Are you sometimes challenged by students being off task or not transitioning well between activities? Today’s episode is a Leveling Up episode, where I coach Victoria, a Spanish teacher in Virginia. Creating smooth transitions and keeping students on task more consistently is the area where wants to level up her teaching practice. So let’s start the conversation.
- Suggestions:
- Keep consistent with transition and attention-getting techniques so that students get used to the routines and know what to expect.
- Use the Clase/Si technique and don’t give too many directions and steps all at once.
- Make sure that activities are planned according to the time needed and the proficiency level. When this is out of balance there are potential opportunities for students to get off task.
- Post the plan and agenda for the class so that students know what to expect.
- Offer praise and acknowledgment to those who are on task. Redirect the class’s attention to the task at hand, emphasizing the positive behavior you want to see.
Action Plan:
This Week:
- Look for the places where transition techniques would be useful and choose the 3-4 techniques that you will use consistently.
The Coming Weeks:
- Design and implement formative practice activities related to the selected IPA unit.
- Administer the IPA for the selected unit, using the rubric to evaluate students’ performance.
Helpful Podcast Episodes on This Topic:
- #56: Backwards Design and Planning
- #76: Interpersonal Activities with Meredith White
- #82: Engaging Language Activities With Wendy Mercado & Valérie Greer
Helpful Blog Posts on This Topic:
You can also be a part of Leveling Up coaching episode if there is an area of your teaching that you like to improve or enhance. Join me on the podcast for a Leveling Up Coaching Episode.
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