This report from Lori asks for some ideas from the group:
Hi Ben,
I haven’t asked you to reach out to the community in awhile, but since I’m finally exiting the “frantic” period with TCI (I’m in my third year now) I have time to share some exciting news! Would love to hear what the community thinks of this!
My principal and instructional coach have invited me to lead a PD on TPRS/CI to teachers of other subjects outside of WL! The goal is twofold. They want the teachers to understand how our world language students are now acquiring a second language but she also sees potential in using our strategies in other subject classrooms. I will be giving a 1 hour presentation to 3 sets of teachers in ALL subjects. I was thinking half an hour explanation and mini lesson. 15 minute explanation of some of my ideas on how to apply our theory and strategies to other subjects and 15 minute for by subject brainstorming.
How cool is this!
So here are some of my thoughts on CI/TPRS as it relates to other subjects in my school:
TPR/gestures helps retain vocabulary in any subject.
Theory of comprehensible input applied to other subjects: There has been much talk in our school about academic vocabulary tiers. A lot of our students are lacking in the lower tiers. CI here would mean not rushing into the higher vocabulary until they are ready. And when using the higher tier vocabulary choosing fewer words and teaching for mastery to the concepts behind the vocabulary.
The importance of relationships. Because we talk about them they are motivated. Also they sincerely are happy that we are interested in their lives. 🙂
Creating stories to help students understand abstract concepts. I was speaking with a Spec. Ed colleague the other day who was having trouble with his LRE students grasping the concept of separation of powers. This to me screamed story! these students have small classes for all their core classes so it would be very doable to act out a story with everyone involved. It’s funny, these same students are very successful in my French classes. And I have 30 students there.
What do you think of my ideas so far? What else can you think of?
I’m pretty excited.
Lori
