This semester I am experimenting with
using more Spanish in my classes. The first two
days I used Spanish exclusively as I explained
the course to them. I gave them two smallgroup
tasks to do in Spanish. The first was to
describe their previous experiences in English
classes, and the second was to describe what
their ideal English class would be like. Gradually
I reduced the amount of Spanish I was
using and added more English.
I use Spanish to make comprehension
checks. It is important as you go along to periodically
make sure students are understanding.
I will ask, “Does everyone understand?
Who can tell me the Spanish translation?” Or,
after making an important point, I will ask,
“Who can say what I just said in Spanish?”
and I wait until I get an acceptable translation.
I find my students enthusiastic and receptive
with respect to our classroom activities. I also
feel very much in touch with them, as we share
a common language when necessary.
In spite of my allowing a role for Spanish
in my classroom, students spontaneously use
English in class and while working on tasks.
They frequently use English with me when
they come up with questions or comments
after class. I feel the relationship we have
developed by my using Spanish occasionally
has made my students more eager than usual
to tackle the challenges of learning English.
Attendance is excellent and most are
doing classwork and homework regularly. We
also have a lot of fun in class.