My colleagues told me the vocabulary was too low-frequency, that I should not waste my time on regional words they had never even seen, like chapulín. But I had five goals that have only a little to do with learning particular Read more…
My students have not personally approved every song on this list. But these are the songs I have found since last year that hit the two main requirements: Language they can use Lyrics they can’t forget High-frequency ear worms, tat’s the Read more…
“Less” has been the most powerful resolution I’ve made as a teacher, yet this year I was tempted to flip it on its head and resolve “More.” It’s not that I have finally narrowed my focus TOO far. It’s that Read more…
My new work amigas said I needed to plan in some low-stress fun, not just for the kids, but for me too. And while I don’t have any memory games locked and loaded like my colega had for her class, Read more…
I’m struggling for real, you guys. I sincerely, sincerely believe that authentic opportunities for engaging with other speakers of the language for an authentic purpose is the most effective and important way to motivate language learners. But man, oh man, if I could just Read more…
PHASE 3: SUPER SPEED I am eagerly anticipating this phase. This phase will mean I can call on (almost) any kid to answer the questions without reviewing the yes/nos and then just get down to business. In this phase, almost Read more…
I over planned my first two weeks at my new school. You would think that over planning meant I was also over prepared, ready to handle anything they threw at me. In reality, though, it ended up being quite the Read more…
We need to acknowledge that, yes, learning a language does tend to change who they are and how they see the world. But it’s not because they’re deficient to begin with, but rather because we all are in a constant state of growth–although sometimes in directions that are dangerous, if we’re not careful.
I have a side job, but it’s not that I need the money. I need the peace of mind the job itself brings. I have gone through months where I could barely make myself write, much less grade or plan a Read more…
Establishing trust and purpose the first day of Spanish class at a new school