One of the hardest parts of a world language teacher’s job is keeping the students in the target language. There are always side conversations and answers shouted aloud in the first language (L1). Some days I want to give up and just allow it, but that is one of the worst things you can do. Try some of these tips and tricks, and hopefully your students will be motivated to use their second language (L2) in the classroom.
- This first idea requires students to hold each other accountable. Assign each student a partner. When they hear their partner speak in L1, they make a tally. At the end of class, you can collect this and assign a grade, or give a bonus to the person with the least tallies.
- You need a prop for this one – maybe a small stuffed animal or even a sign. The teacher should have possession of this prop at the beginning of the class, but the moment you hear one of your students using L1, now the prop gets passed to that student. If another student speaks in L1, then it is passed to them, and so on. At the end of the class whoever is stuck with the prop, has an extra homework assignment! No one will want to speak in L1 if there is more work involved outside of class!
- Post signs around the room to provide students with conversation starters, common expressions, grammar hints, and more. By doing this, you will give them input all day long without even having to say a word. (Of course hearing the teacher speak is essential, too!) Use those classroom walls as a resource! This may even help the more reserved students speak up because they will know their answer is correct.
- As the teacher, you should only be speaking in L2. If they hear it, they will learn it and eventually put it into practice. When the students ask questions or give comments in L1, don’t respond unless you have designated that it is time for clarifying questions in L1. This may be hard to do, but they will find a way to reword their question in L2 to get you to respond.
- Provide students with vocab they need for activity. For example, prior to playing Bingo, have a brainstorming session for L2 phrases during game play. Write these ideas on the board and keep them there all game long. Brainstorm words for when they are happy or upset: ¡No es posible! ¡Necesito uno más! ¡Ay caramba!
- Participation Rubrics hold them accountable with a grade. The more L1 they speak, the lower the grade. You can purchase my participation rubric here.
- Most importantly, stay consistent. Don’t let them speak L1 and get away with it or it will just snowball effect from there. They will continue to do so if there are no consequences. It may be a struggle, but the benefits for the students far outweigh the struggle it may be.
Let me know how these strategies work for you or what other tips are successful in your classroom!
