Tag Archives: ACTFL Core Practices

111: Comprehension-Based Communicative Language Teaching

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What have you heard about Comprehension-Based Communicative Language Teaching?  Is this what you are doing in your classroom?  In this episode I want to unpack exactly what CCLT is and is not. Luckily there is an incredibly useful chapter on this topic in the newly published book “Honing Our Craft.”  It gives us all the info we need to answer the question “What is and What Is not Comprehension-Based Communicative Language Teaching?”  That’s actually the title of chapter 4.

Honing Our Craft

  • Edited by Dr. Florecia Henshaw (Director of Advanced Spanish at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign) & Dr. Kim Potowski (Professor of Spanish Linguistics at the University of Illinois at Chicago)
  • 12 chapters written by educators for educators, with a focus on bridging the gap between research and practical application.
  • Practical applications and suggestions for language educators that they can adapt to their particular contexts. 
  • Use this link and the discount code JOSHUA25HOC to save 25% on the book.

Comprehension-Based Communicative Language Teaching(CCLT)

Context and Origin of CCLT

  • Role of Input
  • Krashen’s Input Hypothesis
  • Interaction and production also play a role, but the essential role of input is undeniable.
  • Presentation-Practice-Production (PPP)
    • popular because it is conceptually easy to understand
    • easy to grade and assess
    • accuracy is main criteria for success
  • Approaches need to be more aligned with how language is acquired (communication and understanding messages) and implicit knowledge, rather than explicit, PPP

Key Terms and Misconceptions

  • Communication is not synonymous with oral production (reflection of PPP)
  • move input to the center of the curriculum 
  • Production and Grammar are not neglected (focus on form, structured input)

Suggestions

  • What if my textbook follows the PPP approach?
    • modify activities to give hace a communicative goal
    • use the text in a chapter as a point of departure
  • What if my exams are grammar-based?
    • set aside time for grammar explanation 
    • promote friendly conversations with colleagues.
  • Do…
    • speak the target language most of the class time.
    • make input activities meaningful
  • Don’t…
    • forget that accuracy is developed gradually
    • forget comprehension is communication
    • plan classes around grammar points, grammar is a tool, not a goal

Remember to use this link and the discount code JOSHUA25HOC to save 25% on the book.

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.

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.  

Follow wherever you listen to podcasts.

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10 Tips for (Language) Classroom Management

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Have you ever found yourself in a classroom where the atmosphere was so positive and engaging that you couldn’t help but feel excited about learning? Have you wondered how some language teachers seem to effortlessly manage their classrooms while fostering a sense of community and respect among their students? Classroom management is a critical aspect of language education. Let’s explore 10 effective ways of creating a positive language learning environment. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting, these practical suggestions will help you build a classroom where language proficiency and mutual respect thrive.

10 Tips for Language Classroom Management (French, Spanish)

Understanding the Importance of Classroom Management

Before we dive into specifics, let’s reflect on why effective classroom management is vital in the language classroom. A well-managed classroom not only ensures a conducive learning environment but also nurtures a positive and inclusive atmosphere. It sets the stage for:

  • Maximized Learning Opportunities: When students feel safe and respected, they are more likely to actively engage in language activities, leading to better language acquisition.
  • Effective Communication: Clear expectations and routines promote effective communication, helping students understand what’s expected of them and how to succeed.
  • Building Confidence: Positive classroom management boosts students’ confidence, encouraging them to take risks and participate in language tasks.

Strategies for a Positive Language Learning Environment

Now, let’s look at 10 classroom management strategies that can enhance your language classroom:

1. Establish Clear Guidelines: Create a set of clear and concise guidelines that outline classroom expectations, rules, and consequences. Share these guidelines with your students at the beginning of the school year or course. This provides a framework for behavior and helps prevent disruptions. Focus on the positive and the type of environment that you want to create.

2. Foster a Sense of Belonging: Cultivate a classroom atmosphere where students feel like they belong. Encourage open communication, active listening, and inclusivity. When students feel connected to their peers and the teacher, they are more likely to engage positively.

3. Use Positive Language: Promote positive interactions by modeling and using positive language. Praise and acknowledge students’ efforts and accomplishments. Encourage them to do the same with their peers, creating a supportive and uplifting atmosphere.

4. Implement Active Learning: Engage students in hands-on and interactive activities that require them to use the target language actively. These activities can range from role-playing and simulations to group projects and debates. Active learning keeps students motivated and involved.

5. Encourage Self-Reflection: Incorporate moments of self-reflection in your lessons. Prompt students to think about their language learning progress, strengths, and areas for improvement. This self-awareness helps them take ownership of their learning journey.

6. Set Realistic Goals: Work with your students to set achievable language learning goals. These goals can be short-term, like mastering a specific structure, or long-term, such as reaching a certain proficiency level. Having clear objectives keeps students motivated.

7. Create a Comfortable Physical Environment: Arrange your classroom to be comfortable and conducive to learning. Ensure adequate lighting, seating arrangements that facilitate communication, and a well-organized learning space. A comfortable environment positively impacts students’ focus.

8. Incorporate Authentic Materials: Integrate authentic materials from the target language culture into your lessons. These can include songs, videos, books, and news articles. Authentic materials provide real-world context and make language learning more engaging.

9. Promote Collaborative Learning: Encourage collaboration among students by assigning group projects and activities. Collaborative learning allows students to practice language skills while working together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement.

10. Emphasize Growth Over Perfection: Shift the focus from perfection to growth. Encourage students to embrace mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve. Celebrate their progress, no matter how small, and reinforce the idea that language learning is a journey.

Creating a positive language learning environment through effective classroom management is a journey that evolves with each class. By implementing these strategies tailored to various proficiency levels, you’ll be well on your way to fostering a classroom where language proficiency, respect, and confidence thrive.

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Vertical Curriculum in World Language Programs

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Have you ever found yourself wondering how to ensure your language students have a solid foundation and continue to thrive as they progress through grade levels?  Language educators often grapple with this question as they strive to provide the best possible language learning experience for their students. We’re going to explore an effective solution – Vertical Curriculum.

Vertical Curriculum in World Language Classes (French, Spanish)

What Exactly is Vertical Curriculum Alignment?

Vertical Curriculum is like building a strong foundation for a language house. Each level adds a layer of skills and knowledge that supports the next. Imagine trying to put on the roof before laying the walls – it just wouldn’t work! This alignment is essential because it ensures students are building on what they’ve learned, continuously building on their skills.

In a well-aligned curriculum, students in lower grades may start with basic vocabulary and sentence structure. As they progress to higher grade levels, they can confidently take on more complex structures and vocabulary, such as discussing literature, culture, and global issues.

Benefits for Students and Teachers

When a curriculum is aligned vertically students benefit from a seamless transition between grade levels, preventing gaps in their language learning. A student who grasps basic conversational skills in middle school can confidently approach more advanced topics, such as discussing literary works when they reach high school.

Teachers also benefit from a well-aligned curriculum. Collaboration across grade levels becomes more accessible as educators share common language around student progress and instructional strategies.

What Is Involved in Vertical Curriculum?

Scope and Sequence

  • A well-structured scope and sequence act as a roadmap for language learning and acquisition. It defines not only what topics are taught, but also when they are introduced.
  • At the novice-low level, students may explore basic vocabulary related to greetings and introductions, while at the intermediate-high level, they get into complex topics such as literature analysis.

Language Skills Progression

  • Language skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing, are interdependent and build upon one another.
  • Novice-level students may begin with simple listening and speaking activities  and  gradually progress to reading short texts and writing basic sentences as they advance to the intermediate level.

Vocabulary and Grammar Development

  • Vocabulary serves as the building blocks of language, while grammar provides the structural framework. Effective vertical curriculum alignment ensures that students learn vocabulary and grammar progressively.
  • The teaching of common French verbs like “to be” and “to have” at the novice level paves the way for more complex verb conjugations at higher proficiency levels.

How Do We Create a Vertical Curriculum?

Collaboration among Teachers

  • Collaboration among teachers from various grade levels is a cornerstone of vertical curriculum alignment. Imagine a group of teachers, from elementary to high school, coming together to discuss their teaching strategies. They can identify common challenges, share successful activities, and collectively enhance their curriculum alignment.

Vertical Team Meetings

  • Vertical team meetings are like a roundtable discussion where educators from different grade levels gather to exchange ideas and experiences. These meetings can be instrumental in streamlining curriculum alignment efforts.

Assessment Consistency

  • Consistency in assessment methods and criteria is paramount in vertical curriculum alignment. A shared understanding of assessment practices ensures that students are evaluated fairly and accurately across grade levels.
  • Teachers collaboratively develop rubrics for assessment that outline specific criteria for language elements such as proficiency level text type and vocabulary usage.
  • With consistent assessment criteria in place, students can track their progress from one year to the next, providing them with a clear sense of their language development.

How Can We Address Some Challenges?

Time and Resources

  • Aligning curriculum across grade levels can be time-consuming, but there are strategies to streamline the process. For instance, utilizing digital platforms for collaborative lesson planning can save educators significant time. Teachers can collectively design lessons, share resources, and ensure alignment without the need for lengthy meetings and emails.

Resistance to Change

  • Change can be challenging, but it can also lead to exciting advancements in language education. One way to address resistance to change is to gradually introduce new teaching strategies or technologies.

Action Steps for Language Teachers

Self-Assessment

  • To begin the journey of vertical curriculum alignment, language teachers can conduct a self-assessment of their existing curriculum. This involves reviewing the curriculum, identifying gaps or misalignments, and highlighting areas that require adjustment or enhancement.

Small-Scale Alignment

  • Language teachers can start small by selecting a single unit or theme and ensuring it aligns seamlessly across grade levels.
  • For example, if 7th-grade students study family members, teachers can ensure that 8th-grade students can build on that foundation by discussing family relationships more extensively in the following year.
  • This approach allows educators to focus on refining specific aspects of the curriculum without feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of a complete overhaul.

Conclusion…and Then It’s Your Turn

Vertical curriculum alignment in world language classes is an effective way to support students’ language proficiency. It creates a structured and cohesive progression of skills and knowledge, benefiting both students and teachers. By embracing collaboration, consistent assessment practices, and a growth mindset, language teachers can create a strong foundation for their students’ language learning journey.

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Preparing for AP Success Beginning at the Novice Level

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Do you have AP language classes in your program?  When do you begin focusing on the linguistic and cultural competence skills that students will need to succeed at this level? A Pre-AP focus can be quite beneficial in the language learning process, fostering critical skills and mindsets early on. Whether students pursue a language at the AP level or not, these skills not only enhance and support academic success, but  they also cultivate confidence and competence.

Preparing for AP Success Beginning at the Novice Level (French, Spanish)

Let’s look at the benefits of integrating Pre-AP strategies and curriculum into language program curriculum and objectives. These provide students with a strong foundation for their language learning pursuit.  They will be well-equipped to succeed in an AP class, or, if they don’t follow that route, they will still have the skills needed to communicate effectively and with confidence.

Building Strong Language Foundations

To pave the path for success, emphasizing core language skills—Interpersonal Speaking Interpretive Listening and Reading, Presentational Speaking and Writing—is pivotal in lower-level classes. These skills are the foundation of language proficiency and serve as the building blocks for advanced language studies. Incorporating authentic resources, such as news articles, videos, and podcasts, enriches language learning experiences. Students greatly benefit from exposure to real-world materials, providing a glimpse into how language operates in authentic contexts.

Cultivating Critical Thinking

Even at lower proficiency levels, cultivating critical thinking skills is attainable. In lower-level classes, introduce basic analysis and synthesis abilities. For instance, encourage students to analyze short texts or compare different viewpoints on straightforward topics. Questioning techniques play a pivotal role in promoting critical thinking. Pose thought-provoking questions that urge students to delve deeper into a text’s meaning, nurturing thoughtful discussions and enhancing overall comprehension.

Integrating AP Themes in Lower-Level Classes

Delaying the exploration of AP themes until AP classes is not necessary.

Beauty and Aesthetics

  • At lower proficiency levels, you can introduce discussions on topics like art, music, and cultural expressions. Challenge students to describe a famous painting using simple vocabulary and then compare their interpretations.

Science and Technology

  • Basic science and technology-related vocabulary can be introduced . Have students read simplified news articles about technological advancements and discuss their implications in the target language.

Personal and Public Identities

  • Exploring personal interests and identities is relevant at any proficiency level. In a straightforward “About Me” presentation activity, students can introduce themselves and share their hobbies.

Families and Communities

  • Family structures and communities are universal topics that can be discussed even with basic language skills. Encourage students to create posters representing a community event or a family gathering.

Global Challenges

  • Basic global challenges, like environmental issues, can be introduced in lower-level classes. For instance, students can engage in dialogues discussing simple ways to contribute to solving these challenges.

Contemporary Life

  • Everyday life topics are relatable for all learners. Consider a role-play activity where students simulate common situations like ordering food at a restaurant using basic conversational phrases.

Differentiation and Inclusion

Acknowledge the diverse learning needs in your classes. Implement strategies that cater to various learning styles and skill levels. Tiered assignments serve as an excellent approach to adapting tasks to different proficiency levels, challenging advanced learners while providing extra support for those who require it.

Your Turn…

The advantages of focusing on these “AP skills” extends beyond advanced content; it lays a solid foundation for language learners. By integrating these strategies and curriculum into lower-level classes, educators equip students with the tools and mindset required for success in advanced language courses. Try out these suggestions and tailor them to your unique classroom contexts as you empower students to grow in proficiency and reach higher levels of cultural competence.

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Strategies for Effective Error Correction in the Language Classroom

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In the communicative language classroom, nurturing effective communication and language proficiency takes precedence. While linguistic accuracy plays a role, the primary objective is conveying meaning and facilitating genuine interactions. Let’s look at some strategies for providing constructive error correction, focusing on meaningful communication. We’ll address different proficiency levels, from novice to intermediate, and provide examples.

Selective Correction

Prioritize corrections that hinder comprehension or effective communication.

Novice Level (French):

  • Student: “Je aller à l’école hier.”
  • Feedback: “C’est bien que tu parles du passé, mais il faut dire ‘Je suis allé(e) à l’école hier.’ Bon travail!”

Intermediate Level (Spanish):

  • Student: “Yo vio una película anoche.”
  • Feedback: “Es genial que estés usando el pasado, pero recuerda decir ‘Yo vi una película anoche.’ Sigue así.”

Recasting

Rephrase errors without explicitly pointing them out, allowing students to self-correct.

Novice Level (French):

  • Student: “Je mangé pizza hier.”
  • Recasting (French): “Ah, tu as mangé de la pizza hier?”
  • Student’s Self-correction: “Oui, j’ai mangé de la pizza hier.”

Intermediate Level (Spanish):

  • Student: “Nosotros ir a la playa el fin de semana pasado.”
  • Recasting (Spanish): “¿Ustedes fueron a la playa el fin de semana pasado?”
  • Student’s Self-correction: “Sí, nosotros fuimos a la playa el fin de semana pasado.”

Error Logs

Encourage students to maintain error logs, promoting self-awareness and self-correction.

Novice Level (French):

  • Student: Repeatedly forgets to use articles (e.g., “J’aime manger pizza.”)
  • Error Log Entry: “Oublié les articles. Je dois dire ‘J’aime manger de la pizza.'”

Intermediate Level (Spanish):

  • Student: Confuses verb tenses (e.g., “Hoy yo comió pescado.”)
  • Error Log Entry: “Confundí los tiempos verbales. Debo decir ‘Hoy yo comí pescado.'”

Delayed Correction

Provide feedback after speaking activities, allowing students to focus on communication during the task.

Novice Level (French):

  • Activity: Role-play at a restaurant where students take on the roles of server and customer.
  • Feedback (after activity): “Bravo! Vous avez bien communiqué vos commandes. Maintenant, faisons une petite correction. ‘Je voudrais une salade’ est la phrase correcte.”

Intermediate Level (Spanish):

  • Activity: Group discussion about vacation plans.
  • Feedback (after activity): “Excelente discusión. Han utilizado bien el pretérito perfecto compuesto. Ahora, algunas correcciones: ‘Voy a visitar a mi familia’ es la frase correcta.”

Effective error correction in the communicative language classroom revolves around balancing meaningful communication and linguistic accuracy. By applying these strategies tailored to students’ proficiency levels, teachers can empower their students to communicate confidently while continually improving their language skills.

 

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Strategies for Building Speaking Confidence

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Building speaking confidence in language learners is a gradual journey, and it starts with tailoring activities to their specific proficiency levels. Let’s look at some activities and procedures that progressively build speaking confidence across various ACTFL proficiency levels.

I’m including examples to illustrate language output at different proficiency levels, from simple sentences for novice learners to more complex language for intermediate levels. As students progress, they can confidently communicate their thoughts and ideas in the target language.

Novice Low to Novice Mid

At these levels, learners may feel hesitant about speaking. Activities like picture description provide a comfortable starting point. By focusing on simple vocabulary and asking them to describe familiar visuals, students build foundational speaking confidence. Frequent practice in a supportive environment helps them develop essential speaking skills and overcome initial apprehension.

  • “I see a red apple.”
  • “Je vois une pomme rouge.”
  • “Veo una manzana roja.”

Novice High to Intermediate Low

As students progress, role-playing offers them opportunities to take on different personas, effectively bridging the gap between novice and intermediate levels. By engaging in real-life scenarios, they begin to express themselves more naturally, helping boost their speaking confidence.

  • “I’d like a coffee, please.”
  • “Je voudrais un café, s’il vous plaît.”
  • “Me gustaría un café, por favor.”

Intermediate Mid to Intermediate High

Debates and discussions are ideal for students aiming to reach intermediate-high proficiency. These activities require more nuanced language use and promote critical thinking. By encouraging structured debates, students not only express their opinions confidently but also engage in active listening and respond effectively—a crucial aspect of speaking fluency.

  • “In my opinion, environmental conservation is a global responsibility.”
  • “À mon avis, la conservation de l’environnement est une responsabilité mondiale.”
  • “En mi opinión, la conservación del medio ambiente es una responsabilidad global.”

Building Confidence Through Progression

Regardless of proficiency levels, here are some overarching strategies that progressively enhance speaking confidence:

  1. Positive Reinforcement: Recognize and celebrate small victories. Acknowledge their improvements, no matter how incremental, to boost confidence.
  2. Vocabulary Enrichment: Introduce relevant vocabulary for each activity. As students acquire new words, they gain confidence in expressing themselves accurately.
  3. Scaffolded Support: Provide sentence starters or question prompts, especially for novice and intermediate learners, to help them articulate their thoughts.
  4. Recording Practice: Allow students to record their speaking. Over time, they’ll notice their progress and feel more confident in their abilities.
  5. Consistency is Key: Consistent practice is essential. Frequent speaking activities gradually normalize speaking in the target language, reducing anxiety and bolstering confidence.

By implementing these activities and strategies, language teachers can guide their students on a journey toward increased speaking confidence. Whether they’re just starting or aiming for advanced proficiency, gradual progression through tailored activities and continuous practice ensures that students develop the skills and self-assuredness they need to become confident speakers in the target language.

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Input and Output in the Language Classroom

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Language acquisition is a multifaceted process, shaped by various factors and methodologies. The ideas of input and output often play a significant role in any discussion of how language is acquired.  Let’s look at the intricate interplay between input and output, drawing insights from the book “Common Ground” by Florencia Henshaw and Maris Hawkins.

Input and Output in the Language Classroom (French, Spanish)

How is Language Acquired?

At its core, language acquisition is an implicit process, unconsciously constructing a linguistic system by connecting form and meaning based on the input we receive. It’s the subconscious work that takes place while we’re immersed in comprehending messages, operating beyond our conscious control. Language acquisition thrives on grasping the portions of input that assist in decoding the intended message, as opposed to consciously dissecting language rules.

Communication, conversely, revolves around the deliberate interpretation and expression of meaning. Our focal point on communication hinges on two pivotal questions: What information or content is being conveyed? And what will the audience do with this information? These inquiries form the bedrock of meaningful interaction and exchange.

The Role of Input

Input serves as the cornerstone of language acquisition since understanding must precede the establishment of form-meaning connections.

The Role of Comprehensible Input

Krashen’s Input Hypothesis introduces the concept that learners progress in language when they comprehend input that is slightly beyond their current proficiency level, often referred to as “i+1.” While Krashen’s ideas have evolved and faced criticism, a consensus remains regarding the importance of comprehensible input. Crafting such input involves a combination of strategies:

  • Ensuring that the topic and text type align with students’ proficiency levels.
  • Employing visual cues, body language, and target language equivalents.
  • Utilizing examples that relate to common associations and cognates.
  • Gradually delivering content and simplifying language.
  • Embracing circumlocution to convey intended meaning.
  • Incorporating authentic resources to provide genuine context.
  • Implementing comprehension checks to maintain communication-driven interactions.

While explicit instruction isn’t deemed necessary for acquisition, directing learners’ attention to grammatical forms during meaningful communication can be beneficial in strengthening form-meaning connections.

The Role of Output

Output, defined as the production of the target language to convey meaning, plays an essential but distinct role in language development. Merrill Swain’s Output Hypothesis suggests that pushing learners to produce accurate and meaningful messages facilitates language development by prompting them to pay closer attention to linguistic form. Output assists learners in recognizing their gaps in knowledge and affords opportunities for testing hypotheses. However, Hawkins and Henshaw contend that output doesn’t construct the linguistic system; its primary function lies in helping learners identify their input needs.

While there is often a significant emphasis on input, the role of output remains paramount, particularly in communicative language teaching. Traditional teaching methods tend to prioritize output, associating communication primarily with speaking and writing. However, the equilibrium between input and output isn’t dictated by a fixed ratio. Instead, it is essential to provide ample communicative input and grant the linguistic system the time it requires to develop organically, particularly at the novice level.

You can also listen to episode 63 of the World Language Classroom Podcast where I go in-depth on the topic of input and output.

In Conclusion

The journey of language acquisition involves a delicate dance between input and output. Both are integral components, each contributing uniquely to the development of linguistic competence. By understanding their roles and finding a harmonious equilibrium, educators can guide learners towards achieving language proficiency and effective communication.

Reference:

Henshaw, Florencia Gilio, and Maris Hawkins. Common Ground Second Language Acquisition Theory Goes to the Classroom. Focus, an Imprint of Hackett Publishing Company, 2022.

Sales, Antonia De. “The Output Hypothesis and its Influence in Second language Learning/Teaching: An interview with Merrill Swain.” Interfaces Brasil/Canadá, vol. 20, 2020, pp. 1–12,

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Quiz, Quiz Trade in the Language Classroom

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Quiz, Quiz, Trade is one of those go-to activities that gets students speaking and moving around.  Once they know how it works you can pull it out anytime for speaking practice, idea generation, an opening activity or review of a topic.  The possibilities are endless.

Quiz, Quiz Trade in the Language Classroom, French and Spanish

This highly effective strategy has proven to be a valuable asset for learners of all proficiency levels, from novices to those at the intermediate high level. Let’s look at how to set it up, manage it effectively, and consider follow-up activities that can enhance language proficiency.

Setting up Quiz, Quiz, Trade

Prepare Question Cards: Create question cards with prompts related to your chosen topic. You can tailor these prompts to different proficiency levels. For example:

  • Novice Low: Basic vocabulary with words or pictures
  • Novice Mid: yes/no, either/or questions.
  • Novice Mid: Simple questions about daily routines or preferences.
  • Intermediate Low: Questions about hobbies or school with more detail using questions words to bring out more information.
  • Intermediate Mid: Question in different time frames and questions based on a class reading or video.
  • Intermediate High: Open-ended questions on global issues or cultural comparisons.

Distribute Cards: Hand out one question card to each student.

Managing the Activity

Pairing Up: Have students pair up and stand facing each other, holding their cards.

Questioning: Instruct students to take turns asking and answering the questions on their cards in the target language. Encourage question askers to:

  • Listen actively to their partner’s responses, noting any interesting details.
  • Ask follow-up questions to further the conversation. For example, if the question is about hobbies, they can ask, “Why do you enjoy that hobby?” or “How often do you do it?”

Trading Cards: After both students have asked and answered, they trade cards. This ensures that they interact with different prompts and partners.  Students then seek out a new partner.  You can have “available” students raise their hand so that they can locate each other.  I usually say that you can’t go back to the same person after already speaking so that friends extend their circle.  Students may get the same question back several times as cards rotate.  No problem. More practice with that question.

I also put myself in the mix so that I have some one-on-one time with students and can keep track of any areas that may need additional attention, such inaccurate vern forms or inconsistent use of singular and plural.  Formative information for me.

Repeat: Continue the process for a set amount of time.  I also introduce new cards throughout, usually replacing the cards that I get with a new prompt as I integrate into the activity.  This keeps the prompts fresh so that students don’t get repeat prompts.

Follow-Up Activities

Discussion: Have students share interesting answers they received during Quiz, Quiz ,Trade and facilitate a class discussion on the topic.

Writing Assignment: Assign a writing task based on the same topic. Students can expand on the ideas discussed during Quiz, Quiz ,Trade.

Debate: For intermediate mid/high students, turn the questions into debate topics, encouraging them to argue their viewpoints in the target language.

The key to success with Quiz, Quiz, Trade is providing clear instructions and monitoring the activity (be a part of it) to ensure students stay on track. It’s a versatile tool that can be adapted to suit your specific language teaching goals and proficiency levels.

By incorporating Quiz, Quiz, Trade into your language classroom, you’ll not only see improved language proficiency but also foster a fun and interactive learning environment.

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110: Conferences and PD for Language Teachers

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Have you attended a conference specifically for language teachers, either locally, regionally or nationally.  If you have, this episode will get you excited about the upcoming conference season.  If you’ve never attended, you’ll be inspired to attend for sure. Danja Mahoney and Vilma Nasuti Bibeau, both members of their state language conference planning committee, join me to explore everything that these events have to offer and all that’s in it for language teachers.  I live for PD, workshops and a good ol’ conference. I’m so excited.

Topics in this episode:

  • Benefits of attending a conference for world language teachers
  • What typically happens at a language teacher’s conference?
  • Who presents at conferences?
  • Events and activities that are typically available to conference attendees.
  • Networking opportunities, social gatherings and exhibitors.
  • How language teacher conferences foster collaboration among attendees.

Connect with Vilma, Danja and MaFLA:

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.

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.  

Follow wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Pecha Kucha in the Language Classroom, At All Levels

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Are you familiar with Pecha Kucha?  It’s a Powerpoint or Google Slides presentation style that originated in Japan and it is known for its concise, visually engaging format. It’s an excellent tool for building presentational speaking skills and boosting confidence.

Pecha Kucha in the Language Classroom, At All Levels. French, Spanish. Presentational Speaking.

How does Pecha Kucha work?

Pecha Kucha, which means “chit-chat” in Japanese, involves creating a presentation with precisely 20 slides, each lasting 20 seconds. This unique format challenges students to be concise, organized, and creative in their delivery. The ultimate goal is to present a dynamic presentation lasting six minutes and 20 seconds.  Typically the presenter sets a Powerpoint or Google Slide to advance every 20 seconds to keep the timing consistent. There are only images on the slides and no words.  Students should have ample time to practice on their own with a partner before sharing with a larger group.  You can have students do their Pecha Kucha for a small group of 4-5 or the entire class.

Benefits of Pecha Kucha

  • Speaking Confidence: Pecha Kucha challenges students to speak clearly and confidently within time constraints, boosting their self-assurance.
  • Vocabulary Expansion: It encourages the use of diverse vocabulary related to the chosen topic, expanding their language proficiency.
  • Improved Organization: Students learn to structure their thoughts logically, enhancing their communication skills.
  • Visual Engagement: Incorporating images not only reinforces language concepts but also adds a dynamic element to the presentation.

Adapting Pecha Kucha to Proficiency Levels

For novice and intermediate proficiency levels, you might want to begin with fewer slides and shorter durations. Let’s Look at Pecha Kucha for different proficiency levels.

Novice Mid to High: At this stage, students are building their foundational language skills. Pecha Kucha can start with as few as five slides, with each slide lasting 10-15 seconds. Here are some topic ideas and examples:

  • My Family: Include pictures of family members and use basic vocabulary to introduce them. For instance, “This is my sister, Marisol. She is 20 years old.”

Pecha Kucha in the Language Classroom, At All Levels. French, Spanish. Presentational Speaking.

  • My Hobbies: Show images related to interests, such as sports, music, or art. Encourage students to use phrases like “I like” or “I enjoy” to express their preferences.

Pecha Kucha in the Language Classroom, At All Levels. French, Spanish. Presentational Speaking.

Intermediate Low to Mid: At this stage, students have a firmer grasp of the language, allowing for more complexity. You can increase the number of slides to 10-15, with each slide lasting 15-20 seconds. Here are examples:

  • Travel Destinations: Share pictures of famous places and discuss why they want to visit them. Encourage the use of descriptive language and future tense, e.g., “I will visit Paris because it’s beautiful.”

Pecha Kucha in the Language Classroom, At All Levels. French, Spanish. Presentational Speaking.

  • A Day in My Life: Describe their typical day, incorporating past, present, and future tenses. Include images of various activities, such as waking up, going to school, and spending time with friends.

Pecha Kucha in the Language Classroom, At All Levels. French, Spanish. Presentational Speaking.

Language Use in Pecha Kucha

Emphasize the use of relevant vocabulary, verb tenses, and connectors while presenting. Encourage students to incorporate phrases like “First, then, next, finally” to structure their presentations. Provide feedback on pronunciation, fluency, and correct word usage to help them improve.

What do the listeners do?

  • Provide listening students with a template or worksheet where they can jot down key points, interesting phrases, or questions during the presentations. This will help them stay focused and retain information.
  • If listening students have questions about what they heard during the presentations, provide an opportunity for them to seek clarifications from the presenters. This promotes interactive learning and communication within the classroom.
  • After each presentation, ask listening students to share their understanding of what their classmate discussed. This can be done individually or in small groups.
  • Listening students can compare their notes with their peers to see if they captured the same key points. This can lead to interesting conversations and collaborative learning.
  • Initiate a class discussion where listening students can share their thoughts on the presentations they observed. Encourage them to express what they found interesting, challenging, or informative.

Final Thoughts on Pecha Kucha

Incorporating Pecha Kucha into your world language classroom offers an exciting way to foster presentational speaking proficiency, creativity, and confidence. Whether students are just starting out or have been studying for a few years, this method can be tailored to their level, ensuring continuous growth and engagement in their language learning journey!

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