by Christopher Daradics
Materials: “Exploration #1” + Ecological Model Handout
Preparation:
1) Have a look at our activity prompt, Exploration #1.
2) Find the Sample Activity Card on the Ecological Model sheet (upper right corner). This card highlights how Exploration #1 fits into the Ecological model.
Execution:
1) Do Exploration #1 with students in their L1—to minimize selective filtering based on language competency.
2) Students will work in pairs (or small groups) and take turns trying to figure out in the target language what entries are on each other’s lists.
Some options:
The students can take turns switching being “askers” and “answerers”.
The “askers” can use gesture, but the “answerers” cannot.
As helpful adjectives come up in conversation Ss can annotate their lists for future use.
Debrief of the activity can include a discussion of in/effective communicative strategies.
Extension:
Consider creating assignments that allow students to choose their own combinations of “Branching” and “Rooting” activities. If this is too open, restrict student options to create the outcomes you are interested in. If we are looking to increase agency, then it only makes sense to give students a sense of how they can more reflectively participate in the world, and in their own target language development.
| 