#LangChat is dedicated to the discussion of topics associated with issues and trends in world language instruction and learning. Educators, administrators, learners, and aficionados of world languages are encouraged to participate and share their experiences and input on various topics such as new ways to teach vocabulary, using music in the language classroom, and making standards-based grading valid. This chat is also unique in that it brings together language educators worldwide and from different contexts (elementary, secondary, higher education, etc.) and languages.
OK! Let's get ready for Q1! Remember to respond with #langchat and A1. What are you continuing to rock with, what do you do well, what is *not* changing in your classroom this semester?
A1: My "steady Eddie" this school year is my first grade unit of inquiry; it's not terribly interesting but it's solid, I'm comfortable, the kids learn. #langchat
A1 Not changing: providing plenty input to all learners, scaffolding output at all levels. Also keeping Fri Read&Report + What's Up Thursday. #Langchat
A1 I start every class with a warm-up and students can answer the question or prompt for their speaking points. I get to interact with all students and they speak in the TL #langchat
#langchat A1 I'm not changing much for semester 2. Still using lots of EdPuzzles for my blended Spanish IV, and using @Flipgrid as much as I can with both my blended and traditional classes. Trying to remember to pair my students up with their map partners too!
Try some of my fun #phonics activities with your early learners. Try some great board games that reinforce beginning sounds, as well as engaging worksheets and other classroom activities. https://t.co/Z5aAelchEk#edchat#engchat#langchat
A1: LOVING my year and what I'm doing. Not changing Je peux, TALKs, remembering that novices CAN say big things with little words, will keep relying on the feedback of PLN #langchat. Proficiency and thematic based. Never going back
A1 #langchat Still proud of our global challenges units at all levels and communicative activities that connect with all levels. Supporting learners through the goals.
I have not officially started my internship, but one thing that I was super nervous was having a class without desk. But now I know that you do not have to have a typical classroom to be successful! #langchat
A1. I feel like I have rocked the no big stakes tests mentality throughout the semester. More projects instead. Of course, I still had a traditional semester final. Gotta consider revamping that. #langchat
A1 still 100% Spanish, deskfree textbookless fun communicative fvr library interactive movement and hooks for conversation at and pushing beyond ACTFL level #langchat
A1 #langchat Still proud of our global challenges units at all levels and communicative activities that connect with all levels. Supporting learners through the goals.
A2: My highlight reel is consistent yet quietly innovative. I always feel like we're trying something new. y bigger picture is what I see my kids being able to do. #langchat
A2 #langchat I know my best practices fit into how I *start* class, it's the key to everything and sets the tone. Class jobs are rocking, differentiated PUEDOs are posted, groups are together and passing out folders, bam! None of it works alone.
A2 #langchat Standards-based approach to learning/acquisition allows sts to feel confident to reconsider & retry learning goals as they feel capable. Show what you CanDo!
A2: If you set the expectations and restate them consistently as well as maintain the quality of instruction, the learning will fall into place. No buy-in from students equals no motivation. #langchat
A2: Formative Assessment- by using FA as a process I can evaluate S progress in real time and make adjustments as needed- helps build confidence and Lower affective filter! #langchat
A2: GAH this question is HARD @PRHSspanish!!! #langchat Like big picture : grand ideas of what my kiddos could do. Best practices: tiny tiny tiny baby steps forward (& massive face-plants backwards) to that goal.
A2 #langchat Yes! Lots of formatives, and CALLING THEM THAT! My students get good at predicting formative vs summative and asking better ?s about why I'm grading what I'm grading.
A2 The routines I mentioned contribute to building classroom culture and giving students low-stress opportunities to have authentic language experiences. #langchat
A2 Focusing on Interpersonal way more this year, being intentional about it, having routines that support it. It shows - they talk, on the spot, based on text or personal probs:) #langchat
A2 telling studentsup front what the assessments will be guides my instruction and their learning. They know what to expect and how to be successful #langchat
A2 I want my students communicating with a purpose. My speaking prompt and their homework are opportunities for that. HW choices are interpretive #authres that are presentational in regards to output. #langchat
A2: Focusing on negotiating meaning leads to students taking risks - leads to them to feel confident in their abilities and to fall in love the language. #langchat
I try to continue to read about best practices as much as I can to refine my teaching. I try not to get too caught up in what students have always liked and focus on what also is best for them. #langchat
#langchat A2 One thing I do well is offer a lot of options within one task, and that fits into the bigger scheme of proficiency in my room. I'm not counting how many adverbs you use and how many sentences, I want HOW WELL not HOW MUCH.
A2: "me llamo es" gets the message across, I'm just here to make sure Ss still feel motivated to finish the summatives to the best of their ability... and remain hopeful that Ss just say "me llamo" at the end of the year. #langchat
#langchat A2 And being a better listener. I've gotten better at that since teaching w/ proficiency; it forces you to stop interrupting kids and focus on what they CAN do, not what they don't know.
This morning I got an email from a Spanish teacher from another school who heard my students singing @senorwooly at an away basketball game. The students talked up class & El Internado so much, the teacher asked if she could come visit 😊🙌🏻 #langchat
Hello twitterland!!! I just started a fb group for world language teachers, so we can ask each other for advice and share our best tips :) Look for Language Latte: https://t.co/543MeoNGwj#langchat#flteach#globaled
I just try not to rest on my laurels- just because something has worked fine doesn't mean that it can't be improved. But I also try to take small steps to get there and not work myself too hard! It is a hard balance! #langchat
Summative and Formative days are starting to look the same. Test days should feel like a class day - just quieter. Same expectations, same type of activities... this one is just a bit harder than normal. #langchat
A2. My big picture is communication. More talking, even if it isn't for a grade. Unscripted talking as practice. But I would like to hear other's thoughts on how to create good unscripted oral assessments. #langchat
I am curious to hear if you all have suggestions on what gets students excited for your class and to start class on the right foot? Is there a particular activity you like to do with your students? #langchat
A2 #langchat I know my best practices fit into how I *start* class, it's the key to everything and sets the tone. Class jobs are rocking, differentiated PUEDOs are posted, groups are together and passing out folders, bam! None of it works alone.
#langchat A2 I will say that systems + experience have served me well now, and I no longer feel panic when we run long on time. I keep prompts on the class Snapchat all the time, so hey, we have five min left, respond to at least three questions on Snapchat for a stamp. Done.
A3: I literally drop written curricula for anything that is more compelling, timely, topical, thematic, and/or developmentally appropriate. What do the kids want? What do they need? How can I set up our Spanish lessons to give them that? #langchat
A3- W presentational writing I get stuck that it must be spontaneous. In level 5 I am going to have them work on a short paper like they would for English class #langchat
A5 I'm making an effort to examine practices and perspectives represented in texts from other cultures, not just how they're different, but also how they're similar #kindclassroomschat#langchat
We do "what's up Thursday" where kids can bring up anything they want to discuss. The first few months, I allow them to semi-prepare what they will bring up to the group, but the convo takes from there. Participation expected, scored with TALK weekly. #langchat
A3: Totally using @SraSpanglish Mascota Especial for my 2s! This group was kinda over Persona Especial. Trying not to lose momentum w/whole class novel. Definitely using Lit Circles again w/2s #langchat
NNELL invites its members to attend a FREE webinar on Tues, Jan 23, 7-8 p.m. EST "Can Do Statements for Early Language Learners" with @nathanlutz.
Free registration for members: https://t.co/NKQuMEgcfv
Not a member? No worries, join today: https://t.co/OzlniyUHAV
NNELL invites its members to attend a FREE webinar on Tues, Jan 23, 7-8 p.m. EST "Can Do Statements for Early Language Learners" with @nathanlutz.
Free registration for members: https://t.co/NKQuMEgcfv
Not a member? No worries, join today: https://t.co/OzlniyUHAV
A3: I think the best way to keep it fresh is for us to try new activities and methods and let our students see us step out of our comfort zones. If students should learn, shouldn't teachers model learning, too? #langchat
A3 be flexible to topics that come up locally or globally and run with them when students show interest. Didn't plan last week's discussion but it was a great one! #langchat
#langchat A3 I usually go back and forth with using a story, then not, then another, then not, plus lots of different online activities to utilize in different ways. There are so many, I just divy them out to try a couple per unit in some way, and and by the end of the year=lots
#langchat A3 Remembering to go back and do activities that have been successful and engaging in the past and switching it up! Oftentimes I focus on one type of activity for a while and it does get stale - what about that activity from Q1 that was a hit! How can I adapt for this?
A3 #langchat I am definitely more motivated after a restful C'mas break. So I know my energy and planning is fresher. I have to really map out ideas as they come to me or else I forgot, or keep using the same things = rut. I shelve it until a specific time in the future.
#langchat A3: if you aren't innovative, what will motivate your Ss to be innovative and excited about L2? Be willing to drop tech sometimes and go back to basics- allow time for creativity and give students options! try new things!
This year I split up all 3 parts of the IPA and that helped w grading, but then sometimes it is hard to fit it all in... so I am still not sure! #langchat
A3: I try to challenge them often with authentic articles. whether they are reading about MLK, stress, a legend, etc, Ss are engaged and taking risks!! #langchat
A3: I loveee this! I also think that we getting feedback from students is crucial to getting all students moving in the classroom. AND staying on trend to modify the activities! #langchat
A3: I think the best way to keep it fresh is for us to try new activities and methods and let our students see us step out of our comfort zones. If students should learn, shouldn't teachers model learning, too? #langchat
A3 Incorporating bits of current events at all levels through #authres. Not afraid to use my L1 allowance to clarify do a quick discuss/debate. Got to have informed young citizens. #langchat
A3 #langchat One thing I love to do when I see a new tool is decide when in the future (not current unit) I can use it, and set myself a phone Siri reminder for like a week before starting the new Unit so that I'm not overwhelmed or forget completely.
I'm going to take advantage of @flipgrid and change hw to oral description. Grade 12 wrking on intermed high performance. Must be able to storytell! Fingers crossed! #langchat
A3: we do "teacher for a day" and let students lead content and activities (while teacher helps with input and feedback). Helps bring in fresh ideas and lets thenkids lead even more. #langchat
A3: Totally using @SraSpanglish Mascota Especial for my 2s! This group was kinda over Persona Especial. Trying not to lose momentum w/whole class novel. Definitely using Lit Circles again w/2s #langchat
A3: I try to find new reading strategies for kiddos so that they're not just sitting there staring at words they don't understand. @MartinaBex has a LOT of helpful strategies. Red/Yellow/Greenlight has been the most effective :) #langchat
Flipgrid is great- but I found Recap to be more user friendly and has the option to lead students to inquire and promote their own discussions!!! @RecapThat#langchat
The Type A person in me is screaming that my entire plan could go out the window, but there's also something great about seeing student growth and allowing that to change your plans. #langchat
Q4: For things to fit together, what are your pre-reqs? Certain seating, first few days do __ and __, etc.? What sets the tone and makes it all work? #langchat
#langchat A4 I introduce proficiency the first day of school, as well as formative/summative, so that they know why we're doing what we're doing and when we're doing it.
#langchat A4 It makes EVERYTHING easier when the first day isn't spent droning on about what they can't do all semester, and how they'll be graded, etc. Let's get to the actually challenging stuff of learning.
A2 #langchat Not letting one bad lesson get to me, because there will be just as many of those as there are good ones. As long as I am trying and the kids are learning, it is all a highlight reel.
A4 if you really want kids to use language, which means taking big risks, you have to have a relationship with them. You need their trust that they can take risks. #langchat
A4: Above all it's about relationships - it all comes together when students know you care more about them and their interests than how they perform #langchat
A4: You need to pre-load the students with the tools they need to perform. Then arrange them as needed, model what you want, and give feedback up until the end product. #langchat
A2 #langchat Never going to stop trying new things to keep language excitement alive in my classroom and to find ways to make it live outside my classroom walls.
A3. Also a little song and dance goes a long way. Last week I literally pulled out my daughter's keyboard and taught my Spanish 3 about commands. #langchat
I set up a code with kids when I'm doing call outs - hold your hands together on your desk when you don't want to be called on. Unless it's a summative, you're safe. #langchat
#langchat A4 For me to do all the things I do, this will sound like a PSA, but it really is 1) outfit planning on Sundays, 2) meal planning on Sundays, 3) an early bedtime each night, and 4) leaving in the afternoon with EVERYTHING set up for me to walk in in the AM, set.
A4: this may be very simple, but it’s enthusiasm, passion and belief in Ss. I remind them how amazing the brain is! My level 2s read and talk about topics with low and sophisticated vocab. I’m pumped and so r they! #langchat
A4 if you really want kids to use language, which means taking big risks, you have to have a relationship with them. You need their trust that they can take risks. #langchat
A4 I am the only Fr teacher at school. We get to know each other very well; kids form a bond, they know how this works (#performance), that we can be vulnerable. We have a purpose & we're there for each other. #langchat
At the end of my internship, that is one thing overall that I hope to feel content... creating a relationship with my students in which they are not afraid to ask questions or afraid to pronounce a Spanish word incorrectly. #langchat
A4 if you really want kids to use language, which means taking big risks, you have to have a relationship with them. You need their trust that they can take risks. #langchat
A3 Following #langchat of course as my PLN always gives me a different perspective and fresh ideas that inspire me and allow my students to learn and grow in ways I couldn't have designed myself.
A5: This is the advice I give my French colleague. Find what you're comfortable doing & who you're comfortable being. Find your place. Then try flying. #langchat
A4: And students probably also enjoy/respect a teacher that levels with them on what their learning experience is and what it will continue to look like. #langchat
Q5: Train and prepare - hit up a conference on tech in the classroom (or come see me at #SCOLT). Hybrid classrooms are your friend. You leave your comfort zone to use the tech, kids leave theirs to use pen and paper. Meet them in the middle #langchat
A5 don't be afraid to try a "best practice" but more importantly don't be afraid to change it to make it work for you and your students. Own it in your own way. #langchat
This is one of my biggest weaknesses that Ss will put in evals. The elasticity with where we go and how we get there makes some uncomfortable. They crave defined path/destination. Still seeking the balance #langchat
Our classes are so clearly opps to continue to grow. Not just earning 100s... but moving up levels. I post my prof wall so Ss can see they can always grow!
Q5: Model your formatives after you summatives - Make an A and B version of each test, modify the one that you're not going to give them. It helps them feel more confident, and when they feel confident they WANT to learn! :) #langchat
A5: This is tough because each of us is different- however- personalized PD and seeking out mentors- going to conferences, and networking has revolutionized my classroom- even 11 years after my first day! Surround yourself with awesome! #langchat
A5: Remember to have fun - laugh with the Ss and laugh at yourself. Be silly. Don't take one lesson too seriously. Ss will remember the stories you tell, the field trips and the silly dances and songs. Acquisition and communication will follow #langchat
#langchat A4 Belief in MYSELF and in my students. Trust in the process and in the struggle, it is all part of the journey. I can do it, and so can they!
A5 Set up grade book categories to skills or modes. Adjust your assessments to fit in ONE category (absolutely NO cheating:) #Performance#ThatsHowIstarted#langchat
Q5: Don't copy every aspect of every good idea that you hear about. Make it your own - make it for YOUR kiddos. Just because me and mine like Harry Potter themed units, doesn't mean yours will too. #langchat
A5: kids first! Build rapport, listen to Ss & their feedback. They r the ones in the classroom after all. Take risks with them. Remind them that “mistakes are proof u are trying” #langchat
A5 #langchat EXACTLY, @meganabuck. Track athletes don't show up to the meets not knowing what events they're running. There are preps for the SAT, driver's test, MCAT, GRE, BAR Exam, and more. So WHY do we keep assessment formats/questions/etc. from kids?!?
Whew! What a whirlwind of ideas and resource sharing! Tonight's #langchat may have been a bit abstract, but it really helps to reflect on what we do WELL, not always what we want to change. What is it that we keep rocking with that becomes our jam and integral to our classroom?
A5 I think the most important thing when trying something new is that failure is normal. It takes time to implement and modifications are constantly being made. Take a risk! #langchat
A8: surrounding ourselves w/like-minded, empathic people who share the same edu-philosophy will keep us on the right track and push us fwd #KindClassroomsChat
That is good point that you made. It all comes back around in getting to know your students and building relationships. As they say, communication is the key to a successful relationship. #langchat
#langchat TA: I got a few ideas tonight, but I'm going to temper them with continuing to do what I've got going already. I don't want to turn on another burner and get too many things at once. Steady Eddie, and continue to let some other things ruminate and simmer!
A5 I think the most important thing when trying something new is that failure is normal. It takes time to implement and modifications are constantly being made. Take a risk! #langchat
TA: Stay the course and keep an eye on the finish line --summer! Be ready to make mistakes right along with the students. Show our human side, and teach with all our hearts. #langchat
TA I'm going on Canvas tonight and finding something new that I can transparently communicate to learners about what they can expect so those anxious Ss can feel more comfortable #langchat
#langchat FA: Love this community, learning more about best practices, reading, networking, and reflecting on my own work. I use "Can dos" everyday but I love the idea of calling them #puedos. so fun! make it authentic, make it real!
TA: Pace myself and reflect more. I'm hoping to get a handle on grading effectively and quickly. Hoping to reflect on things that ARE working and trying not to reinvent the wheel. #OverActiveImagination#langchat
TA: I have grown exponentially since reaching out, reading, listening, asking questions, & trying things in the past year. I feel like this is the right path for my practice & my students. #langchat
A5 Digest the Keys books and learn about proficiency based assessment and thematic units and how to make the most of the #langchat PLN. Knowing better means you do better. And best practices gets better stuff out of students because they know you believe what and how you teach.
