5 Step OWI Process
We want complete buy-in from our students when creating a one word image with them. This requires that we are 100% understood when building the image. Here is one way to accomplish that goal.
The process is done in English:
(1) First, point to the space with respect. Convey the idea to the students that it is a kind of sacred space. Use your hands expressively. Stay physically out of the space. This visualization process is one of making a “mental sculpture”.
(2) Next, say, “I need an object!” Do not accept just any object. Only accept suggestions that the class wants as a whole. Go to your Prof. #2 if needed to make the decision, but generally it is best if you are the one to choose, because if you are not invested in the object, the class won’t be.
(3) Inform the class: (a) “Suggestions must be simple, with no moving parts”, (b) “Food is good”.
(4) Now write the word on the board in both languages. As you look at the word in the TL, you may wish to explore what the word sounds like with the students. Say it in different ways, playing with the sound, kind of tasting it. In some students, you may see the sublingual beginnings of speech. This is often a point where the class begins to relax and open their hearts up to the process of making one word images.
(5) If the class decides that the image is small, use a stool to build it on.
(6) Now begin with the first question in L2, “How many?” and work your way through to the last of the seven OWI questions of “Kind or mean?” While doing this, do the following: (a) walk to the word before opening your mouth, (b) put your hand on the word, (c) say the word, but only after your hand touches the word. This technique of “Walk Before You Talk” will be demonstrated in our session. It is key to the successful completion of any one word image.