I sent this to my principal this past week, as we plan class distribution for next year. I think that it is a good idea. Exploring multi level classes is something that we don’t do enough of, especially in light of the new (ACTFL based) standards.
Sir –
I hope to convince you that, by combining French 2 and French 3 students into one class next year, we will speed up the process of bringing the EHS French program to the level of AP. Combining the current level 2’s (next year’s level 3’s), with my current level 1’s (next year’s level 2’s) will create a strong and capable group for the AP exam that would be on track to pass that exam as level 3 or 4 juniors and seniors. Why?
1. We already have the data for a mixed level class from Meredith. She has proved that, in that class, the level 4’s made the most progress. Her data compared students from homogeneous level 4 classes with her level 4 students in the mixed level class and their writing samples surpassed the others by no small margin. This data was published in Blaine Ray’s Fluency Through TPR Storytelling, 5th edition, pp. 320-325.
2. Students need repetition. With the 2’s and 3’s together, the 3’s get even more of the necessary repetition and their language acquisition is solidified and further reinforced.
3. In light of the new Colorado standards, which do not refer to levels but rather to proficiencies, this model is perfect.
4. The students who are in my classes with TPRS instruction will be able to remain for 2 years as opposed to switching to a teacher who uses a traditional method which does not support language acquisition but rather teaches about the language.
5. Scheduling would be really easy.
6. ‘Rock Star’ level 2 students could test into level 4/AP combo class for the following year. This should be a great year long incentive for those at the top of the class. I have about 10-15 students currently in level I who have the academic firepower to take and pass the AP exam in level 3, as juniors.
I have 100% confidence in getting both levels aligned with the new state standards at the Mid/High level by the end of next year, and then, as mentioned above, have those students “where they need to be for the AP” – High Novice/Low Intermediate.
Thanks for reading this – it should facilitate our discussion.
Ben Slavic
[credit: Diana Noonan for the best ideas in the above text]