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TitleCharacteristics of Human Language
SourceCASLS
Body

This activity focuses on the characteristics of human language and was created for learners of all proficiency levels. It should be delivered in the first language at the lower proficiency levels in order to facilitate deep thinking.

Learning Outcomes:
Learners will be able to:

  • Identify and summarize the characteristics of human language  
  • Create examples of the characteristics of human language

Mode(s): Interpretive, Presentational

Materials: characteristics of human language Video, characteristics of human language handout, characteristics of human language examples, and characteristics of human language fill-in template

Procedure: 

  1. Ask learners to read each definition on the first page of the characteristics of human language handout and try to predict which of the terms on the second page corresponds with each definition. 
  2. Next, ask learners to verify their predictions with the characteristics of human language video
  3. After watching the video, in pairs or groups of three, give learners the first page of characteristics of human language examples.
  4. Ask the pairs or groups of students to label each of the pictures with one of the characteristics from Steps 1 and 2.
  5. Review answers as a class.
  6. Have learners return to groups and use the characteristics of human language fill-in template to create their own examples of each characteristic in practice.
  7. Debrief by having each group share their favorite example.

Notes:

  • The handouts have answers on the second page. Be aware before you print!
  • It is fine to complete this activity with only a few characteristics at a time over a series of class periods.
  • In completing Step 6, learners may wish to use magazines or another print medium (if doing this activity with pencil and paper) or pictures from the Internet (in doing this activity in the virtual classroom).
Publishdate2021-01-04 10:15:01