by Megan Smith | Jan 5, 2019 | Basic Phrases, What's New
I’ve always looked for ways to incorporate new target language sayings and idiomatic expressions in class. They feel more fun than the higher function phrases we use more regularly and students love the reaction they get from using them with native speakers. In fact, according to ACTFL performance descriptors, the ability to recognize and use some idiomatic expressions is a sign of an Intermediate language learner. Advanced learners would be able to handle even less common expressions. So, when considering a new phrase… I like to look to current culture to find out what’s trending in music or social media or any other current source. Here are three I’ve seen a lot of lately that you may want to use right away in class!
by Megan Smith | Dec 7, 2018 | Christmas, December
Here are our favorite Spanish-language ads from the 2018 holiday season. Whether you show them all at once or one-a-day until break… they show a different perspective, a new culture, and a strong message that this time of year is about more than just gifts....
by Megan Smith | Dec 5, 2018 | What's New
Music is a big part of holiday traditions and I love how each culture has unique songs that connect to the season. There’s nothing wrong with “All I want for Christmas is you” feat. Justin Beiber, but I like to expose students to music that is really...
by Megan Smith | Dec 4, 2018 | 6 By Languages, Community, December, What's New
I’ve seen and heard of a lot of great things WL teachers are doing in their own classrooms, but what really gets my attention is when I hear about great things happening throughout a WL department. Teachers need space to teach and connect with students in their...
by Megan Smith | Sep 24, 2018 | Monday Motivation, Teacher Problems, Teacher Talk, What's New
You’ve made it through the busy days of the first weeks of school. You’ve learned names, set procedures, and are inspiring students about a new year of language learning. Everything is going great… until one day, it isn’t. As teachers, we tend...
by Megan Smith | Aug 10, 2018 | 2 Authentic Resources, AP Themes, First Days, Movies, Proficiency, Units, What's New
Here it is. I’m openly against a “review unit” in the world language class (or any class actually). (If you love them, keep reading. You might change your mind. If not, we can still be friends even if we disagree.) I’ve tried starting the year with a review, and...
by Kara Parker | Aug 8, 2018 | Class Decor, First Days
The school supply list is out! Are tissue boxes on your list? If so, check out one way to add a little learning to that item. I taught at a school that said tissue boxes and other supplies cannot be for extra credit because students should not be buying their grades....
by Kara Parker | Aug 1, 2018 | 1 Planning, First Days, Proficiency
I’m starting to see teachers on social media heading back to school! Where did the summer go?? The syllabus can be one way to set proficiency expectations at the beginning. We’ve updated our past syllabus template, plus added an additional template with a...
by Megan Smith | Jun 3, 2018 | What's New
The school year is wrapping up for most teachers and summer vacation is almost here. Transitioning from a busy, action-packed routine to a more relaxed and carefree one can be difficult… right?!? 😉 Looking for a few ideas to enjoy your summer AND get inspired...
by Megan Smith | May 26, 2018 | Last Days
Published on May 16, 2015 Grammys! Emmys! Golden Globes! Nobel Prize! ESPYs! Every year we celebrate all kinds of accomplishments. Those nominated for the different awards are simply being honored for their hard work and success achieved! Our students also work...
