This study aims to demonstrate the integration of character education with content and language integrated learning (CLIL) and evaluate its effects on the English language learning and character development of young learners who use EFL. Eight participants received character-integrated CLIL instruction over 16 class sessions. Employing a mixed-method approach, this study collected qualitative data primarily through observations, interviews, portfolios, self-assessments, and peerassessments, complemented by quantitative data from English tests and questionnaires. Findings revealed that character-integrated CLIL significantly enhanced learners’ oral language skills, confidence, and engagement in learning English. Additionally, it facilitated simultaneous development of language proficiency and subject knowledge, while promoting acquisition of positive character traits. The learner-centered environment supported by teacher scaffolding and authentic materials allowed learners to apply their knowledge to real-life situations. These results provide educators with a model for effectively integrating character education into language learning. They also highlight the broader potential of CLIL to foster holistic learner development.

The purpose of this study is to design an instructional model based on CLIL (Content Language Integrated Learning) theory for effective language learning. The study findings reveal the following three points. First, context-oriented foreign language education is possible, if we have well-edited authentic materials that match the level of the students, and implement the relevant materials as classroom activities that covered 4C (Content, Cognition, Communication, Culture) through sophisticated placement of content-language integration methods. Second, changes in evaluation methods can affect the studying style of learners. Since the process of output can only be actively utilized if the input is repeated, if we provide an desirable evaluation method so that the repetition process can focus on acquiring meaningful language information, this will help learners make more active use of the target language. Third, foreign language education could expand learners’ thinking skills. Content-language integrated learning is sufficient to help students to understand other cultures and compare/analyze the educational contents based on respect for cultural diversity. Through this all learning activities based on CLIL theory, language learners can also develop their critical thinking skills.