Tag Archives: world language classroom

56: Backwards Design and Planning


In this episode we look at planning in the language classroom.  Whether it is for an entire year, a particular unit or even an individual lesson, backwards design and planning is quite effective.  It also helps to ensure that we are focusing on all of the modes and that our ultimate goals are for students to do something with the target language vocabulary, structures and themes that they are learning.  It’s all about planning ahead to plan backwards.

Backwards design planning and execution happens in three phases or stages.

  1. Identify Desired Results
  2. Determine Acceptable Evidence
  3. Plan the Learning Experience and Instruction

References in this episode:

Work with Joshua either in person or remotely.

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55: Setting the Tone and Getting to Know Students


After an exciting and productive summer I am back with new episodes of the World Language Classroom podcast.  In this episode We will talk about setting the tone for the school year along with some ideas for getting to know your students and beginning to build a sense of community in the classroom. I also speak about what I have been up to this summer and what you can expect for this school year on the podcast.  I’m so happy to be back with you.

Topics in this episode:

My goals in the language classroom:

  • To use the target language to communicate authentically and with purpose. 
  • To be able to infer (Comprehensible Inout) and use circumlocution. 
  • To use the target language more than learning about it.
  • To know how to learn about cultural aspects and then to use that information to engage respectfully and confidently. 
  • To create an environment that is comfortable and supportive, not fearful. Low affective filter. Take risks and make mistakes!
  • To participate & be part of a community

Ideas for engaging students from day 1 from Leslie Grahn, Elena Spathis, Justin (Spanish Plans), Tim Eagan, Ms Morgan and Adam Giedd,

Work with Joshua either in person or remotely.

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54: Revisit Activities for Your Teacher Toolbox


This is the last episode in Summer Headspace series. I revisit episodes 25 and 36. These are the 2 Teacher Toolbox episodes where I give you low (and mostly no) prep activities for your language classroom.

Listen to the episodes:

Work with Joshua either in person or remotely.

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52: Revisit Using Music & Doing Picture and Movie Talks


In this episode of the Summer Headspace series I revisit episode 30 with Alison Weinhold,who talks about using music in the language classroom and episode  31 with Sarah Moghtader who speaks about doing movie and picture talks.

Listen to the episodes:

Work with Joshua either in person or remotely.

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