Language Latte: A Podcast for World Language Teachers

In this episode we are discussing motivating the students in our classrooms. As language teachers, we know that if students aren’t interested in the language we’re teaching, their progress will be stagnant, and their attitudes will affect the entire mood of the class. Motivation is at least as important as aptitude in acquisition.

Today, I examine a theory of motivation, and how we can apply them in education settings. Science- and experienced teachers- tell us what works to get kids motivated and inspired in class. Then I talk to Australian teacher Simone Baluch, who shares tips and activities she uses to get her learners excited, curious, and attentive in class.

Student-teacher relationships are critically important, yet they receive far less attention than academic performance indicators. The research overwhelmingly suggests that when teachers and students have positive relationships, and teachers show empathy, warmth, and encourage thinking and learning, we see the positive effect on cognitive student outcomes, increase in participation, and increases in self-esteem.

In this episode we are looking at the importance of teacher-students relationships, how they affect learning, and what the research says about community building in class. Then we speak with John Bracey, who shares activities he uses to build community, and how they have even helped with classroom management and behavior.

In this episode we are discussing the use of media in our classrooms. Photos and videos are excellent authentic resources, whether as curiosity-inducing speaking/writing prompts, a look into cultural insights, an introduction of vocabulary, or as a source of comprehensible input. We look at why and how media is effective in engaging students in class, and then you are going to love the 6 activities that Sarah Breckley shares in her interview.

From the United States, stints in Spain, Ecuador and London, and now to Mexico, I discuss my educational journey to become an ESL and Spanish teacher. In addition to my experiences in the classroom, I also share the history of my web site, KidWorldCitizen.org, and how I came to start the Language Latte podcast.

We are on episode 6, and today we are talking about ACTFL: American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. We are looking at the mission of ACTFL and their role in supporting world language teachers. What are their Can-Do statements and proficiency guidelines and how can teachers use them in their classes?

Today I am interviewing Victoria Gilbert, an experienced Spanish and French teacher who is the world language chair at a private K-8 school in New York City.

Let’s dive into the innovative, high-quality tools ACTFL has written to meet the needs of language educators and students, and then we’ll take a look at how teachers can utilize them in class.