Hello to all Cutlure SIG members! As the semester ends at my university, I am moved and impressed by the work that our teacher candidates have accomplished.
I have the incredible opportunity to work with colleagues who believe in the power of service learning and how it connects and supports language learning—both for foreign language teacher candidates and those who are studying literature and culture.
When referring to “high-impact learning practices,” we know that they are important for our language classrooms at all levels. But what does this mean for how we instruct teacher candidates? How do we use high-impact practices in these classrooms AND encourage candidates to enact them in their own communities or classrooms?
Many of our ACTFL members spoke about this at the 2014 conference, so I encourage you to access their information at ACTFL.org. I would like to share a personal experience of how non-traditional language and culture instruction can change a student’s perspective regarding the world around them.
Two very dedicated teacher candidates developed a group for the Boys and Girls Club in our city: “Le Club French Fries.” As noted by the Club Director, students responded to initiatives that emphasized a final product…and food! To his first point, we can all point to supporting research. As for the food, most of us recognize the power of the promise of food for students at any age!
Over the course of the semester, Amber and Erin, joined by a third candidate, Kayla, developed activities that allowed students to access French language and culture in fun and engaging ways that finished in an final “café” celebration.
To explore French culture in the context of cafés and food, students made Eiffel Towers from pretzel sticks, decorated coffee mugs, and illustrated storefronts using art supplies and butcher-block paper. During the final “celebration,” students were offered the chance to try French cheeses, Nutella, jams, baguettes, sparkling juice, and…of course…french fries in paper cones.
Not only did all students report a positive view of the Club group, they demonstrated language and culture skills related to the overall theme. Although methods courses and the syllabus provided a foundation for the opportunity, it was the teacher candidates who ultimately conceived the idea and developed it. Now that’s a high-impact learning situation for the candidates and the students involved!
Perhaps teacher candidate Amber best expressed the power of service learning for high-impact practices: "I felt so proud to represent VSU and our French program, and I am pleased to know that I really am making a difference. Everyday I am reaffirmed in my decision to major in French, from the closing ceremony of Nat'l French week to La Fête of the B&GC."
Instructions for some activities follow; if you would like to view the course syllabus, please send a message through the ACTFL Communities space.
Pretzel Eiffel Towers: http://ediblecrafts.craftgossip.com/pretzel-eiffel-tower/2011/11/11/
Sharpie mug decoration: http://www.livingyourcreative.com/2014/01/diy-sharpie-mugs/
General information on high-impact learning practices: https://www.aacu.org/leap/hips