PoLT Online Professional Learning Resource – Principle 2

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Vignettes – Middle Years – Traveller's tales

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Example

Traveller's tales

Fernando’s Year 8 LOTE class is investigating ‘Travellers’ Tales’. At the completion of the unit students will present an exhibition in the LOTE that promotes their selected travel destination. The presentation will illustrate their understanding of appropriate vocabulary and structure; and teamwork. During the negotiation of the unit students reflect on their experiences and learning. Fernando facilitates discussion about countries where some students have travelled; and encourages small group research regarding countries in which they are interested. The discussion and research is undertaken in English with information stored in a folder for consultation. To help the students organise their research, Fernando introduces POPTARTS – a graphic organiser, which allow the students to proceed step by step, in a logical way. His prior experience with this strategy is positive, particularly with many boys who were overwhelmed by research. The graphic organiser proved to be an effective scaffold.

Fernando explicitly introduces pertinent LOTE vocabulary and structure. The class completes a range of activities and exercises aimed at acquiring and developing the LOTE on the topic of travel.

Fernando then models a presentation of information, texts and photographs of the LOTE country, speaking in the target language.

In small groups the students develop a strategy plan and timeline for the project. Fernando emphasizes each student’s unique skills and contribution. He draws their attention to wall posters that reinforce the roles and rules of group participation.