How Languages are Learned TEFL Office of Overseas

How Languages are Learned TEFL Office of Overseas Programming & Training Support (OPATS)

Characteristics of Learning/ Teaching Foreign Languages: Ш develop physical habits Ш develop mental habits learn both the content and the medium of the content Ш develop capacity to use language in real life situations Ш practice extensively –seek internalization Ш Productive feedback so we know we are getting it right Ш

*Scaffolding and Internalization u What is a scaffold? How is the term translated into language of this country? u Why do we need scaffolds? What do we do when we’ve finished the building? u Any idea how scaffolding relates to learning? Workmen on a scaffold

Scaffolding: Helping learners do what they can not do on their own

How do teachers help learners do what they can’t do on their own? u u u u u Say it and also write it Gesture and make movements Draw pictures and diagrams Supply a word or phrase when a student is stuck Remind them of what they are supposed to do. Ask leading questions to help students remember. Provide guidance during practice (be a mentor), and give just-in-time feedback and needed praise Emphasize key points and scaffold review Model how to do activities.

What happens when the teacher pulls away the scaffold too soon? u What would happen to the building if you removed the scaffolding before the building had structural integrity? u If students don’t get enough practice to internalize the learning (that is, so that they “own” their learning), they will not be able to do it on their own after the practice is over. u Practice enough and review enough so that students internalize your good teaching. u Otherwise you’ve provided great scaffolding for nothing.

Thank you !