Reviews are an essential part of the student language-learning process. Every class should begin with a cumulative review of all the material covered in the current unit, and the course should end with a cumulative review before the final assessment.
Students need constant exposure to the content in order to truly master the vocabulary, grammar, and language functions to achieve a higher level of proficiency in all four language skills. Remember: REPEAT-REUSE-RECYCLE!!
Below are some guidelines for creating an effective review session:
- Begin with a checklist of all the topics covered to date: language functions, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and culture.
- Write out the review in advance, checking off the items on your list (above).
- Create activities that incorporate multiple topics together (grammar, vocabulary, language functions).
- Be sure to review all the items that students will encounter on the final assessment.
- Practice the language as it would be experienced in the real world.
- Do not introduce any NEW language functions, vocabulary, or grammar during the review.
- Create “open activities” that are appropriate for the language level. See the Steps to Mastery™ article for more information on open activities.
- Use activities familiar to students at the beginner level. Do not introduce complicated activities or games that are completely new and will take a long time to explain.
- Use a variety of audio and visuals.
- Do not spend a lot of time on material that students have already mastered; use the time to practice the more challenging topics.
- Prepare a review handout for students to take home and study before the test.
- Some suggested review activities include: Jeopardy®, category games, situational role plays with props, and Pictionary®.
Creating effective reviews is just one component of establishing an effective language learning environment for your students. Look for more articles in the future on this topic at: www.stmpublishing.com/language-teaching-blog.