Spanish as a Foreign Language classes at HOLA, based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) with the communicative method, is an excellent way to teach and learn the language effectively and in context. Here is a detailed guide on how to structure these classes:
Each level has specific descriptors of what the student is capable of doing in terms of listening comprehension, reading comprehension, oral interaction, oral expression, and written expression.
At HOLA, we work with the Communicative Method, which focuses on the ability to communicate in real-life situations.
The fundamental principles of this method and our classes include:
- Focus on real communication: The goal is for students to use the language in authentic contexts.
- Use of communicative tasks: Activities and tasks that simulate real-life situations are used.
- Meaningful interaction: Interaction between students and the teacher is encouraged.
- Contextualization of language: Vocabulary and grammar are taught within a meaningful context.
- Development of the four skills: Listening comprehension, reading comprehension, oral expression, and written expression are integrated into the learning process.
Structure of a Class Based on the CEFR and the Communicative Method
- Warm-up
- Objective: Activate prior knowledge and prepare students for the lesson’s topic.
- Activities: Brief conversations, weekend questions, quick games, etc.
- Introduction of the Topic
- Objective: Present the lesson’s topic in a contextualized manner.
- Activities: Presentation of images, videos, real-life situations, etc.
- Language Presentation
- Objective: Introduce new vocabulary and grammatical structures.
- Activities: Readings, audio, dialogues, brief explanations, etc.
- Guided Practice
- Objective: Practice the new language in a controlled manner.
- Activities: Repetition exercises, completing dialogues, matching activities, etc.
- Communicative Practice
- Objective: Use the new language in more open and creative contexts.
- Activities: Role-plays, debates, interviews, simulations, role-playing games, etc.
- Free Production
- Objective: Allow students to use the language spontaneously and personally.
- Activities: Writing texts, presentations, group projects, etc.
- Closure and Feedback
- Objective: Summarize what has been learned and provide feedback.
- Activities: Lesson summary, comments on performance, assignment of homework, etc.
- Assessment
- Continuous assessment: Observations during activities, class notes.
- Formal assessment: Written and oral tests, projects, presentations.
- Self-assessment and peer assessment: Students reflect on their learning and that of their peers.
Materials and Resources
- School-specific materials: Carefully designed for each level, aligned with the CEFR and the communicative approach.
- Audiovisual resources: Videos, audio, interactive apps.
- Authentic materials: Newspaper articles, songs, advertisements, etc.
Cultural Activities
- Objective: Integrate culture into language learning.
- Activities: Celebrating holidays, food tastings, movie viewings, and inviting native speakers.
Adaptation to Specific Needs
- Personalized learning: Adapting activities and pacing according to students’ needs and levels.
- Inclusion of personal interests: Incorporating students’ interests to maintain motivation.
Implementing Spanish as a Foreign Language class based on the CEFR with the communicative method can be challenging, but with proper planning and the use of varied resources, students can develop effective communicative skills and enjoy the learning process.