Well we made it to part 5 of the 5 part blog! Now that I’ve outlined the best ways to create and implement interpretive, presentational, and interpersonal tasks, how do we combine them?
My favorite and I think the best idea: Integrated Performance Assessments. It is a 3 part test based on an authentic prompt that assesses the students’ proficiency in all three modes. For details on how to implement this and for some already-made tests based on proficiency level and theme click here!
Let’s say you don’t have time for an IPA or you just aren’t quite ready to test them like this yet. Well, then it is ok to focus on one mode at a time, but keep in mind that regular, day-to-day communication is based off of the three modes. Here are some tips and tricks to combining all three modes without needing “assessments.”
Interpretive and Interpersonal: Watch a video or read a text, but do not ask comprehension questions. Give students discussion questions. You will not directly be testing their interpretive skills, but the speaking prompts should allow them to express understanding and reflection of the text.
Interpersonal & Presentational: Students can interview one another, which is a form of interpersonal communication, then they “present” their findings to the class.
Interpretive and Presentational: Students read an article, story, watch a movie, listen to a song, etc. and now write a review on it. Again, they are not being tested directly on how well they understand the text, but maybe have them cite evidence in their opinion-based writing.
The possibilities are endless. It is so easy to incorporate all three modes into one lesson. Don’t overwhelm yourself by grading everything. These are great practice tools. And remember, the grammar will come with more and more practice. The main goal here is: communication!
Share your ideas for combining modes of communication with us!
