Practical Proficiency Podcast

Send us Fan MailI'm doing something different today and sharing my candid origin story as a language lover.  From early childhood immersion in Japan to a Dominican study abroad wake-up call, tracing how real-world input shaped my teaching style. • early immersion in Japan shaping views on communication• choosing French to connect friends and stop exclusion• juggling French and Spanish and mixing systems• study abroad shock and the gap between grades and speech• differences between academic literacy and real-world fluency• discovering proficiency and comprehensible input• shifting assessments to what students can do• maintaining language outside the classroom with habits• the parenting choice to let go and protect joy• honoring strengths of native and non-native teachersSend me a text with your language question using the new feature below, or email me at [email protected]! Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis episode breaks down why transitioning from legacy methods to proficiency feels so hard, then maps practical, low-prep moves that make it sustainable and joyful. I name the common traps—misaligned assessments, training gaps, immersion shock—and share tools to protect your energy while students grow.• reframing the class as a skill, not a subject• what novice mid can really do and how to aim there• why systems feel outdated and how to navigate them• colleague buy‑in and the realities of department culture• the training gap between theory and classroom routines• curriculum choices and the limits of story‑heavy approaches• easing students into higher target language use• setting expectations with parents and administrators• aligning assessments to instruction with IPAs and rubrics• sustainable, low‑prep CI strategies that reduce burnout• using AI to generate comprehensible input and save timeCheck out my ACTFL deep dives on the blog. Join the Practical Proficiency Network for scaffolded support. Grab the Joyful CI Classroom Systems free audio training linked below.Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a tool can write a passable Spanish 1 paragraph in six seconds? We took that provocation and built a practical roadmap for world language teachers who want less busywork and more human connection. From accent cleanup to comprehension‑friendly formatting, we walk through concrete AI prompts that shorten prep without flattening your voice. Then we go deeper into the CI engine: generating level‑right PQA and picture talk questions anchored to performance indicators, so you enter class with a rich menu instead of a blank page—and keep your energy for the live work only you can do.We also tackle the elephant in the staff room: cheating and assessment. If a bot can complete a take‑home essay, it’s not measuring growth. So we pivot to tasks AI struggles to mimic—live interpersonal checks, one‑take audio and video, annotated readings with visible thinking, and experiential homework that sends students into the world to notice language and report back. Along the way, we share differentiation prompts that surface fast, scaffold slow, and require zero extra copies, all tied to clear can‑do statements. The goal is simple: spend more minutes on communication and less on clerical churn.Underneath the tactics is a human reminder. Errors are not defects; they’re the gold seams that show where growth happens. AI won’t kill language. It will kill busywork and force us to design work that matters. We close with ethics and responsibility—citing assistance, watching environmental impact, and setting norms students can carry into college and careers. If you’re ready to keep your class target‑language rich, joyful, and sustainable, press play, steal the prompts, and tell us what you’ll hand to AI this week.If this helped, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more language teachers can find these tools. What human‑only task will you double down on next?Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailWe push back on the myth that comprehensible input only works for charismatic teachers, and we reframe proficiency as a guiding philosophy rather than a single method. Practical, low-lift strategies take center stage to show how any teacher can build high-impact, student-centered classes.• defining proficiency as a north star for outcomes • separating CI philosophy from specific branded methods • why social media highlight reels skew expectations • examples of low-lift, high-yield CI routines • student-centered interaction over grammar-first planning • assessment focused on what learners can do • inclusive paths for different teacher personalities • invitation to share experiences and questionsBlog post on CI terms: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.com/what-is-ci-teaching-proficiency-vs-legacy-for-world-language-teachers/Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailFeeling stuck on the same unit while your elementary learners still “haven’t mastered it”? Let’s flip the script. We take a clear-eyed look at short, 25–30 minute language classes and show how cognitive load theory can make those minutes add up to real, joyful progress—without grinding through endless repetitions of the same theme.We break down intrinsic, extraneous, and germane load in plain language and apply them to young learners’ brains. You’ll hear why rituals shrink mental friction, how to craft compelling input with a tiny set of high-value phrases, and how to recycle language through new contexts so kids actually remember. We share a simple four-part lesson arc—ritual, input, spiral, high‑energy exit—that works whether you see students daily or once a week. Along the way, we challenge the myth of “mastery” in language learning and offer a practical 70–75% rule to decide when to move on.You’ll also get concrete ideas you can run tomorrow: use songs and stories to boost comprehensible input, lean into parroting and rhyme to lower barriers, and anchor a term with a class play or storybook project that naturally spirals vocabulary and structures over time. We talk schema building vs memorizing lists, how to balance nouns with high-frequency verbs and connectors, and why trimming English instructions can supercharge focus in the target language. By the end, you’ll have a blueprint for making short lessons memorable, sustainable, and fun—for you and your students.If this helped, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more teachers can find it. Got a question you want us to dig into next? Send it our way—we’d love to feature it.Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailI answer a listener’s question about teaching vocabulary consistently by reframing every class as a vocabulary class that moves words through a three-stage continuum: introduce, recognize, produce. I share the science of binding, why stories beat lists, and how to keep scope tight so students actually acquire language.• binding as the foundation for sticky vocabulary• stories and visuals as the most effective input• the three-stage continuum: introduce, recognize, produce• realistic repetition counts and pacing• limiting sets to 10–15 terms to avoid overload• a three-lesson flow from input to gentle output• avoiding memorization traps and translation-heavy quizzes• low-prep options with drawing, reusable sheets, and AI drafting• spiraling old terms while adding new onesText the podcast with your question! —info in the show notesSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailWhat if a 10-second ritual at your classroom door could boost target-language use, cut awkward silence, and build community—all at once? We walk through the “student password” routine step-by-step, from the first day you model it to the moment it becomes second nature. You’ll hear why this low-stress habit works for novice learners, how to adapt it for big classes and tight hallways, and the best ways to scaffold with sentence starters, visuals, and posted prompts so every student can succeed.We also share how to choose the right password for your goals. Want more interpersonal practice? Use simple questions tied to can-do statements like What’s in your backpack? or What’s your name? Meeting only once or twice a week? Lean on short, memorable phrases—song lines, cultural rejoinders, or idioms—that students can echo with confidence. You’ll learn why keeping a password for several days matters, when accuracy should take a back seat to fluency, and how this routine quietly reshapes behavior so students answer in the target language without freezing.Expect practical tips, realistic workarounds, and honest talk about pitfalls: inconsistency, forgotten prompts, and how to handle late or anxious students without turning the door into a stress point. We credit Bryce Hedstrom for the strategy and point you to resources that expand the approach. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to launch, reboot, or refine passwords so your class starts strong every day, with students speaking from the moment they arrive. If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review—what password will you try first?Find out more about Bryce Hedstrom here: https://www.brycehedstrom.com/Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailWe answer Sherry’s two-part question on engaging autistic learners in an ASL classroom and creating a sane, effective plan for frequent absences. We share concrete, low-lift strategies that center detail-focused questioning, visual supports, and input-replacement systems that actually work.• Detail-first prompts and either-or questions for autistic learners• Visual status cards and icon-based sentence frames• Predictable routines for partner work and turn-taking• Comparison tasks anchored in daily routines• Input-replacement hours instead of one-off makeup packets• Duolingo and curated media lists as low-friction tools• Clear policies and gentle boundaries for chronic absences• Resources and training recommendations including Linda Hodgdon• Practical systems to reduce teacher workloadLeave a review if this helped you so that we can reach more educators and let them know that like this is a cool place to hang out on the interwebsSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailAsking students to speak in a new language can feel like asking them to step on stage without a script. We dig into why anxiety hits world language classrooms harder than most, then share nine practical ways to make participation feel safe, predictable, and—dare we say—enjoyable. Drawing on resources from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the International OCD Foundation, we translate research into clear moves you can use tomorrow: stable routines, visible agendas, partner‑first interactions, and quick one‑to‑one check‑ins that remove the burden of self‑advocacy from anxious learners.We walk through how validation works without lowering expectations, how to slow the pace without losing momentum, and why generous recycling of input is not remedial—it’s the core of acquisition. You’ll learn how to bake stress relief into your class culture with box breathing and short regulation breaks, and how to design predictable, proficiency‑oriented assessments that mirror your daily practice. No pop‑quiz panic, no mystery formats—just small, routine checks that show growth in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Along the way, we share sample prompts, participation flows that replace cold calling with safer partner talk, and simple benchmarks to gauge when to pause and reinforce.If you’ve ever wondered whether quiet means apathetic (spoiler: it often means anxious), this conversation offers a humane toolkit to lift the affective filter and raise target language use. Expect tangible ideas you can plug into your syllabus, from weekly agendas to rotation plans for targeted relationship building. Subscribe for more practical strategies, share this with a colleague who needs a calmer class, and leave a quick review so we can reach more teachers who want safer, braver language learning spaces.RESOURCES FOR UNDERSTANDING STUDENT ANXIETY: https://www.schoolcounselor.org/newsletters/january-2020/coping-with-student-anxietyhttps://kidshealth.org/en/parents/anxiety-factsheet.htmlhttps://anxietyintheclassroom.org/school-system/resources-for-school-personnel/how-to-talk-to-your-students/https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/school-health/mental-health-in-schools/supporting-students-with-anxiety-in-school/?srsltid=AfmBOoqj4NYmjRG3yk3rPvShcHugNivWgFkc-1tuwoY_B3dmNh0dnsM4Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailGrammar—the eternal battleground of language education. Is it the foundation of language learning or a distraction from real communication? In this eye-opening exploration, we cut through decades of misinformation to reveal what research actually shows about grammar's role in language acquisition.Drawing directly from ACTFL's guiding principles, we examine the surprising truth: "explicit teaching of grammar has little effect on people's language acquisition, comprehension or writing abilities." This doesn't mean grammar is irrelevant, but its place in our classrooms demands serious reconsideration.You'll discover why "linear grammar"—that neat textbook progression from present to past to future tense—completely misaligns with how our brains actually acquire language. Through fascinating examples (like why third-person "-s" in English is mastered so late despite being "basic"), you'll understand why frequency and meaningful context matter more than grammatical simplicity.For those who love analyzing language (and as teachers, many of us do!), we offer practical guidance on finding balance. Learn when grammar instruction becomes genuinely useful (hint: it's not at the beginning), how to shift from grammar-driven to communication-centered teaching, and why creating "play time" with language might be the most valuable gift you can give your students.Whether you're struggling to move beyond traditional grammar-focused instruction or seeking validation for a more communicative approach, this episode provides the research-backed perspective needed to make confident instructional decisions. Transform your understanding of what truly drives language acquisition and discover how grammar can support—rather than dominate—the joyful journey toward proficiency.Join our community of forward-thinking language educators by subscribing to the Practical Proficiency Podcast and accessing additional resources at LaLibreLanguageLearning.com.Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe proper role of grammar in proficiency-oriented instruction requires a mindset shift from traditional approaches to one that aligns with what research tells us about language acquisition.Watch the episode on youtube here: https://youtu.be/zo1ys4aCh5A• Grammar isn't driving your language program—it has the snacks while you decide the direction based on student proficiency levels and goals• Understanding grammar does not lead to acquisition, but helps make existing language more accurate• Pop-up grammar offers quick, contextual explanations when students notice patterns without extensive practice or assessment• Inductive grammar engages students in discovering patterns themselves, which improves retention and understanding• A three-week grammar bootcamp provides a transition strategy for teachers in grammar-heavy departments• Treating grammar as functional chunks (like teaching "je voudrais" instead of the entire conditional tense) works well until intermediate levels• Accuracy becomes more important in years 3-4 when students have enough language to refine• Canadian research shows input-only programs still need some accuracy focus at the right timeSubmit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! Check out the ACTFL Levels Series episodes here: Novice Low: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318898/episodes/15045273Novice Mid: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318898/episodes/15045294Novice High: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318898/episodes/15152805Intermediate Low: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2318898/episodes/15827515Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis is a special insider episode where you get to see what it's like to be a part of the Practical Proficiency Network! Join us for this amazing insider look and masterclass workshop on target language. Find out more about the Practical Proficiency Network here: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/join-practical-proficiency-networkThis workshop reveals 15 common mistakes language teachers make when using target language and provides practical solutions to create a more immersive, interactive classroom experience.• Avoid making interaction a memory test by focusing on successful communication rather than vocabulary recall• Interrupt yourself every 30-60 seconds to check for understanding through questions, visuals, or activities• Shift from content obsession to student-focused interactions by being a "party host" instead of just covering material• Create a "pool party" environment with appropriate scaffolding instead of throwing students into an overwhelming "ocean" of language• Celebrate language attempts instead of constantly correcting errors, especially with beginning learners• Focus on making everyday classroom moments happen in the target language rather than worrying about exceptional circumstances• Slow down curriculum pacing to allow students to play with and internalize language before moving to new content• Make cultural lessons more accessible through comprehensible resources rather than defaulting to English• Keep classroom routines consistent to build confidence in target language use• Match assessments to classroom practices by evaluating interactive communication rather than just formIf you'd like more support implementing these strategies, join the Practical Proficiency Network for regular workshops, resources, and a community of language teachers committed to effective teaching practices.Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailEver wondered why teaching Spanish to middle schoolers requires such a unique approach? In this episode, we dive deep with Brooks from Sonrisas Spanish into the fascinating developmental sweet spot of middle school language learning.Brooks from Sonrisas Spanish is here today to chat all things middle school Spanish curriculum and classroom techniques like TPR Storytelling to promote acquisition in a way that works for younger learners, from Pre-K, Elementary, and middle school Spanish. Sonrisas Spanish has gained this experience through providing unique Spanish curriculum tools designed especially for elementary and middle school Spanish. Get a free sample Spanish curriculum unit from Sonrisas Spanish: https://www.sonrisasspanishschool.com/request-free-sample/WATCH THE EPISODE VIDEO HERE ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/ujRAGr7M6LYFind out more about Sonrisas Spanish: Sonrisas Spanish empowers you to improve student outcomes, increase student engagement, and have fun teaching Spanish—while you save time planning.The journey begins with Brooks sharing how he and his wife transformed their bilingual education background into a Spanish curriculum that has evolved over decades of classroom experience. What started as after-school programs blossomed into a comprehensive K-8 curriculum built on sound pedagogical principles and real-world efficacy.Middle school students exist in that remarkable transition space—no longer responding to elementary methods but not yet ready for high school approaches. Brooks reveals the "acquire, develop, learn" methodology that guides the Sonrisas curriculum, explaining how younger students naturally acquire language through play-based activities before middle schoolers are developmentally ready to learn the "how and why" behind grammar concepts they've already internalized.The magic of their middle school approach lies in thoughtful structure combined with engaging teaching methods. Each thematic unit follows a consistent 10-lesson sequence incorporating culture, grammar instruction, and TPR storytelling—a method thaSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailEver felt like the lone Spanish teacher on an island, wondering if everyone else has figured out the secret to effortless curriculum mapping? You're not alone. In this heartfelt conversation, veteran teacher Diane opens up about her 23-year journey teaching Spanish and the transformative power of finding professional community.Today, I have a very special guest for you - Diane! Diane is an experienced Spanish teacher in a small private school. She is retiring this year and has spent the past year in my membership, the Practical Proficiency Network. Get more info and join the PPN here: www.lalibrelanguagelearning.com/joinThis video is all about her unique story of building a Spanish program from scratch, using VOCES and story-based teaching, and her unique and wonderful opportunity to hire and teach her program's successor teacher. Both of these wonderful Spanish teachers work with me in the Practical Proficiency Network. Diane is here today to share her story and her experiences in the PPN. *** disclosure: Diane volunteered to share her honest opinion of the membership and was gifted a free month of membership in exchange for this testimonial.***Diane candidly shares her struggles with curriculum planning across multiple course levels, the pressure to cover textbook material, and the nagging question all language teachers face: are my students actually acquiring language or just memorizing vocabulary lists? Her story resonates with anyone who's ever closed their classroom door at the end of a challenging day wondering if other teachers face the same battles.The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Diane reveals her upcoming transition to mission work in El Salvador and her current role mentoring her successor. This unique arrangement highlights the profound impact of teacher-to-teacher support and the ripple effects of professional development. When Diane discovered resources that validated her experiences and offered practical strategies, she immediately advocated for her replacement to have access to the same community.What emerges is a powerful reminder that teaching excellence isn't Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailAre you tired of watching your language students cram for final exams only to forget everything a week later? It's time to revolutionize your assessment approach with something that actually measures what matters: what students can DO with the language they've acquired.Get the portfolio only available in the Practical Proficiency Curriculum here: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/practical-proficiency-curriculum-world-language-infoWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/XuyxCX5MCFUIn this episode, I unpack how replacing traditional final exams with carefully designed portfolios creates authentic assessment opportunities that mirror real-world language use. Rather than testing isolated vocabulary and grammar points under pressure, portfolios allow students to demonstrate their genuine language capabilities through evidence collected throughout their learning journey.The beauty of the portfolio approach lies in its flexibility and authenticity. You'll discover how to create a simple framework based on 15-30 targeted can-do statements that represent your course's essential skills. Whether you've meticulously saved student work all year or need to help students recreate evidence during those chaotic final weeks, I provide practical strategies for implementation that won't overwhelm you or your students.What makes portfolios particularly powerful is how they transform student mindsets. When learners know they'll ultimately showcase their skills in a comprehensive collection, they approach each unit with greater intention and retention. This creates a cumulative learning experience rather than the compartmentalized "learn-test-forget" cycle typical of traditional courses. Plus, portfolios provide redemption opportunities for students who struggled earlier in the year but have since developed proficiency.The portfolio approach also solves many end-of-year challenges: it provides meaningful work during days with spotty attendance, reduces the "checking out" phenomenon that leads to behavior issues, and eliminates the stress of high-stakes testing. By focusing assessment on what students cSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe "And You" game transforms speaking practice in world language classrooms, helping students overcome anxiety while having fun with movement and authentic communication.• Based on a college orientation icebreaker game that needs minimal preparation• Students form a circle with placeholders, with one person in the middle making a statement• Anyone who shares that trait must find a new spot, creating movement and engagement• Works with any language unit - from basic likes/dislikes to clothing, food, or complex topics• Offers scaffolding for shy students through group responses and visual supports• Requires sufficient comprehensible input before asking students to produce language• Can be adapted for any proficiency level by adjusting complexity of required statements• Most effective when kept short (about 10 minutes) and followed by discussion• Turns the class community into authentic content for language learningEmail me at [email protected] with your favorite speaking activities!Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailPlanning a world language unit doesn't have to be a solo mission - this episode offers a detailed walkthrough of teaching adverbs of frequency with a proficiency-oriented approach. I share my exact five-day plan for introducing, practicing, and assessing this grammar concept in a way that follows the natural language acquisition process.• Following the gradual release model from input to output• Day 1: Introducing adverbs of frequency through personalized teacher examples• Day 2: Contextualizing input through categorization and notebook activities• Day 3: Incorporating games, songs, and authentic texts with techniques like running dictation• Day 4: Beginning scaffolded production with information gap activities• Day 5: Extensive practice through "speed dating" activities followed by assessment• Designed for block scheduling but adaptable to different contexts• Perfect for novice high and intermediate low proficiency levels• Opportunities to recycle previously learned vocabulary while introducing new conceptsSubmit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailLanguage teachers everywhere face the same challenge: how do we create units that actually lead to acquisition instead of just memorization? The answer lies in understanding how our brains naturally process and store language.In this eye-opening episode, I break down the six-phase structure that every successful proficiency-based unit must follow. Starting with context-rich input (the "glue" that makes language stick in students' brains), we explore how declarative versus procedural knowledge explains why students can sometimes recite grammar rules perfectly but freeze during conversations.You'll discover why rushing through the comprehension phase is a critical mistake that prevents true acquisition, and why many teachers unwittingly sabotage their students' progress by skipping essential steps in the acquisition process. I share practical, classroom-tested strategies for each phase - from input introduction through comprehension, gradual output release, authentic contexts, presentational practice, and finally to meaningful interpersonal communication.Using comparisons as our example structure, I demonstrate how to adapt this framework for both brand-new concepts and reviewing previously introduced language. You'll learn how to determine appropriate timing for each phase based on your specific teaching context and student needs, rather than arbitrary pacing guides.Whether you're teaching novice learners or advanced students, this structural framework provides the scaffold your proficiency-oriented units need. Stop wondering why your students struggle to use language they've "learned" and start designing units that follow the brain's natural pathways to language acquisition.Have you tried structuring your units this way? Share your experiences in the comments or on social media using #PracticalProficiency. And if this episode helped you, please leave a review to help other teachers discover these strategies!Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailPatience trumps perfection when transitioning to proficiency-based language instruction, as veteran Spanish teacher Kia London reveals in this enlightening conversation about her journey teaching at a new school. With 19 years of experience across all grade levels K-12, Kia brings genuine wisdom about adjusting instructional pace to meet students where they are—without compromising high expectations for target language use.Watch the interview here: https://youtu.be/eknSSQBX4xAConnect with Kia London: bit.ly/klondontrailblazeintolanguagelearning.com https://www.instagram.com/clases_de_london/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/groups/culturallydiverseequitablecurriculum  https://twitter.com/MaestraLondon  https://www.tiktok.com/@kdl_trailblaze https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf2Rcb0xkR7R8_lLbt5dB4gWhen Kia moved to her current high school (coincidentally her alma mater), she faced a significant challenge: students unaccustomed to the 90%+ target language environment she cultivates. Rather than lowering expectations, she embraced a semester-long process of scaffolding, repetition, and strategic classroom design to bring students along. Her detailed approach to creating visual supports, recognizing student feedback cues, and building a classroom culture where "I don't understand" is welcomed rather than feared provides practical takeaways for teachers at any stage of their proficiency journey.The conversation explores the delicate balance of pushing students beyond their comfort zone while being responsive to their needs. Kia shares specific strategies that transformed initial resistance into engagement—like reducing homework load to improve quality, modeling activities before practice, and using station work to foster peer support. Most inspiring is her celebration of student growth beyond language acquisition itself, as she witnesses learners developing confidence, leadership, and problem-solving skills.For teachers struggling with the messy middle of proficiency implementation, Kia's mantra that "consistency beats perfect" offers refreshing permission to embrace the journey rather than expect overnight transSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe ability to describe people - both physically and by personality - isn't just another vocabulary list in your world language curriculum. It's a pivotal developmental milestone on your students' language journey, marking their transition from me-centered language to a broader world of expression.Devon Gunning breaks down why description skills serve as the defining characteristic separating novice low, mid, and high levels according to the latest ACTFL Performance Descriptors.  This episode provides age-appropriate strategies for making description relevant and engaging, with practical activities you can implement immediately: celebrity "Guess Who" games, dating app profiles for fictional characters, picture talks, and multimodal matching activities that provide abundant comprehensible input.For Romance language teachers, Devon offers a refreshing perspective on teaching grammatical gender - skip the extensive rules and instead provide pattern-rich input that allows students to discover the patterns themselves. Resources Mentioned: French 1 Physical Descriptions Task Cardshttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/French-1-Physical-Description-Vocabulary-Adjective-Agreement-Games-10690811Practical Proficiency Curriculum with Units: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/practical-proficiency-curriculum-world-language-infoSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe moment a language student first connects with a native speaker is electric—that realization that "I can actually do this!" This transformative experience is precisely why students enroll in language classes, yet ironically, interpersonal communication often receives the least classroom time.Devon Gunning dives deep into this paradox, examining why speaking activities frequently take a backseat to reading and writing in world language classrooms. Beyond the obvious classroom management challenges, she reveals how educational priorities have shifted toward literacy-focused initiatives at the expense of authentic communication practice.Drawing from years of classroom experience teaching Spanish and French, Devon shares practical strategies for integrating more interpersonal activities without creating management nightmares. From structured speaking quizzes and info gap activities to classroom passwords and human scavenger hunts, these approaches work even for novice-level learners. Her innovative "Soul Train" and "Speed Dating" techniques provide frameworks that make speaking practice engaging rather than intimidating.The key mindset shift? Viewing yourself as a "party host" rather than a traditional teacher—someone who facilitates connections between students through compelling questions and scaffolded support. Devon walks through a gradual confidence-building approach, starting with small groups before moving to pairs and eventually individual responses.This episode challenges the conventional wisdom of language education, arguing that the most valuable skills are often the hardest to assess—and that we must prioritize them anyway. "You cannot drill communicative ability," Devon reminds us, quoting Bill VanPatten. "It develops when we find ourselves in communicative contexts."Ready to revolutionize your language classroom? Devon's practical challenge to carve out just 10% more time for interpersonal communication could transform your students' language acquisition journey. Listen now to discover how making speaking the "secret sauce" of your instruction can ignite student engagement and proficiency.Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailStep into the vibrant world of Carnaval! In this UNIT IDEAS mini-episode, we explore how this much-beloved celebration transcends mere festivities to become a powerful teaching tool for world language educators. Carnaval is not just a festival but a rich cultural phenomenon that allows students to connect with diverse traditions and identities. From the historical origins of Carnaval to the various ways it’s celebrated across the globe, we dive deep into cultural narratives that shape identities. Learn how to creatively incorporate Carnaval into your language lessons with a list of ready-to-use ideas for your next Carnaval culture unit! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and subscribe for more enriching content!Resources and links mentioned: Carnaval de Québec Virtual Field TripMartinique Virtual Field TripMardi Gras High-Frequency Reading Dominican Republic Carnaval Virtual Field TripSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailReady to transform your language classroom with the power of music? Discover how Roxxem, an innovative platform co-founded by Shawn Lee, is changing the game for language educators. By turning popular songs into engaging lessons, Roxxem offers flexible resources that enhance student participation, improve listening skills, and deepen cultural understanding. From complete lesson plans to quick activities that energize the classroom, Shawn shares how these music-infused tools make language learning memorable and culturally enriching.Sign up for Roxxem for FREE here* (affiliate link)  Ever wondered how a song could ignite a lifelong passion for languages? Tune in to learn about the incredible impact of music in Spanish classes, as we share personal stories of cultural curiosity sparked by the hits like Manu Chao's "Me Gustas Tu." Music doesn't just teach vocabulary; it connects students to a world beyond the textbook, encouraging them to explore and embrace new cultures. With Roxxem’s vast array of resources, educators can seamlessly integrate music into their curriculum, providing students with an unforgettable learning journey and genuine cultural connections.Explore the transformative potential of Roxxem's platform, featuring customizable tools like Whack-A-Word and Lyric Puzzle. Shawn guides us through the platform's robust search function, which helps educators find the perfect song for their classroom needs. From beginner to advanced learners, Roxxem offers comprehensive resources that save teachers hours of planning, ensuring that music becomes a central, dynamic part of language education. Join us as we celebrate the fusion of music and teaching, and discover an exciting upcoming music challenge collaboration designed to take language learning to the next level!*affiliate means that I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to upgrade to premium. Thanks for helping to support the show! Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailStrong relationships is the first and most essential foundation to a target-language rich world language classroom. Tune in to see my top 10 tips for classroom management and building student relationships specific to world language teachers! Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe Digigals, Jennifer and Theresa, have written a combined 120 novels for world language classes. Listen with us as the Digilangua creators, known as the Digigals in their dynamic duo, answer real community questions from the Practical Proficiency Network teachers about how to better use novels in the target language to promote literacy and acquisition in world language. Check out Digilangua - an e-reader platform for comprehensible novels: https://www.digilangua.net/Watch the video version of the podcast here Digilangua is the official novel partner of the Practical Proficiency Network! Get exclusive discounts on your Digilangua readers when you join the Practical Proficiency Network here: lalibrelanguagelearning.com/joinSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailEver wondered: am I teaching the right things? How do I know that my units are getting the job done? This episode mini-series on unit and skills to include in each level was inspired by a common question from the Practical Proficiency Network membership. Here, we'll dive into years 1 & 2 of your world language program. DOWNLOAD THE PDF OF UNIT IDEAS HERESubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailIntermediate Low is the most misunderstood proficiency level. Let's dive in with a teacher-friendly description of what your intermediate lows can actually do with language. We'll also talk about how to adapt your curriculum to better serve your novice highs to transition into intermediate low.The new ACTFL Proficiency guidelines for 2024 are HERE! This final episode in the ACTFL levels series comes from a common listener question - what level should my students be in and how do I know that?  Let's talk about what Intermediate Low actually looks like and what it means for your world language program. Check the ACTFL 2024 Proficiency Guidelines here Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe Practical & Comprehensible conference is back for 2024! Meet presenter Kia D. London to hear more about her awesome presentation and focus on teacher longevity and maintaining joy, especially as an introverted middle school teacher transitioning to high school. Sign up for this free conference July 29-31 here: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/a/2147894883/GJRfMpay#affiliatelink this is an affiliate link for Kia - this means you will be directly supporting her work by registering for the conference through this link, at no cost to you. The conference is FREE after all!Connect with Kia London: trailblazeintolanguagelearning.com https://www.instagram.com/clases_de_london/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/groups/culturallydiverseequitablecurriculum  https://twitter.com/MaestraLondon  https://www.tiktok.com/@kdl_trailblaze https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf2Rcb0xkR7R8_lLbt5dB4gSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe Practical & Comprehensible conference is back for 2024! Meet presenter Pav of Fle avec Mme D to hear more about her awesome presentation and focus on beating teacher burnout through her journey of having no designated prep time since covid hit her classroom. Sign up for this free conference July 29-31 here: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/a/2147894883/hcrEUR9b#affiliatelink this is an affiliate link for Pav - this means you will be directly supporting her work by registering for the conference through this link, at no cost to you. The conference is FREE after all!Connect with Pav of FLE avec Mme D: https://fleavecmmed.com https://www.instagram.com/fleavecmmed/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/3784502934939511/   https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Fle-Avec-MmedSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe Practical & Comprehensible conference is back for 2024! Meet presenter Allison Perryman of The Cultural Classroom to hear more about her awesome presentation and focus on social justice, representation, and identity self-exploration through culture in her Spanish class.  @theculturalclassroom  Sign up for this free conference July 29-31 here: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/a/2147894883/H5yebP4L#affiliatelink this is an affiliate link for Allison - this means you will be directly supporting her work by registering for the conference through this link, at no cost to you. The conference is FREE after all!Connect with Allison Perryman of the Cultural Classroom: theculturalclassroom.blog https://www.instagram.com/theculturalclassrm/ https://www.facebook.com/TheCulturalClassroom   https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Cultural-Classroom-By-Sra-Perryman  https://www.youtube.com/@theculturalclassroomSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailPractical and Comprehensible is the premiere conference event each year for  proficiency-oriented world language teachers! This year, come meet the speakers on the Practical Proficiency Podcast to get a sneak peek and bonus content from the presenters!Meet Timothy Chávez, who is presenting this year on thematic units with social justice as the focus. Use this link to register for the free virtual professional development conference and you'll be directly supporting this speaker, at no additional cost to you: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/a/2147894883/rZBrNX2QConnect with Timothy: [email protected]://www.instagram.com/communicativeteacher418?igsh=MTF6aGg0b2trcDVieQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrSubmit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe Practical & Comprehensible conference is back for 2024! Meet presenter Courtney Bonino of Llearning Llama to hear more about her awesome presentation: ARTful Lesson Planning! Her presentation this year is all about how to use Art in your Spanish classes and world language classes at large. Sign up for this free conference July 29-31 here: https://lalibrelanguagelearning.mykajabi.com/a/2147894883/2N4XSeyR#affiliatelink this is an affiliate link for Courtney - this means you will be directly supporting her work by registering for the conference through this link, at no cost to you. The conference is FREE after all! Connect with Courtney Bonino of the Llearning Llama:[email protected]://www.instagram.com/llearningllama/https://www.pinterest.com/llearningllama/https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Llearning-LlamaSubmit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis one is for novice high - the level you'll spend the most time with in your career! Listen to get in-depth examples for exactly what novice highs can do with language, in teacher-friendly language of course! Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailWe're continuing this series on the new 2024 ACTFL guidelines. This answers a common question I get - what level should my students be in and how do I know that?  Let's talk about what Novice Mid actually looks like and what it means for your world language program. Check the ACTFL 2024 Proficiency Guidelines here Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThe new ACTFL Proficiency guidelines for 2024 are HERE! Our new series comes from a common listener question - what level should my students be in and how do I know that?  Let's talk about what Novice Low actually looks like and what it means for your world language program. Check the ACTFL 2024 Proficiency Guidelines here Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailIt's here, the one we world language teachers have been waiting for - culture lessons! However, culture is complex. Our solution to exposing students to widely diverse cultures should be equally complex and thoughtful. Here's some practical ideas to get you started. Find the mentioned free French Units for back to school here Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailHey hey hey, it's assessment day! This could be a giant deep dive. Today, we're focusing on how to switch mindsets from our assessments being an occasional to a REGULAR and CRUCIAL piece of the proficiency-oriented classroom. They help your students as much as they help inform you!Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailToday's element - input! This is a proficiency teacher favorite. We always talk about how important it is, but that doesn't always mean that YOU need to be the source.  Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we discuss a list of the people I enjoy learning from to further my journey into equity-driven education. These are the trusted speakers, writers, and teachers to follow and keep in your feed! Head here to the accompanying blog post for the list of DEI speakers and leaders in the world language space. Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailToday's element - the class! Everything should be a conduit for conversation in world language. So where does that leave teachers? As the party host, of course! Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailLet's dive into how to use movies in your classroom! Allison of Mis Clases Locas is an expert in utilizing culture-rich movies as a source of input and cultural perspectives, especially for multiprep teachers. Connect with her below and be sure to join the conference in June!! Allison Wienhold of Mis Clases Locas has over a decade of experience as a #deptof1 secondary Spanish teacher in Iowa. Allison loves to help save busy World Language teachers time with resources and professional development at misclaseslocas.com @misclaseslocasMovies Blog Post https://misclaseslocas.com/appropriate-movies-for-spanish-class/Comprehensible Iowa 2024 Infohttps://misclaseslocas.com/comprehensible-iowa-conference/Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailToday's element is all about the speaking and the signing: how to make sure we're doing the right speaking activities at the right time. Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis is the essential world language teacher framework for each piece of your target language rich classroom based on proficiency practices. If you're into proficiency-oriented instruction, here's where to start.Today's element deep dive is on how to finally get interaction with your students through 2-way communication: rejoinders, hand signals, the works! Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis is the essential world language teacher framework for each piece of your target language rich classroom based on proficiency practices. If you're into proficiency-oriented instruction, here's where to start.Today's element deep dive is on the one we use the most in class: a target language delivery system. Learn one of the key elements of making proficiency WORK FOR YOU instead of you working so hard for proficiency. Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis is the essential world language teacher framework for each piece of your target language rich classroom based on proficiency practices. If you're into proficiency-oriented instruction, here's where to start.Today's element deep dive is on real-world context. We teach one of the most useful skills in the world. Let's keep it that way! Download the 10 Elements PDF GUIDE here Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailDive a little deeper into the #1 element - curriculum, scope, and sequence. This is the essential world language teacher framework for each piece of your target language rich classroom based on proficiency practices. If you're into proficiency-oriented instruction, here's where to start.Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout)Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis is the essential world language teacher framework for each piece of your target language rich classroom based on proficiency practices. If you're into proficiency-oriented instruction, here's where to start. Go to Blog Post of the 10 Elements of Proficiency Oriented World Language Instruction (contains image printout) Today, we're doing an overview of the 10 elements and how to recognize them. Remember that these are all what it looks like in its ideal form - no one is quite here yet. Some areas are easier than others to add to your classroom. Take action - pick 1 element from today's episode and see where you can make some tiny tweaks to add more target language into your world language class today!Rate for good karma and share with a colleague who would benefit. Thank you for spending your time with me today!Submit your question here Download the free audio training "The Joyful CI Classroom System" here  Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show! 

Send us Fan MailThis is my story of what proficiency-oriented instruction for world language teachers means to me. How I got started with comprehensible input, how much I loved it, messed up, and then learned there was a more practical approach to teaching language. New to the Practical Proficiency Podcast? Start here!Submit your question here Find out more and join the Practical Proficiency Network hereLet's connect: Get the Free World Language Teacher ToolkitGet the Free Roadmap to ProficiencyWebsiteTPTInstagramYoutubeFacebookLove this episode? Get access to over 150+ trainings, instructional coaching, and an amazing peer community of proficiency-oriented teachers in the Practical Proficiency Network Submit your questions about proficiency, grammar, or creating communicative classroom environments through this link: https://airtable.com/appOp9IY7Ah77oYup/pagpRzuEqAVZgBnrk/formand I'll answer them on the show!