The basis of CLIL is that content subjects are taught and learnt in a language which is not the mother tongue of the learners.
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Knowledge of the language becomes the means of learning content
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Language is integrated into the broad curriculum.
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Learning is improved through increased motivation and the study of natural language seen in context. When learners are interested in a topic they are motivated to acquire language to communicate
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CLIL is based on language acquisition rather than enforced learning.
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Language is seen in real-life situations in which students can acquire the language. This is natural language development which builds on other forms of learning.
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CLIL is long-term learning. Students become academically proficient in English after 5-7 years in a good bilingual programme.
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Fluency is more important than accuracy and errors are a natural part of language learning. Learners develop fluency in English by using English to communicate for a variety of purposes.