Resources for Language Learning

Resources for Language Learning

Module OverviewModule Overview

Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Textbooks and teacher-

developed materials Section 3: Technology in language

learning Section 4: Authentic resources;

texts and people

Connecting to the StandardsConnecting to the Standards

Resources connect to MANY areasin the standards:

Language & Culture Language PedagogyEthics & ResponsibilityPersonal Characteristics

Program Standards

Textbooks, materials, authentic texts, andICT should be

EngagingInformativeRelevantCulturally appropriateFunEasy to usePurposefulVariedAge/level appropriateScaffoldedLogical sequencingPedagogically sound

Your textbooks!Your textbooks!

Eg. Vocabulary lists

Evaluate YOUR textbook/ materials!Evaluate YOUR textbook/ materials!

How are these points treated?

CommunicationMacro skillsCultureLearning to learn

Authentic resources!Authentic resources!

There are two aspects of authenticity to consider…There are two aspects of authenticity to consider…

Authenticity of… the resource

context, purpose and context

language, cultural relevance

the use the learner makes of it

What do we mean by authentic resources?What do we mean by authentic resources?

photographs Food packaging Maps Printed texts of heaps of things Souvenirs Advertisements Newspapers Costumes / clothing Real songs PEOPLE - native speakers, other students, teacher Films, games, recipes, music, art, museums

P M Iplusses minus’ interesting questions

So, what authentic resources do you use?So, what authentic resources do you use?

Consider the texts you use, or those you have access to, from an intercultural perspective

In what ways can they promote active construction of learning/ideasmaking connections with prior learning, new knowledge, across languages and cultures interaction – between learners/users of the language reflection on language learning and use responsibility for learning and for appropriate communication across cultures?

How can we make authentic resources accessible?How can we make authentic resources accessible? Vocab lists Questions to focus investigation Comparing to students own experiences Using excerpts Focus on visuals Using heading to predict, skim, scan, use key

words…. Relate to things students WANT to learn/know -

motivation to figure it out! Etc….

Resources for language learning are diverse and full of potential

Summing up…Summing up…

Resources need to be used creatively to engage students productively, and respond to their diversity of knowledge and experience.

Resources must scaffold learning for particular learners in particular learning contexts.

Resources require ongoing appraisal to ensure…

…they provide appropriate learning opportunities based on principles of intercultural learning, and your own criteria /values.

……the program maintains its contemporary relevance, to engage with the target language and culture as it is lived and used today!