#217

Have you ever wanted to use an authentic resource like a menu, a meme, or a social media post, but thought, “My students aren’t ready for this”? Actually, they are. In this episode, I’ll show you how to use authentic texts at every proficiency level, even with absolute novices. I’ll share practical suggestions for selecting and scaffolding activities that support student engagement with authentic resources.

Topics in this Episode:

• If you’ve ever hesitated to use authentic materials because you thought students weren’t “ready,” this episode will help to shift your thinking by giving you the tools to bring real-world input into your classroom now, no matter the level.
• Authentic resources are not the reward for reaching proficiency—they are the pathway to proficiency.
• The key is in how we select and scaffold those resources. You don’t have to wait until students understand every word. In fact, they shouldn’t. Because interpretive communications one of the most essential skills we can build.
• Classroom Strategies
  • Adjust the Task, Not the Text:you don’t need to change the text. You change what you’re asking students to do with it.
  • Use Visual Context and Chunking:include visuals, labels, and structure—and then break the text into manageable chunks.
• Ready For Tomorrow Quick Win PD Course: Use Authentic Documents at Every Level

A Few Ways We Can Work Together:

• Ready For Tomorrow Quick Win PD for Individual Teachers
• On-Site or Virtual Workshops for Language Departments
• Self-Paced Program for For Language Departments

Connect With Me & The World Language Classroom Community:

• Website: wlclassrom.com
• Instagram: @wlclassroom
• Facebook Group: World Language Classroom
• Facebook: /wlclassroom
• LinkedIn: Joshua Cabral
• Bluesky: /wlclassroom.bsky.socia
• X (Twitter): @wlclassroom
• Threads: @wlclassroom

Send me a text and let me know your thoughts on this episode or the podcast.