#EarlyLang Archive

This biweekly chat is for early language educators - FLES and elementary immersion teachers. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 8:00-9:00 pm EST

Wednesday October 10, 2018
8:00 PM EDT

  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Welcome to #EarlyLang! Tonight’s topic is the role of play and imagination. Thanks for joining me and @nathanlutz !
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    First, let’s get started w/ introductions. Tell us who you are, what you teach. What’s your favorite part of fall? #EarlyLang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Hi #earlylang friends! Welcome to tonight's chat! ;-)
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Hi #earlylang!!! I'm Rose and I teach K-5 Spanish in upstate NY. MY favorite part of fall is apples :)
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    I'm Jenny, from the Hudson Valley, NY - Spanish grades 3-5. I loooooove the change of seasons and the beautiful colors we get in our trees here! #EarlyLang
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hi #EarlyLang friends! My name is Glenda & I teach Spanish PS - 2nd grade in Virginia. I love the changing color of the leaves during Fall.
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hey #earlylang! Lisa here, French and Spanish, 7/8. My favorite parts of fall are the cooler weather and the changing leaves!
  • MaCristinaRV Oct 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    ¡Hola #earlylang! I'm Cristina from Miami 🌴 where I teach Spanish PK-5. Fall only lives in my imagination...
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hi, I'm Nathan in NJ. I teach French, Pre-K through grade 5. My favorite part of fall is COOLER WEATHER! #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hi #earlylang, I’m Rebecca Aubrey, K-8 Spanish, actual grades varies year to year :)
  • TarniaCovooper Oct 10 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hi everyone! I'm Tonya. I teach Spanish prek-5 in Richmond,VA. My favorite part of fall is the cooler weather. Which hasn't really shown up here yet. #EarlyLang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hello #earlylang! I'm Luci and I teach K-3 Spanish in Ca. I'm looking forward to learning from you all tonight :)
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Sorry #earlylang, I used to like the colors and changing breezes of fall. I am realizing more and more I hate winter, and fall signals that approaching doom!
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hola #earlylang! I'm Jessica, Spanish teacher grades PK-4 in Milwaukee. I love the colors of fall
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    We will be using a Q1/A1 format. So when answering Question 1, please include A1 in your answer. And don’t forget to use our hashtag! #EarlyLang
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Hola #earlylang- Samara Spielberg. I teach Spanish 3-9 in an all boys school in NYC!
  • EarlyLang Oct 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Tonight's #earlylang chat is sponsored by @EMCSCHOOL
  • michelleolah Oct 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    #EarlyLang Hi, I'm Michelle. I'm from Florida (no where near Hurricane Michael) and I work with Elementary World Language teachers.
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Q1: How does imaginative play encourage and foster language acquisition and practice? #EarlyLang
  • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Hey Marissa from NY in and out tonite sorry @JL_Delf but amazing moderator! K and 1st Spanish nyc #earlylang
  • mistybeagle21 Oct 10 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    #earlylang Stephanie K12 Spanish. Love sweater weather in the fall.
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1: #earlylang I feel that it gives students a context, which then helps create meaning for language acquisition. It gives it a purpose.
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1 One of the more informative chapters in this book https://t.co/kTnZ9pPaBN talks about the different kinds of play. Helped me understand why there was all that stuff in classrooms. #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1: coupled with #earlylang learners lack of fears, imaginative play really puts them in scenarios that encourage TL use and make it "real" to them.
  • SraTewes Oct 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    Hey #earlylang !! Emily here from WI. I teach K-3 Spanish. Usually love fall but we’ve had nothing but rain for weeks
  • TarniaCovooper Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: Play is natural for kids, so a playful classroom would naturally feel safer to a child. And, of course, when they feel safe they're willing to make mistakes and learn. #EarlyLang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: I think imaginative play fosters language acquisition by engrossing kiddos in real communication about topics that are developmentally appropriate. When they get lost in play they don't even realize they are using a different language. #earlylang
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: Play and imagination lower the affective filter, encouraging confidence with language acquisition! #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Thanks for the book rec, @rrrrrrrrrrrrosa ! #EarlyLang
  • MaCristinaRV Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Learners can see themselves as language users through imaginative play. #earlylang
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1- imaginative play breaks down barriers- helps Ss be more willing to take risks in TL. Also offers a glimpse into the minds of our Ss as individuals. Lets us identify their strengths, passions, hopes & dreams! #earlylang
  • REALLANGUAGE Oct 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    Elizabeth Roberts here. K-8 French teacher #earlylang
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1 Through play, students begin to explore, discover, create, experiment, problem solve, and learn social skills #earlylang
  • SraTewes Oct 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    A1: I see play as giving a relatable context to the languagefor our kiddos #earlylang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Another book to add to my list. Thank you for the tip. #EarlyLang
    In reply to @rrrrrrrrrrrrosa
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    A1 - Imaginative play gives students a fun & engaging platform to take risk and enjoy learning. #EarlyLang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    yes!! that safe and nurturing environment is so key for #EarlyLang
    • TarniaCovooper Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
      A1: Play is natural for kids, so a playful classroom would naturally feel safer to a child. And, of course, when they feel safe they're willing to make mistakes and learn. #EarlyLang
  • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    A1 imaginative play is a way for students to do what they do naturally in their L1, but in the L2 classroom! It’s uninhibited and special to watch #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    That affective filter, man. So vitally important to keep it low... even as those #earlylang learners grow!
    • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
      A1: Play and imagination lower the affective filter, encouraging confidence with language acquisition! #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Such great responses!! Q2 coming up shortly! #EarlyLang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Last chance for Q1: How does imaginative play encourage and foster language acquisition and practice? #EarlyLang # #EarlyLang
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Olé! It’s like sneaking veggies into their tomato sauce. (I’m not a parent- is this what they do?) They don’t even know it’s there but they’re absorbing all the vitamins and nutrients they need to be strong and healthy learners! #earlylang
    In reply to @TarniaCovooper
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Part of the reason I never want to leave the #EarlyLang classroom.
    • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:14 PM EDT
      A1 imaginative play is a way for students to do what they do naturally in their L1, but in the L2 classroom! It’s uninhibited and special to watch #earlylang
  • REALLANGUAGE Oct 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    A1: Play is so natural for young children, and they are engaged in learning when they are doing it. The more playful the class can be, the better. #earlylang Also, I really love fall!
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    A1 - I love how the younger the students are the easier it is to use the imagination to learn. #EarlyLang
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    A1 #EarlyLang: so much of the time we talk about pedagogical purposes of things, which is important. But what about “just because it makes it more fun”? It engages students, they enjoy class, hence they learn.
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    How transformative to see yourself as a language user right away! Love this. Then as they get older, they don’t have the negative thought reel in their heads of “I can’t, I don’t...” #earlylang
    In reply to @MaCristinaRV
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Q2: What are some ways you incorporate play and imagination in your classes? #EarlyLang
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A1 Honestly, If I’m having fun, so do my kids. If you approach a lesson enthused and playful, Ss will respond in kind. #earlylang
  • TarniaCovooper Oct 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    So true!! You know it's a good game when they don't want to stop. Sneakin in those language veggies. 🙌🏻 #earlylang
    In reply to @sspielb
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2 #EarlyLang My students love to design and perform their own puppet shows. I also model some of the play by doing some movies myself, which they watch, and then they do something similar, like ordering food in a restaurant.
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2 I interpret play & imagination to include being silly & making jokes, which demonstrates language proficiency. So when I ask my kiddos "¿Qué hay en mi mochila?" and one nugget asks "¿Hay sillas?" we all have a good chuckle. #earlylang
  • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    A2 the use of finger puppet for students to have conversations is the easiest way to get them started. Of course they can only sustain 30 seconds of memorized chunks and phrases and NL/NM speakers but it is fun to see them play as if no one is watching #EarlyLang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    So true! #EarlyLang
    In reply to @MllesrtaUrso
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    #languageveggies YA HEARD IT HERE FIRST!! #earlylang 🌶 🍅 🌽
    In reply to @TarniaCovooper
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    A2: We have a "language lab" that has nothing to do with headphones or tapes. We set it up for experiential activities like shopping and such. Having all those props loosens Ss up when they act and talk. #earlylang
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2 We also love our daily themes - miáucoles and jugar jueves are super popular because we get to imagine a gato extraterrestre or beg Maestra to keep playing the game until someone "wins." #earlylang
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2 - In my #earlylang classes puppets talk with us, the presentation of the board sometimes changes magically and tricks us all, we make believe that we are riding cars or flying in an airplane...
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2: I do something called “Frases Estupendas.” It’s like Mad Libs, but for L2 students. I write a subject and verb on the board, the kids have to finish the sentence by answering questions like “con quién” or “dónde”. (Sample photo coming up) #earlylang
  • REALLANGUAGE Oct 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2 I have a couple of story-telling units I do, Petit chaperone rouge and Boucle d'Or. Once the students are comfortable with the story, we spend time acting it out-- they love it! #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2 Becoming the characters in our stories or novels. I have seen whole students disappear as they embody the rainforest animal of their choice. #EarlyLang
  • SraTewes Oct 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2: I love playing board games, acting out stories, and incorporating cultural games from @MundodePepita ‘s TpT #earlylang
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    At the prompting of you and basically EVERY other #earlylang colleague, a stuffed llama named Bailey and Skippyjon Jones have been essential and beloved friends in our fifth grade lessons. We're begging to talk to Skipper and Rico of Penguins of Madagascar next.
    In reply to @srtacoulehan
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A2 #EarlyLang: this looks very different for middle school grades. I like to present my students with scenarios and/or specific end goals, and let them loose with how they demonstrate their learning. Allowing that freedom to do ANYTHING really inspires a lot of creative play.
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    I've done this with a variety of characters and associated actions from a story, and then students mix and match and add on. (the volcano explodes, but the shark explodes too in the ocean!) #EarlyLang
    In reply to @MllesrtaUrso
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Note the second sentence. In English, it translates to, “We choose potato ice cream on the moon because we can.” All created by the kids, not me. #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Hi #earlylang friends - we're still on Q2: What are some ways you incorporate play and imagination in your classes?
  • TarniaCovooper Oct 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A2: We act out stories. I'll introduce a common fairy tale and over a series of weeks we'll add more to the story. We play Veo Algo, move with music by amazing Spanish lang producers, online games, Quizlet Live, board races. I like all games!! #earlylang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A2: We play games like memory, hangman, find the hidden object, bingo, rock paper scissors, etc. We use our imagination as we interact with a menagerie of stuffed animals, puppets, props, costumes and sound machines #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    A2: We have nearly every species of Beanie Baby. They figure into classroom play nearly daily. #earlylang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Cool idea! Thank you for sharing! #EarlyLang
    In reply to @MllesrtaUrso
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Hope it’s it to late to join the convo. I’m Ericka from New Jersey. #EarlyLang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    A2: My Junior Pre-K class (age 3 kids) - we pretend the entire time. Babar is my wing man and he does all kinds of fun stuff. #earlylang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Fun! Love acting to get in reps and engage students. #EarlyLang
    In reply to @REALLANGUAGE
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2 #earlylang the best part about the little ones is that you can make everything a game! We do a ton with individual whiteboards, Quizlet live, Kahoot, Quizziz, Legos, Play-doh, Music, etc. We love using PUEDOS & quiz-quiz-trade. Put me in a dollar store & I can’t stop!
  • MaCristinaRV Oct 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    My fifth graders imagine they're on a flight to Spain. The students are customs agents, pilots, flight attendants and passport carrying passengers. They watch an inflight movie, eat snacks and they experience landing at Barajas airport. ✈️#earlylang
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A2: YouTube is a goldmine for crazy videos. I’ll do a movie talk with cat videos, and the kids love to make up the stories. #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    Q3 coming up #EarlyLang !
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A2 - My students did their cellphones & “call” each other. They asked and answered simple questions. They also texted each other. 😂 #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Q3: What are some strategies you employ to keep students engaged in the TL while playing? #EarlyLang
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    This would be a great class prize if you do party points or any type of incentive! #earlylang
    In reply to @MaCristinaRV
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Do kiddos call out these suggestions in the TL or do you translate for them? #EarlyLang
    In reply to @MllesrtaUrso
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    A2: I also use a puppet to model conversations. World, meet Luisa. Luisa, meet the world. #earlylang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    I’ve found my Ss love doing this particularly using different moods and emotions #EarlyLang
    • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
      Fun! Love acting to get in reps and engage students. #EarlyLang
      In reply to @REALLANGUAGE
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    A3 #EarlyLang: I could definately use some help with this. My strategies are to have stations that can be independent, so I am free to circulate; providing them with scripts as reminders; and lots and lots of positive reinforcement for TL use.
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    A3 I've come to accept that if I can't make the task, activity, or experience comprehensible through visuals, gestures, modeling, non-examples, or any other charades, then I have to seriously reconsider whether it's worth our time. #earlylang
  • VIPKidTeacherIN Oct 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Just finished teaching classes with #VIPKid! If you want to make money teaching from home, click here to get started: https://t.co/Uj9sl4D6En #1to1techchat #FLEDchat #EarlyLang #scchat #122edchat #ATchat #miched #workfromhome
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Stolen! #Earlylang
    In reply to @glendadehoyos
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Hi #earlylang friends - great conversations, keep them coming! Can you believe we're already at the halfway mark?!
  • SraTewes Oct 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3: To stay engaged, I include actions/movement and use high energy, surprises, vary my voice #earlylang
  • lucijgalvan Oct 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    Do you have any specific resources used in introducing and/or supporting the Veo Algo game? #EarlyLang
    In reply to @TarniaCovooper
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    TRUTH. #EarlyLang
    In reply to @rrrrrrrrrrrrosa
  • WescottSpanish Oct 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    I finally got little guy to bed...sure you guys don’t want to do this an hour later?!? I’ll have to #slowchat my way through later. #earlylang
    In reply to @nathanlutz, @SrtaWalpole, @ProfeUriz, @windycitysenora, @vgilbertTEACH
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A2 #earlylang we even do a Día de Los Muertos dance class! Yes- those are calavera leggings. Yes- those are my boys arising from their tumbas.
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    And this is the breaking point for so many. If we can accept this, we will move forward with so many other cool things for our students. #EarlyLang
    • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
      A3 I've come to accept that if I can't make the task, activity, or experience comprehensible through visuals, gestures, modeling, non-examples, or any other charades, then I have to seriously reconsider whether it's worth our time. #earlylang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    A3 I treat games like procedures and we practice as much as needed so that they know what to do and stay on TL #EarlyLang
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A3: Practice, repetition, and modeling. Use lots of movement, actions, songs, chants, games...practice stories, dialogues, and poems #EarlyLang
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    A3: Keep a positive attitude; make it comprehensible through visuals, gestures, and props; and involve the kids as much as possible. #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    We're on Q3: What are some strategies you employ to keep students engaged in the TL while playing? #earlylang
  • TrishBart8 Oct 10 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    Trish from Australia, I teach Mandarin Chinese Y3-6 #EarlyLang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    A2 I like to teach you Ss traditional games that they can play in partners or groups ChequiMorena #NaranjaDulce #UnElefante #VeoVeo #EarlyLang
  • windycitysenora Oct 10 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Uf! Late day! Sorry I'm late. Valerie from Chicago--gr 4-8 #EarlyLang
  • TarniaCovooper Oct 10 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Yes! I totally and admittedly #teacherstole it from an @SimpleSongs (Super Simple Español) song. They have a series of songs called Veo Algo with different colors. I use it with colors but it would work well with any object in a room i'd imagine. #earlylang
    In reply to @lucijgalvan, @SimpleSongs
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    A3: I get in there play with them and model the language for them. If I hear English, I play dumb and state back to them in slow French what they eant to say. #earlylang
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    A3 - I only do whole group games and activities with my students that are from 3-5 years. I model a lot & teach simple words & phrases so they can actively participate. When I hear something they want to say in English, I teach them how it is in Spanish. #EarlyLang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Q4 coming up soon! So many great responses here! #EarlyLang
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A3 #earlylang it’s so hard to get the Ss to stay in the TL while playing. Recently we had our 3rd graders come up with sentences about things they & their partner liked in order to receive 5 LEGO pieces. Then they ran up to us to say it & wouldn’t stop speaking to earn more!
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A3: A lot of routines help keep everyone in the TL #earlylang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A2 I also use a Spa versioning #rockpaperscissors or a tin Marin de 2 pingüe cucara macará títere fue to choose randomly or line up 😉 #EarlyLang
  • TrishBart8 Oct 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A3 for my younger students I make boardgames and have puppets for role playing, for older students we play #Quizlet live and #kahoot #EarlyLang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Q4: How can play replace less effective teaching and learning? #EarlyLang
  • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A3 committed to using TL from day 1 so playing games and imaginative play fall under this ☂but as others have mentioned LOTS of modeling, singing, chanting, repetition with a sprinkling of novelty to keep it engaging, and a class mantra “no comentarios en ingles!” #EarlyLang
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A3 #EarlyLang I morphed my learning this summer and am using Dojo with my older Ss. They earn $ for things like talking Spanish, and will use it to buy things from the class store. An S will be the banker, & another the store keeper; it will be an authentic language application.
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A3: I love TL brain breaks with the chocolate hand clapping, and rounds of roca, papel, tijeras. #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A3: I use a lot of environmental print - word walls and such to help. Or for certain activities I put print on the board. Oh look, somone made it funny: https://t.co/Sl722b7sVr #earlylang
  • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Incentive work really well, too. If they’re playing and one speaks English, there is generally a consequence that we’ve modeled before (e.g. back to the start, lose a turn, etc) #earlylang
    In reply to @sspielb
  • MaCristinaRV Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A3: I use reminding language whenever I hear too much L1. They don't want the fun activity to end, so they resume their interactions in L2 😊 #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4 #EarlyLang Again, it comes back to creating a context and real world application. Some teaching practices are ineffective because Ss can’t relate to them personally; they aren’t enaged. Play creates a way for Ss to relate.
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4: Recently someone on social media was grousing abt her 3rd graders not able to conjugate verbs. It made my heart cry. Those kids should be playing with the language. Save conjugating for later (or never). #earlylang
  • Sra_Kennedy Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A3: I have students brsinstorm words and phrases in the TL they might need before we start. I write them on the board so they can reference if needed. #earlylang
  • SraTewes Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4: Play makes the language meaningful and necessary #earlylang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A1 Here’s a vlog post I wrote about it https://t.co/MEc7zx17Sz #EarlyLang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4: I think out of anything kids want to do, they want to have fun. And what's more fun than playing with your classmates and teacher? It's also a great escape for some, to "become" someone else for just a little bit. #earlylang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Ok I think I’m caught up 😆#EarlyLang
  • Sra_Kennedy Oct 10 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    I'm hoping I saw the same post and it wasn't two people but I also saw that recently as well. #EarlyLang
    In reply to @nathanlutz
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A4 Play takes the boring out of the equation. Acquiring language while having fun? Yes, please! #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A4 not to mention, my main goal is to make sure they are all enjoying what they do. One of ACTFL's HLTPs is to teach through context. Imaginative play just heightens the reality of that context. #earlylang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    Hey #earlylang. We're on Q4: How can play replace less effective teaching and learning?
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A4: Learning through play helps students practice languages in their everyday lives #EarlyLang
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A4 Learning through play shifts a teacher-centered classroom into a student-centered classroom #EarlyLang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A4 If incorporated as part of lessons on regular basis an it is well done #EarlyLang
  • MaCristinaRV Oct 10 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A4: Play and imagination is our #earlylang learners' modus operandi. Have you eavesdropped lately?
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    The #earlylang chatters are very chatty tonight. Awesome!
  • SECottrell Oct 10 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    Oh my goodness #earlylang I just realized what time it is. Sad droopy emoji here.
  • Sra_Kennedy Oct 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A4: For me play is also good for classroom management. Students want to learn and participate so they can do the fun things. #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    Q5: How do we help stakeholders understand how our students' play in class supports their language acquisition? #earlylang
  • SECottrell Oct 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    Seriously. Because it is not in my nature to play anymore. So shifting to play makes it REALLY about them! #earlylang
    • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:43 PM EDT
      A4 Learning through play shifts a teacher-centered classroom into a student-centered classroom #EarlyLang
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    A4 - I try to constantly asses if the play time, games, songs etc... are helping my students achieve the learning goals in a meaningful, age-appropriate, relevant & enjoyable way. #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    Q5 #EarlyLang I work in a district that encourages this sort of thing. I think it would be important to have your goals posted as can-do statements - both for students, but also so any stakeholder can walk into the room and understand why students are doing what they are doing.
  • MllesrtaUrso Oct 10 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    A5 Excellent question. Invite them into your class! Have them see, firsthand, what play can do with your students! #earlylang
  • srtacoulehan Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    ❤️ #NNELL #Earlylang conferences!
    In reply to @MaestraAubreyCT, @srhoward
  • SECottrell Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A5 I find classroom teachers & elementary admin especially supportive, actually, because mostly they know it ALL happens through play! #earlylang
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A5 My students want to speak Spanish. By incorporating drama, imagination, silliness, and play into our lessons, we learn and practice the language skills they demonstrate outside of the classroom. I do struggle with people who give my kids Jeopardy questions. #earlylang
  • SenoritaBasom Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    Hey #EarlyLang! Betsy, Spanish Grades 3-6. Meet you later on my west coast #slowchat. Looks like you are having fun! 🤪
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    World languages- let’s talk about emotional intelligence, perseverance, risk-taking, learning to be vulnerable, communication, LISTENING, collaboration, & the ability to CONNECT. Take the 5 C’s and notice how they apply to any and all things! Go @SenorG!! #langchat #earlylang
    • SenorG Oct 10 @ 12:35 AM EDT
      In 12hrs I'm presenting the Colorado Board of Education w this petition to ensure that WORLD LANGUAGES be included in guidelines for a Postsecondary & Workforce Readiness (PWR) High School Diploma Endorsement RT if you support us! https://t.co/Hih8Iywd6r #langchat #edcolo #actfl
  • Sra_Kennedy Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    Sometimes they get really creative and come up with things I wouldn't have thought of. I sometimes forget (like today) to do it and I always regret it. #EarlyLang
    In reply to @sspielb
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A5 Make sure you invite your admin to visit you! Better yet, tell them they can drop by WHENEVER because it's always fun and they're practically always playing. #EarlyLang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    A5: heck, even w/ kids, we need to help them understand play. I mentioned "work" to Kindergarten once and they said "we don't work in your room, we go there to play!" #earlylang
  • CoLeeSensei Oct 10 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Do you know how lovely it is to open up Twitter have a whack of - okay a few in a row - tweets from @SECottrell filling your feed...even if you don't work in #earlylang? Love reading your stuff amiga!
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5 showcase those moments in whatever medium you can: BOE meeting, class website, school site or Twitter feed.... #EarlyLang
  • SECottrell Oct 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5 b/c kids understand play, they understand the process in the TL intuitively, it seems to me, and grown ups are fascinated watching this. #earlylang
  • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5 #EarlyLang Educate stakeholders about proficiency. I studied Spanish formally for 12 yrs. I could conjugate verbs, but the first time I travelled I couldn’t do anything with it. “I drink, you drink, he/she/it drinks ...” but I couldn’t say, I need something to drink.
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    #earlylang - we're on Q5: How do we help stakeholders understand how our students’ play in class supports their language acquisition?
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A5 I'm lucky to have support of my "stakeholders"...they encourage play and advocate for more playtime during school hours. #EarlyLang
  • MaCristinaRV Oct 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A5: We refer to play and imagination as "learning activities" in our class...😉 #earlylang
  • ErickaCollado Oct 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A5 Story of my (our) life! 😆 I’ve learned that if children are happy, learning and having fun, everyone is happy The issue is when the play is perceived as wasting time #EarlyLang
  • sspielb Oct 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    One of my goals that I actually wrote up and brought to my supervisor is to create space for silliness in my classroom. Nothing will create a stronger class connection than a contagion of the giggles! And that opens everyone up to the hard stuff. #earlylang
    In reply to @rrrrrrrrrrrrosa
  • SraTewes Oct 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A5: Show others what your students can do with the language—share learning goals (with students and others) #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    What a stellar #EarlyLang tonight!! we'll reflect in a few minutes!
  • Sra_Kennedy Oct 10 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    Yes, as a special area teacher sometimes other teachers think all we do is play (but in a bad way.) It's important to make sure people do understand they're learning activities. #EarlyLang
    In reply to @MaCristinaRV
  • glendadehoyos Oct 10 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    A5 - I'm so proud to say that my school support play, promote play and believe in the power of play to learn academic, social & emotional skills. #EarlyLang
  • SrtaOwens Oct 10 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    A5 Check out this article about Finland's high-performing schools...15 minutes of recess per 45 minutes of instruction #EarlyLang https://t.co/VbKj6uz47m
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    SAME. We need to make this change so our students don't have this happen either! #EarlyLang
    • MaestraAubreyCT Oct 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
      A5 #EarlyLang Educate stakeholders about proficiency. I studied Spanish formally for 12 yrs. I could conjugate verbs, but the first time I travelled I couldn’t do anything with it. “I drink, you drink, he/she/it drinks ...” but I couldn’t say, I need something to drink.
  • TrishBart8 Oct 10 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A4 learning through Play makes the students think they are playing and having fun, I love it when my SS say that lesson went quickly #EarlyLang
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Hey #earlylang community - don't forget - we'll have a summary of the chat posted soon - go to https://t.co/tk6YPDGaMR to see our growing collection
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    RF (Reflaction): How will new aspects of imaginative play appear in your classroom after tonight's #earlylang chat?
  • nathanlutz - Moderator Oct 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    RF: I should try to add more intrigue into class. More surprises, more anticipation. #earlylang
  • rrrrrrrrrrrrosa Oct 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    RF I hope to bring more (scripted, measured, structured) play to my squirrely 4th graders. I like what @Sra_Kennedy said about class environment - we all want to be part of the group so let's play together. #earlylang
  • JL_Delf Oct 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Good reminder! #EarlyLang