Tag Archives: AATSP

247: Language Learning Through Music and Film with Sybil Sanchez Jacome


Do you use songs and films with your students? Do you have some go-to activities that you normally do, but could maybe use some new ideas?  In this episode I’m joined by Sybil Sanchez Jacome, a Spanish teacher in New Jersey and the president-elect of AATSP. We explore how music and film can move beyond being classroom “extras” to become meaningful sources of input, culture, and communication. Sybil shares practical ideas for choosing the right materials, keeping listening and viewing purposeful, and designing tasks that help students move from enjoying a song or scene to actually using the language with confidence.

Topics in this Episode:

  • how music and film can be essential tools for language learning and cultural understanding rather than just an “extra”
  • how teachers can use music and film to support comprehension and communication
  • selecting music and film that are age-appropriate, culturally meaningful, and effective for language learning and pitfalls teachers should try to avoid when choosing materials
  • tasks or routines that help move students from just simply enjoying music or film to actually using the language in meaningful ways, and what this looks like at the novice and more advanced levels
  • a simple strategy teachers can try right away
  • advice to build confidence in using music and film regularly

Connect with Sybil Sanchez Jacome:

A Few Ways We Can Work Together:

Connect With Me & The World Language Classroom Community:

Follow wherever you listen to podcasts.

173: ACTFL 2024: Connect for the Love of Languages!


This is an exciting episode that I recorded live at the 2024 ACTFL Convention and Language Expo in Philadelphia! This year’s ACTFL theme, “Connect for the Love of Languages!”, highlights the importance of building meaningful connections in every aspect of language teaching. In this episode, you’ll hear from inspiring educators and leaders who share strategies for connecting with students, fostering cultural understanding, and growing professional networks. These conversations, that we had at the Klett World Languages booth in the exhibit hall, capture the energy and passion of language educators united by their love of teaching and learning.

Teachers and leaders who join me for this conversation:

  • Caroline Schlegel, Spanish teacher at Frederick County Public Schools (MD)
  • Aubrey Swisher, Spanish teacher at Washington County Public Schools (MD)
  • Sara Stefanich, Professional Development Coordinator at Klett World Languages
  • Maria Carreira, Executive Director of AATSP
  • Patrick Wallace, Program Specialist for World Languages and Global Workforce Initiatives (GA); Strategic Relationship Specialist at Klett World Languages

Topics in this Episode:

  • The Importance of Connection in Language Learning
  • Strategies for Connecting with Students
  • Building Cultural Connections
  • Professional Connections and Teacher Community
  • The Love of Language Teaching

Work with Joshua either in person or remotely.

Teachers want to hear from you and what you are proud of in your classroom.
Join me as a guest on the podcast.

Follow wherever you listen to podcasts.