Development of productive language skills through language exchange in primary schools in Switzerland – An exploratory intervention study

Abstract The present study examined the effect of language exchange activities on development productive foreign skills primary school pupils. sample comprised a total 392 pupils from German- and French-speaking Switzerland, attending 5th 6th grade. pupils’ speaking writing were longitudinally using quasi-experimental pre-test post-test design with an intervention control group. lasted one year included two physical reunions partner class, as well preparatory follow-up activities. German-speaking assessed at beginning end communicative tasks. data was analysed by means multiple regression analysis. Results show that had positive impact their general competence, measured C-test. However, no significant skills. findings suggest even short encounters level beginners have potential to spur if they are didactically embedded.