Teaching Spanish Through E-Portfolio Development

Using an E-Portfolio to Teach Spanish

With each incoming generation of students, there is a greater and greater interest and involvement with technology in the classroom. Today's students receive, and assimilate, information in a different way than what occurred a decade ago. As such, it is up to teachers to learn about, and utilize, technology in order to reach our learners. Below you will find a link to an E-Portfolio which I have created. Included are examples of a Voicethread, PowerPoint, Lesson Plans and a WebQuest.

Add a Link

EPortfolio

Enjoying the Food of Mexico

Eating Authentic Mexican Foods

One of the best things about travelling to a foreign country is trying out all of the different foods at the many exotic restaurants along the way. While in Mexico, my family and I ate at as many authentic Mexican restaurants as possible. It was fun trying the many dishes that we had never even heard of. Occasionally, we would prepare a meal at our rental home in Akumal. We were delighted to find a local resident who prepared fresh tortillas for us every morning. If you have ever tasted the real thing, fresh off the griddle, then you know that there is no comparision between authentic tortilla and those we get in the U.S. supermarkets. How we missed those fresh tortillas when we returned home!

My Favorites

The Benefits of Self Study

If you really want to learn Spanish there is only one way to do it - take the initiative and study! There are many websites available to help you learn. Some are designed for older students and adults, while others are definitely meant to cater to young learners. If all of the glitz and animation is not for you, then find one that works for you and go for it. The beauty of self study is that you can take your time, making sure you master pronunciation as well as content. Here are some of my favorites.
www.spanishspanish.com and www.learnspanish.com

Enjoy!

Typing Punctuation in Spanish using Microsoft Word

Spanish Punctuation

Spanish uses most of the standard English punctuation marks, plus some. If you want to type Spanish text, first make sure your word processing program is set to US-International English. To do this go to your control panel and click on the Regional and Language Options, then Languages. You will want to make sure you have entered a check next to US-International English. I have composed a short tutorial that will help you use a standard keyboard to type the special Spanish punctuation marks needed when writing text.

Feeling the Language

Stages of Language Acquisition

I think the stages of language learning are not so different from those of learning to walk. We take steps, we stumble, we waddle, fall and then run. Beginning language learners often face similar challenges as they try to piece together a logical dialogue with words that won't come, and using grammar that does not make sense. The wonderful thing about learning a second language is the feeling one gets as they become more and more proficient. To me, it is the point at which one 'feels the language' that learning becomes truly enjoyable. The disconnect between thinking and speaking gradually fades and we begin to speak spontaneously. At that point you know that you have taken ownership of your new language. What remains is to have fun with it.

How the Love of Language Got Hold of Me.

I well remember my high school Spanish classes. Long, tedious, boring! There were countless conversations to memorize, and lists and lists of vocabulary. I also remember well my Spanish teacher, because she had one very interesting trait - she never smiled! Those classes were very long and never did I think I would end up teaching Spanish! During my subsequent college years, language learning was put 'on the back burner' for years. Instead, I pursued my interest in science. I also loved to travel (and still do). This led to an interest in working overseas. I decided to join the Peace Corps, and was sent to Colombia for two years. Entering the country with me was a group of about 20 trainees. During our pre-service period we lived in Bogota, each of us taking up residence with a different host family. Our language training was intense, beginning at 8:30 am and continuing until 5:00 pm. The particular language program used was based on the Foreign Service Institute curriculum. This was the same program used for diplomats and other international professionals. It was an exciting program, well organized, and full of challenges. After 10 weeks of successful language training, we were then sworn in as official Peace Corps Volunteers. By that time, the beauty and music of the Spanish language had a hold on me, and the in-country adventures began! But, that I'll save for another blog. Until next time.....hasta luego!

Learning to Teach Spanish

Welcome to My Blog!

Halfway through the school year! This is a perfect time to reflect on the past, analyze the present, and anticipate the future. During this second year of teaching Spanish, I have learned a great deal about how to teach a second language. We all know that knowing a thing, and teaching it, are two very different experiences. I hope to share the things that worked for me, as well as those that didn't. Please send any suggestions you may have for teaching a second language. Until then.....Hasta luego!