David sent this question:
Hi all,
I’ve been trying hard this year to not force production with the kids, and with great results. I feel for the first time, that taking out the forced production piece has lowered the affective filter, given kids the ability to better process what they are hearing and reading, gave room to gesturing and quieted the class overall. All good stuff – but what do you think about this…
For the past few years I’ve had the kids go around before Winter break caroling some holiday songs in Latin other classes around the school. I play my half-size accordion and we go to teachers rooms and administrative offices who I have pre-checked in with that it is ok to give them a song on a set day, (usually the day before break). The kids have some jingle bells and things too. Most of my kids really enjoy this and look forward to it. They get to walk around, sing for their friends, etc. But I’m sure some feel a little on the spot to produce the language, especially the Latin 1s. Even though we practice the songs for a few days before, I’m sure it is difficult for many of the level 1s and they are understandably hesitant at first to sing in Latin.
What do you all think? Should I do this again this year, or is it not the best idea? I thought maybe I could make it a voluntary thing and tell kids they could gesture or something – but some of these songs would have A LOT of gestures. That’s the other thing – some of the vocab. is unknown. I lean toward maybe only having upper level kids do this this year, but was curious what the group thought. I don’t really care if they acquire all the words or not of course; the main point of the whole thing is to have fun and share some joy with other students, teachers and administrators. (And they all love it each year).
Thanks!