Have you ever noticed how students light up when language learning feels real, active, and connected to their world? In this episode, I’m joined by Heidi Lechner, an inspiring German teacher and instructional coach in Illinois. Heidi shares how hands-on, student-centered activities keep learners motivated, curious, and communicating authentically. We’ll talk about why teachers benefit from stepping into the learner’s shoes, how collaboration transforms language use, and strategies you can use to make your classroom come alive.
Topics in this Episode:
- activities that spark curiosity and keep students motivated in the German classroom
- Why it’s important for educators to experience activities from the student perspective and how can shift shift the way they teach
- strategies to move students beyond individual practice into authentic, communicative tasks with their peers
- examples of how to help students see themselves in the content and connect the language to real-world contexts
- Klett World Languages Sessions at ACTFL
Connect with Heidi Lechner:
- Email:
A Few Ways We Can Work Together:
- Ready For Tomorrow Quick Win PD for Individual Teachers
- On-Site or Virtual Workshops for Language Departments
- Self-Paced Program for For Language Departments
Connect With Me & The World Language Classroom Community:
- Website: wlclassrom.com
- Instagram: @wlclassroom
- Facebook Group: World Language Classroom
- Facebook: /wlclassroom
- LinkedIn: Joshua Cabral
- Bluesky: /wlclassroom.bsky.socia
- X (Twitter): @wlclassroom
- Threads: @wlclassroom
Follow wherever you listen to podcasts.
