original language". (Freepint Issue 255)

Southend Library Service’s Polish translation service/ Nasze Essex (Our Essex) - Starting from Friday 6th June, Southend Central Library will begin holding a weekly Polish Translation Service each Friday in the Ground Floor Meetings Room (10.00am-2.00pm). In addition, Southend Libraries will also start to receive free copies of a new bi-monthly Polish magazine called Nasze Essex (Our Essex) [See: http://www.nasze-essex.co.uk/ but NB it's still being developed]. It has a wide range of listings and dual language articles, including information on services such as recycling, police, sport etc. (WTYL 09/06/08)

Kwintessential http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/ This company provides intercultural training and translation services. Its website includes a wealth of other resources such as country profiles, intercultural and cross cultural games and quizzes and an intercultural communication forum covering topics from cultural diversity to building a multilingual website. (WTYL 31/03/08)

Exiled Writers Ink Mentoring and Translation Scheme is being launched in “The Night of Exiled Writers”, Tues 29 April, 6.00-9.30pm, Amnesty International Action Centre UK, 17-25 New Inn Yard, London EC2A 3EA. The scheme will aim to give a high profile to translators who enable the work of exiled writers to become accessible: http://www.exiledwriters.co.uk/ (WTYL 31/03/08)

http://babelfish.altavista.com/ Free translation of text or website to and from a multitude of languages. (In My Favourite Tipple by Gia Marie Gorbold, Free Pint No 248 13th March 2008)

The WordReference Dictionaries are free online translation dictionaries. WordReference also runs language forums where, if you have a question about language usage, you can first search thousands of previous questions. The website also features a number of tools that allow people easier access to the dictionaries. These include the WordReference Toolbar for Internet Explorer, as well as plug-ins and modules for Firefox and Google (In My Favourite Tipple by Sarah Waddington, Free Pint No 249 26th March 2008)

Guidance for Local Authorities on Translation of Publications http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/580274 The Communities and Local Government Department has published new guidance on translation for local councils in England. (WTYL 17/12/07)

The newsletter, FreePint, 238, 27 September 2007 has a brief listing of translation websites and tools. http://www.freepint.com/issues/270907.htm?PHPSESSID=ed8a1cdd4b6dee93d905d9523770038e#favourites (WTYL 01/10/07

Language Identification Cards can be obtained from the National Interpreting Service: 020 7655 4655, enquiries@nisuk.co.uk or www.nisuk.co.uk

Language Direct 90 Matlock Road, Londond E10 6DJ offer interpretting, translation and transcription services to local authorities, government depts, and other public service organisations: 020 8539 5142, languagedirect@btinternet.com

English As a Second Language (ESOL)

World Library and Information Congress: 74th IFLA General Conference and Council "Libraries without borders: Navigating towards global understanding" http://www.ifla.org:80/IV/ifla74/Programme2008.htm 10-14 Aug, Quebec. There will be sessions on literacy & ESOL (WTYL 28/07/08)

Community Cohesion and Migration http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200708/cmselect/cmcomloc/369/369i.pdf The House of CommonsCommunities & Local Government Committee has just published the 10th report of the Session 2007/8. The report looks at the effects of migration on cohesion; pressures on local services; responding to migration locally (eg local leadership and integration) and nationally (eg number of bodies involved, need for the Government to improve its provision); Government funding; and concludes with some 32 recommendations. Although referring to the Government, the following is also of particular importance to us: “We have identified four areas where improvements are needed: the co-ordination of policy across departments; the spread of best practice; the provision of English language tuition; and policy on the integration of short-term economic migrants.” (Also of interest is that one of the meetings with stakeholders, in Barking & Dagenham, included the Head of Community Services, Libraries and Heritage). (WTYL 21/07/08)

Learning English – Volunteers Matter This guide, produced by NIACE (National Institute of Adult Continuing Education) is for organisations who work with volunteers to help English language learners, and for organisations wishing to extend their work in this area. It was commissioned by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS). NIACE worked with key third sector organisations earlier in 2008 to look at how volunteers can help English language learners gain the basic language skills they need to settle and integrate in the UK, and to progress to further learning and or employment. You can download the guide (which is in five parts) from: http://www.niace.org.uk/projects/volunteersmatter/Default.htm . (WTYL 29/06/08)

Update on ESOL consultation This is a very brief update statement from John Denham MP (the website also has links to consultation material): http://www.dius.gov.uk/press/ESOL.html (WTYL 23/06/08)

Skilled To Go developed by the Office of Fair Trading and LLU+ at London South Bank University, is a toolkit for tutors working in further education (Access 2 and 3/ Intermediate 1 and 2/ Entry 3, Level 1, Level 2, and includes suggestions for use with ESOL/ language learners). It aims to help develop transferable consumer skills, knowledge and confidence, using everyday consumer situations, such as choosing a mobile phone, as contexts for learning numeracy and literacy. For more information with link to launch events for teachers around the country, see: http://www.oft.gov.uk/oft_at_work/partnership_working/consumer-alliance/resources/toolkitfront/ (WTYL 23/06/08)

Refugee Council response to the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) consultation: Focusing English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) on Community Cohesion http://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/NR/rdonlyres/23675CD1-2113-4767-86BF-1FD8E9D3BCFC/0/Response_Department_Innovation_ESOL.pdf DIUS’ consultation Focusing English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) on Community Cohesion outlines proposals for national priority groups to guide ESOL delivery at a local level. The Refugee Council’s response (published April 08) provides recommendations for better supporting ESOL learning and provision. While welcoming aspects of the consultation, the response includes a number of concerns around how ESOL is linked to community cohesion, those groups currently excluded from mainstream provision and the need to strengthen funded ESOL delivery through the voluntary and community sector. (WTYL 14/04/08)

Serving non-English speakers in US public libraries: 2007 analysis of library demographics, services and programs http://www.ala.org/ala/olos/nonenglishspeakers/ Major study just published by the American Library Association to coincide with the Public Library Association conference in Minneapolis. It provides new information about library services and programmes developed for non-English speakers, including effectiveness of services, barriers to library use, most frequently used services and most successful library programs by language served. The Office for Literacy and Outreach Services and Public Programs Office will use the study data to develop advocacy and training tools for librarians. (WTYL 31/03/08)

Giving a first class service to users with English as second language, Mon 10th March 2008, Slough Library http://www.cilip.org.uk/specialinterestgroups/bysubject/branchmobile/events Course organised by CILIP’s Branch and Mobile Libraries Group for frontline library staff and their managers. It will include the viewpoints of some ESOL customers, help and advice from library service senior staff and a chance to meet the Managing Director of Bright Books, a specialist supplier followed by a forum and workshop format to exchange good practice. Full programme details and how to book at weblink above. (WTYL 28/01/08)

Scottish public library language survey. In collaboration with SLIC (the Scottish Library & Information Council), Scottish public library services are carrying out a consultation on the needs of library users whose first language is not English. The survey (which closes on 28 January) is available at: http://www.zoomerang.com/recipient/survey-intro.zgi?p=WEB227ABN4H5KG. (WTYL 21/01/08 & SLIC website, http://www.slainte.org.uk/slic/publibs/publibsindex.htm )

“The government is to target free English language classes on immigrants to England who have long-term needs. The tuition will be free for those on benefits, and aimed at long-standing residents whose English is still poor – rather than those who may not stay." http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/7170125.stm (WTYL 14/01/08)

Focusing English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) on community cohesion http://www.dius.gov.uk/publications/esol_consultation.pdf DIUS (the Dept for Innovation, Universities & Skills), are consulting on the proposition that “To foster community cohesion a new partnership approach to planning is necessary which targets English language provision at local need. We need a ‘whole community approach’ in which ESOL needs are considered as part of wider local planning arrangements such as Local Area Agreements and City Strategies.” A leaflet outlining the proposals (and with the questions to answer) is available at the above web-link. To respond, use the DIUS website: http://www.esolconsultation.org.uk/. Also see: See response from the Refugee Council: http://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/news/press/2008/January/20080107_a and: http://education.guardian.co.uk/tefl/story/0,,2235400,00.html (WTYL 14/01/08)

In October, DIUS launched a suite of new ESOL qualifications to support people at work whose first language isn’t English, and their employers. There is a leaflet describing the new qualifications at: http://www.dfes.gov.uk/readwriteplus/bank/3687_ESOL_leaflet_A4_AW.pdf (WTYL 14/01/08)

Refugees’ experiences of integration: policy related findings on employment, ESOL and vocational training http://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/NR/rdonlyres/E635A530-65DC-40C4-9594-CD7117E3A421/0/Integration_employment.pdf New report from the Refugee Council and the University of Birmingham which “presents findings concerning employment, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and vocational training from a two-year qualitative study of Refugees’ Experiences of Integration, carried out in partnership by the Refugee Council and the University of Birmingham.” (WTYL 09/12/07 & Refugee Council newsletter, 3 December 2007)

Provision of ESOL in Scotland http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/202792/0054073.pdfThe Scottish Government has just published research which looks at the impact of EU enlargement and the introduction of the UK Citizenship Test on provision of ESOL in Scotland. The key findings are at the above web-link; the full report is at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/202773/0054072.pdf. (WTYL 26/11/07)
Gatehouse Books http://www.gatehousebooks.co.uk/ Publishes adult beginner reader books and resources for use in Adult Literacy and ESOL. Their growing portfolio not only includes books but also audio-cassettes, interactive CD-ROMs and educational resources suitable for adult and post-14 basic skills learners. (WTYL 29/10/07)
Intute (formerly RDN) Virtual Training Suite launches free Internet tutorial for Learners of English as a Second Language (ESOL). Access the tutorial from: http://www.vts.intute.ac.uk/fe/tutorial/esol/ The Virtual Training Suite is part of Intute (http://www.intute.ac.uk/), an online catalogue of Internet resources for teachers, researchers and students designed to guide them to the best of the Web for their subject area. For further information about the VTS or Intute please contact: Virtual Training Suite: Emma Place 0117 928 7183, Intute: Mark Williams (020) 7848 2501
Teaching basic literacy to ESOL learners: a teacher’s guide
Covers every aspect of literacy in ESOL, including reading, writing, materials, and assessment. Flyer with order info at: http://www.lsbu.ac.uk/lluplus/docs/a_teachers_guide_flyer.pdf. [WTYL 11/06/07]
Launch Of Final Report From The Committee Of Inquiry Into ESOL: Tuesday 3 October 2006, Abbey Community Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3BU: Conference Fee: £85 per person which includes a free copy of the Report (priced at £24.95). If you would like to reserve a place on Conference Ref C13-75 on-line and view the programme for the day, visit the NIACE website: http://www.niace.org.uk/Conferences/esol.htm Inquiries to: Gurjit Kaur on Tel: 0116 204 2833 mailto:gurjit.kaur@niace.org.uk (WTYL 29/08/06)
Produced by the Basic Skills Agency, Citizenskills is a multimedia resource for developing English language in the context of citizenship. Comprising a CD-ROM with information, a glossary, interactive and print-based materials, teacher guidance, suggestions for additional activities and a scene-builder tool for constructing dialogues, it will be relevant to ESOL teachers working with asylum seekers, refugees and other recent arrivals to the UK. [WTYL 04/06/07]
Sheffield College's Skills for Business programme based at Hillsborough College includes ESOL for Professionals: 0114 260 2600 or 07795 128104 or skillsforbusiness@sheffcol.acuk

Computer Software

The WTYL he Digest for 14/01/08 asked if anyone had used TalkingPEN ™ http://www.talkingpen.co.uk/ yet. Louise Chadwick (National Development Manager Inclusion & Family Learning, Booktrust) has emailed to say that there is web-based information about a new Sure Start Resources Ltd product, “Sing, Sign & Rhyme”: http://www.surestartresources.co.uk/pages/news.html , developed in conjunction with the Lancashire Early Years team, in which children can activate songs using a TalkingPen (carefully disguised as a robust large chubby crayon!). (WTYL 05/05/08)
Two further responses to WTYL enquiry about word processing software: Peter Dorfman says: "Microsoft Word is the most adaptable software for multilingual use. With some South Asian languages you have to be careful to choose fonts that can be embedded." and Elaine Bradshaw says: "For those of us with no money! There is a website called www.gate2home.com which offers virtual keyboards in lots of languages. They allow people to search Google and Wikipedia or send emails in their own language script. For some languages, you can also cut and paste text to use it as a basic word processor." (WTYL 25/03/08)
In response to an enquiry in WTYL digest of 18th Feb asking about word processing software in different languages, Zahir Ahmed (Multicultural Advisor, Leeds Library Service) replied: "We in Leeds use a software called (Global Writer - unitype) at some of our branches. It allows the user to type in over 100 languages through a keyboard that appears on the screen. We purchased the software from a company in Yorkshire called Lingua ( www.lingua-uk.com ). It may cost a few hundred pounds depending on how many licenses you apply for or purchase. There maybe other products around also therefore it would be better to research all before purchasing." (WTYL 17/03/08)

Plain English & Picture Resources

IDeA have updated their very useful guidance on using Plain English: http://www.idea.gov.uk/idk/core/page.do?pageId=8021380 (WTYL 09/06/08)
This is a new category and there are picture resources included in sections above - I'll relocate them down here in due course - Gilly
Maternity access and advocacy pack The Reaching Out Project, Medact, aims to improve access to maternity services for highly marginalised Black and minority ethnic women, including refugees, asylum seekers, women with little or no English and women with insecure immigration status. It has now released the Maternity Access and Advocacy Pack. The Pack is a picture-based resource which aims to improve access to maternity services. It is designed for use by community organisations, rather than on an individual basis and is intended to reach pregnant women and influential individuals within communities. Boxes of 40 are available on request to organisations that can distribute to relevant community organisations in their area. More information see: http://www.medact.org/reaching_out_maap.php or contact maap@medact.org or 020 7324 4737. (WTYL 26/05/08 and Women’s Asylum News, produced by Asylum Aid)