Effort creating Ability in Spanish class
Credited by Mr. and Mrs. Lyons, Spanish teachers at Greensburg Salem High School
How does effort create ability in language acquisition?
Language acquisition is an effort-based endeavor; there are no short cuts. The average person of average intelligence needs approximately 750+ hours of contact to become functionally proficient. The goal of the simulated immersion class is to get every student as close to this level as possible. Therefore, the whole class is conducted in the target language. Students are required to speak to me and to each other exclusively in the target language. This is the only way to learn. They are also encouraged to listen to music, read magazines and newspapers, watch movies and speak to each other in the target language outside of class. In the simulated immersion class, more than in most others, "effort creates ability" is the key. Students are given unlimited possibilities to re-do, re-submit- re-work and demonstrate they are acquiring the language. There are also many opportunities for "bonus". Any student can receive the grade he/she desires with more effort
How is the world language class rigorous?
The simulated immersion classroom is very rigorous. Students are required to use upper level thinking skills and problem solving skills continually to figure out ways to express their ideas and figure out what is being said. There is no time for daydreaming or off task behavior! Also, students are required to synthesize new concepts and ideas with prior learning and expand what they are able to express and understand. Students are expected to be prolific in speaking, writing and listening in all three modes of communication; interpersonal, interpretative and presentational. All activities are part of their grade.
Most colleges and universities require three or four years of language study for admission and many require a placement exam. Also, more and more majors require a minimum number of language credits as part of the major course of study. The rigor of the immersion class prepares students well for university level language study.