Integrating Content and Language: How CLIL Prepares Griggs High School Students for Global Success

CLIL is a dual-focused educational approach where students learn subjects like science, history, or mathematics through a second language—often English. Rather than studying language and content separately, CLIL helps students build academic knowledge and language fluency at the same time. This means that a student might study environmental science while simultaneously developing the vocabulary, communication skills, and critical thinking needed to discuss complex topics in English.

International universities increasingly value applicants who can thrive in multicultural, multilingual environments. Through CLIL, our students gain:

✓Academic Language Proficiency: Writing essays, giving presentations, and engaging in debates in English prepares students for the demands of university-level coursework.

✓Higher-Order Thinking Skills: CLIL tasks often involve analysis, evaluation, and problem-solving—skills that are crucial for success in higher education.

✓Global Perspective: Learning subjects through a second language often brings a more international context to the curriculum, encouraging students to see issues from multiple viewpoints.

·Confidence and Adaptability: Students become more comfortable expressing themselves in academic settings, which makes the transition to studying abroad much smoother.

In our classrooms, CLIL is not a separate subject—it’s woven into how we teach. Teachers design courses that naturally integrate language goals with content goals.

For example, a history project might focus on analyzing primary sources in English, while also teaching historical thinking and research methods.

Assessments are adapted to reflect both understanding of the subject and effective communication in English.

We also provide scaffolding to support all learners. From visual aids and vocabulary prompts to collaborative group work, students are guided to succeed in both the language and the subject matter.

Whether students have studied in a full Griggs high school diploma program, or dual diploma program, graduates of our programs have gone on to receive offers from top universities around the world including Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Colombia University, and Dartmouth College as well as renowned international universities including University College London, University of Edinburgh, Durham University, University of Toronto, and the University of Sydney. Students leave a Griggs program equipped not only with strong academic credentials but also the communication skills and cultural awareness to thrive in diverse learning environments. More than just language learners, our students become global changers—ready to participate, contribute, and lead.

Full Diploma Program  

(Students receive the American High School Diploma at the end of their full time American high school studies.）

Dual Diploma Program 

(Students take at least 6 credits with Griggs to earn both the local high school diploma and American high school diploma.）