Annual Conference 2020 – ONLINE
October 17–24, 2020
Scroll down to view the complete schedule and program!
Scholarship Deadline Extended – Apply Today!
Sally Barnes, 2020 Chair
Croton-Harmon UFSD
Keynote speaker, Rebecca Aubrey, 2019 ACTFL National Language Teacher of the Year.
Rebecca Aubrey received her B.A. in Human Ecology from College of the Atlantic, M.A. in Political Science from the University of Connecticut, and a Teaching Certification through the Connecticut Alternate Route to Certification. She has over 20 years of teaching experience at the college level, and 10 years of experience teaching Spanish in grades K-8. Rebecca has presented broadly in Connecticut and at the national level, including two ACTFL presentations. She is the 2019 ACTFL Teacher of the Year. Rebecca is passionate about exploring the cultural and linguistic diversity of our world, and equally passionate about empowering students to do the same.
Special Notes Regarding Registration
- This year’s Annual Conference will be 100% online. While we’re sad we’ll miss seeing everyone live, we’re excited to use this new format to reach out to even more attendees around the state!
- The full conference is spread over eight days, with several live and pre-recorded sessions per day, all eligible for CTLE credit (you’ll submit one form when you have finished viewing all sessions that you are claiming).
- Pre-conference workshops are two hours in length and are offered live only.
- All sessions listed are one hour in length and all will be recorded and available through November 30.
- Twenty of our sessions will be presented in live Zoom or webinar format and will be recorded for asynchronous access later.
- An additional twenty-one sessions will be pre-recorded for asynchronous access and will be released, 3–4 per day, throughout the week.
- Registration is tiered, in increments of five hours. You may select a minimum of five, up to ten, or up to 15 hours (pre-conference workshops separate).
- Please read through the entire listing below – when you register, you will be asked to select the workshops and sessions you want on your registration form. You may use the worksheet provided to help you select and add up your hours.
- If you’re not able to attend at the scheduled time, no worries! After each live session, you will also receive a YouTube link to the recording. You can watch it on your own and still earn CTLE credit.
- Plan to visit our virtual exhibit hall – details on how to access and navigate it will be sent out to attendees in advance.
- Questions about how this will work? Send us an email and we can help you out!
Conference Schedule Overview
| Saturday, Oct. 17 | Live-streamed Pre-conference Workshops | 9–11 a.m. & 1–3 p.m. |
| Mon-Thurs, Oct. 19–22 | Concurrent, live-streamed 1-hour sessions | 4:00 & 5:30 p.m. |
| Friday, Oct. 23 | Exhibits | 4:00–6:00 p.m. |
| Awards and Reception | 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. | |
| Saturday, Oct, 24 | Exhibits | 8:00–9:00 a.m. |
| General Session & Keynote | 9:00–10:00 a.m. | |
| OBEWL Update | 10:30–11:30 a.m. | |
| OBEWL Panel Discussion | 12:30–1:30 p.m. | |
| Concurrent, live-streamed 1-hour sessions | 2:00 & 3:30 p.m. |
Conference Program
Pre-conference workshops ($25):
This day sponsored by:
1. Understanding the new New York State World Language Standards (2020): An Introduction
Saturday, October 17, 09:00–11:00 a.m.
Presenter(s): Bill Heller, SUNY Geneseo
Joanne O’Toole, Ph.D., SUNY Oswego
In this workshop colleagues will have opportunities to examine, interact with and reflect upon the new NYS World Language Standards. Participants will dissect the new standards by standard, communication mode, and checkpoint; identify implications for instructional practice; and explore practical strategies that promote communicative proficiency in a cultural context to bring the standards to life. This workshop assumes no prior knowledge and is appropriate for teachers at all levels of language teaching.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Curriculum
Levels: All Levels
2. Sneak Reading
Saturday, October 17, 09:00–11:00 a.m.
Presenter(s): Mary Holmes, New Paltz Central School
Reading is a powerful language acquisition tool, but kids often say they hate to read. So, what do you do? In this workshop the presenter will show a variety of fun, active games that require reading to compete. The kids are having so much fun, they don’t even realize how much reading they are actually doing!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Literacy
Levels: All Levels
3. Sustaining a Culturally Responsive Classroom
Saturday, October 17, 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Diana Clark Perez, Syracuse City School District
Ingrid Hatt, Auburn Enlarged City School District
Cultural intolerance, racism, and biases can show up in our schools, communities, and daily lives. To challenge and address this, teachers must develop skills in creating classrooms that are culturally responsive and sustaining. In this session, participants will explore the contexts, terminologies, and their own personal experiences in order to address their biases and their impact on students. The session will allow for opportunities to dialogue and create an initial action plan.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Diversity/Learner Variables
Levels: All Levels
4. Designing Effective Units Under the New World Language Standards
Saturday, October 17, 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Candace Black, NYSED – OBEWL
With new standards, teachers will be charged with revising their unit plans and curriculum maps. Get a jump-start by exploring how to design effective units of instruction, including examining the difference between performance and proficiency, unpacking the major levels of proficiency, and discussing high-leverage teaching practices that will engage our learners in meaningful, real-world tasks. Then get ready to work backward design into a unit of instruction. We’ll identify goals, determine acceptable evidence, and then plan instruction. A number of interactive, small group activities will be conducted to brainstorm and discuss ideas. Participants will be asked to post their unit plans so that all will walk away with many plans.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Curriculum
Levels: Middle/Junior, Post-Secondary
Live-streamed Concurrent Sessions:
5. The Standards Presenting an Opportunity to Better Develop Alignment Across the Levels
Monday, October 19, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Marisol Marcin, Ph.D., Binghamton University
Post-secondary school is slowly aligning with the new approaches to world language teaching, but we still have a deep attachment to teaching about the language and assessing linguistic competence through the lens of grammar. This session addresses the development of courses and units at different levels to promote a more culture-oriented and communicative classroom and encourage language learning beyond the requirements. We will also share best practices for world language teaching with a focus on culture and communication.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English and Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Curriculum
Levels: Post-Secondary, Secondary
6. Building a Community with One Classroom Mindset
Monday, October 19, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Brenda Buckley, PSLA@Fowler High School
Do you know what your “classroom mindset” is? In this interactive session, participants will identify their “classroom mindset,” as well as learn how to build a community by participating in different strategies that will help build their students confidence and increase student engagement on a regular basis.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Personalized Learning
Levels: All Levels
7. Updating Your Assessments with Proficiency Rubrics
Monday, October 19, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Erica Stark, North Syracuse Central School District
With the New York State World Language Standards being revised, it’s time to reexamine not only how we teach, but how we assess our students. I will share with you how I updated my old tests, quizzes, and projects to more accurately assess proficiency using ACTFL rubrics. This approach will make grading and feedback more efficient throughout the year, and better prepare your students for their end of the year exams.
Language of presentation: English and Spanish
Examples in: English and Spanish and French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary
8. These Are a Few of My Favorite Things: World Language Style
Monday, October 19, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Erin Johnson, Penn Yan Academy
Everyone has their favorite tools, lessons and units that they look forward to using and teaching each year. In this session the presenter will share ten of her favorites with explanations, examples and materials for you to be able to turn them into some of your favorites too! Some of the favorites include Tour Creator, a mini unit on The Voice, Fabrice Monteiro’s photography and so much more!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English and French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Instructional Materials/Textbook
Levels: Secondary, Middle/Junior
9. Embedded Formative Assessments as a Tool for Grading with Equity
Tuesday, October 20, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Christy Frembes Boise, Coney Island Prep High School
Ever feel conflicted and constrained by traditional grading practices? Do your grading practices sometimes assess behavior more than academic progress? Formative evaluation to provide feedback and correctives at each stage of the learning process have been proven to be the most effective way to boost student achievement. Come learn what grading for equity means, what embedded formative assessments are, and how to use them to push student learning to the next level. You will leave this session with a packet of formative assessment strategies to begin using Monday.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: All Levels
10. Global Culture in the World Language Classroom (Exhibitor)
Tuesday, October 20, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Liz Sacco, Vista Higher Learning
In this session learn how to nurture global citizenship in students by developing activities and objectives based on authentic cultural issues. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals provide the framework to guide planning. Create lessons that engage students with real world themes and learn how to develop proficiency by training students on problem solving with a focus on global issues. Explore cultural perspectives and practices, discuss connections and integrate to other subject areas.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Cultural and/or Community Connections
Levels: All Levels
11. 90% at All Levels
Tuesday, October 20, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Melanie Thomas, Spencerport CSD
90% is now industry-standard. That can seem like a daunting task, but it is doable and enjoyable once you get started. Language must be authentic and comprehensible. How do we engage students and create an environment that encourages language acquisition? Don’t reinvent the wheel … I’ve got some tips to share!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: All Levels, Middle/Junior, Secondary
12. The Writing Revolution: Evidence Based Strategies for Language Teachers
Tuesday, October 20, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Amy Pento, Liverpool High School
Do you know good writing when you see it but aren’t sure how to break things down to help all students improve? Are you willing to incorporate more writing into your classes but don’t know where to start? The Writing Revolution is a set of specific writing strategies that teachers use in all subjects, in every grade, enabling students to master the skills that are essential if they are to become competent writers. In turn, those skills equip students to become better readers, to communicate more effectively in writing and speaking, and most importantly, to elevate their thinking. I will share some of my favorite techniques that are immediately adaptable to all courses, from beginner-level through AP and college.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English and Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: All Levels
13. Teaching Culture in the Target Language
Wednesday, October 21, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Joanne O’Toole, Ph.D., SUNY Oswego
“Learners use the (target) language to…” are the words that introduce the culture standards at both the national and state levels. These words not only define what learners need to be able to do but also how teachers design their instruction. In this session, participants will learn what using the target language to enact culture standards can look like using each of the three modes of communication. Participants will also explore strategies across proficiency levels to promote learners’ use of the target language while addressing the culture standards.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English and Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: All Levels
14. Inspiring Proficiency in Novice Learners
Wednesday, October 21, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Pamela Russell, North Syracuse CSD
We often teach the way we were taught, which is not always effective with our students today. It’s time to ditch the textbooks, crossword puzzles, rows of desks and packets to focus on designing lessons and creating an environment for our students to strengthen their ability to become proficient and communicate. In this session, I will address how I have created that with my students through expectations, #authres, the workshop model, readers and more. I will also share the numerous resources that I have successfully adapted to my practice so that you can begin to incorporate them into yours!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary
15. Understanding a Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Classroom
Wednesday, October 21, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Diana Clark Perez, Syracuse City School District
Ingrid Hatt, Auburn Enlarged School District
Cultural intolerance, racism, and biases can show up in our schools, communities, and daily lives. To challenge and address this, teachers must develop skills in creating classrooms that are culturally responsive and sustaining. In this session, participants will learn about the contexts and terminologies of bias and the impact on their students. Participants will leave with strategies to address issues presented.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Diversity/Learner Variables
Levels: All Levels
16. Nuts and Bolts of Using Novels in Class (Exhibitor)
Wednesday, October 21, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Jennifer Degenhardt, Puentes LLC
Theresa Marrama, Madrid-Waddington Central School District
Not really sure how to start your students on a novel? No stress! Join Theresa Marrama and Jen Degenhardt as they talk about how they use both the novels they write and other great novels in their classes, 7th grade to college level! These two authors will share tips and tricks for FVR/FCR (Free Voluntary/Choice Reading) and using novels as the basis for curriculum. Jen and Terri will also share how to access different novels digitally to ease your stress during this inconvenient pandemic!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Secondary, Post-Secondary, Middle/Junior
17. Mindfulness for More Productivity in the World Language Classroom
Thursday, October 22, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Jennifer Schwester, Brick Township Public Schools & jennyzenyoga, LLC
Attendees will be provided with opportunities to practice different mindfulness skills and techniques that can be used personally or with their students. This is an active session, so attendees will experience first-hand what they can do and how the different activities feel. Attendees will learn skills that they can provide to their students at each proficiency level. Mindfulness is a positive tool that we can use as educators and share with our students to encourage them to use to help deal with stress, be aware of their own emotions, and help with self-esteem and self-regulation.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Personalized Learning
Levels: All Levels
18. Eight Best Practices to Take the Plunge into Proficiency
Thursday, October 22, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Deborah Espitia, Howard County Public Schools, retired
Just starting to dip your toes in the proficiency pool? Come learn more about eight ACTFL-aligned best practices for teaching for proficiency and how to start incorporating them into your practice: authentic resources, grammar in context, can-do statements, performance assessments, and more!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: French or Spanish
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary
19. Advocating for Our Students: Establishing the Seal of Biliteracy
Thursday, October 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Alexis Thornton, Putnam Valley High School
What exactly is the process required to offer the Seal of Biliteracy in a district? In this session, the presenter will lead attendees through the steps she took to set up the necessary committee and put into place the Seal of Biliteracy at her high school for the first time. Learn what you need to do, step by step, to implement the NYS SoB in your district. This project was undertaken as part of the presenter’s participation in the NYSAFLT Leaders of Tomorrow program.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: Secondary
20. Stories, Robots and Coding
Thursday, October 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Natalia Malone-Hernandez, The Dalton School
What does 21st century storytelling look like? A compelling story. Unique challenges. Working together to find multiple ways to solve them. Does this sound familiar? See how the user-friendly robot named Cubetto has inspired first-graders to solve problems together while simultaneously learning the basics of coding in Spanish! It adds a visual-kinesthetic element to stories that engages all learners. Experience Cubetto firsthand and collaborate with others to discuss further applications of storytelling and coding, including some low-tech alternatives.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Technology
Levels: All Levels
Exhibits
Friday, October 23, 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Please join us in our virtual exhibit hall where you’ll be able to visit our vendors! Each vendor will have set up their own Zoom (or similar) meeting. We’ll send all registered attendees a link to our virtual hall where you’ll find links to each exhibitor’s meeting. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity!
Awards Ceremony and Reception
Friday, October 23, 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Please join us as we recognize our 2020 award winners! Please select this option on the regisration form if you would like to attend. Following the ceremony we’ll stay on for a toast and some good cheer.
Exhibits
Saturday, October 24, 08:00–9:00 a.m.
Please join us in our virtual exhibit hall where you’ll be able to visit our vendors! Each vendor will have set up their own Zoom (or similar) meeting. We’ll send all registered attendees a link to our virtual hall where you’ll find links to each exhibitor’s meeting. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity!
21. General Session and Keynote
Saturday, October 24, 09:00–10:00 a.m.
This day sponsored by:
Please join us for our general session where we’ll conduct our Annual Business Meeting and hear our keynote speaker, Rebecca Aubrey, 2019 ACFTFL National Language Teacher of the Year.
Rebecca Aubrey received her B.A. in Human Ecology from College of the Atlantic, M.A. in Political Science from the University of Connecticut, and a Teaching Certification through the Connecticut Alternate Route to Certification. She has over 20 years of teaching experience at the college level, and 10 years of experience teaching Spanish in grades K-8. Rebecca has presented broadly in Connecticut and at the national level, including two ACTFL presentations. She is the 2019 ACTFL Teacher of the Year. Rebecca is passionate about exploring the cultural and linguistic diversity of our world, and equally passionate about empowering students to do the same.
22. NYSED-OBEWL Update
Saturday, October 24, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Presenter(s): Candace Black, NYSED-OBEWL
Please join us for this important update given by Candace Black, Director of World Languages, NYSED OBEWL. After many years, the New York State Standards for World Languages (LOTE) have been revised. Come learn first-hand what the changes are and how your curriculum, instruction and assessment will be affected.
23. OBEWL WL Content Advisory Panel Discussion
Saturday, October 24, 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Candace Black, NYSED-OBEWL
Joanne O’Toole, Ph.D., SUNY Oswego
Bill Heller, SUNY Geneseo
Lori Langer de Ramirez, The Dalton School
In this panel discussion the executive team of the NYSED OBEWL Content Advisory Panel for World Languages will will open the floor to questions from attendees.
24. Getting Them Talking: Engaging and Empowering Novice Learners
Saturday, October 24, 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Rebecca Aubrey, Timothy Edwards Middle School
How can we get novice learners exchanging information in the target language when they have limited language to draw on? Maintaining a 90%+ target language environment is challenging with novice learners, particularly as their affective filter increases. In this session, participants will learn strategies for scaffolding learning to promote target language use, as well as explore specific activities to promote interpersonal speaking and build circumlocution skills with novice language learners.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: FLES, Middle/Junior, Secondary
25. Mystery! An Engaging Unit for Upper Levels
Saturday, October 24, 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Presenter(s): Janis Labroo, Oneonta Senior High School
Are you looking to create a unit that is culturally rich, captivating, and that challenges students in upper levels? A mystery unit just might be the solution! The presenter will share tried and true ideas that expose students to culture, expand their vocabulary and help them ‘decipher’ grammar. If you suspect a unit using the past tense and object pronouns, your hunch is right! Attendees will participate in activities using all three modes. A short discussion on how to personalize and embellish the unit will conclude the session. Engagement guaranteed!
Language of presentation: English and French
Examples in: French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Secondary, Post-Secondary
26. Authentic Materials to Assess 21st Century Students’ Communication Skills
Saturday, October 24, 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Norka Delgado Fuller, Floral Park Memorial
In this session, participants will learn how to create lessons to assess their students’ skills through Higher Order Thinking interpretive questions, engaging interpersonal tasks and presentational ‘read to write’ activities based on authentic resources. There will be a specific focus on activities that develop students’ communicative proficiency. Participants will have hands-on opportunities to create elements of an Integrated Performance Assessment (IPA) based on authentic materials. We will discuss how to adapt the activities to your curriculum and differentiate them to your students’ level.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary
27. Everyday Advocacy: Developing an Advocacy Plan for Your Daily Routine
Saturday, October 24, 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Presenter(s): Anna Cartwright, Orchard Park High School
As language teachers, we often find ourselves struggling to attract students to our program as they build their schedules for the following year. But if we built advocacy techniques into our regular routines, would we have to fight as hard for their attention? In this session, we will examine a framework for setting advocacy goals for ourselves, for our department, and for our school. We will explore ways to inform students and parents of opportunities to practice language skills in our communities. Suggestions will also be provided about how to reach out to administrators, politicians and other influencers about the importance of multilingualism in our world.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English and French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Advocacy and Leadership
Levels: All Levels
Pre-recorded Asynchronous Sessions:
51. Fearless Story Asking with One Word Images
Release date: Monday, October 19, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Michael Ashley, Vernon-Verona-Sherrill High School
Interested in creating a One Word Image (OWI) with your students, but intimidated by the process? Or maybe you tried story asking before and it just never worked out for you? I will walk you through a fun and interactive process I use with my students to create a detailed story with all sorts of twists and turns, all from just one word. I will also show ways in which I assess for comprehension, as well as how I norm the class and manage behavior during the process.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Secondary
52. Implementing Performance Tasks in the FLES Classroom
Release date: Monday, October 19, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Flor Berman, St. David’s School
Learn how to enhance, empower and celebrate students’ language learning through the use of performance assessment tasks. The presenter will showcase different models of these assessments for the FLES classroom. Participants will learn how to implement tasks using the principles of integrated performance assessments. Authentic resources appropriate for elementary students will be showcased.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: FLES
53. FLES: F Stands for Fun
Release date: Monday, October 19, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Xianxian Cascella, North Shore Schools
David Schultz, North Shore Schools
NYSAFLT 2019 Sally G. Hahn Outstanding FLES program award-winning instructors will share a variety of engaging activities and ideas for boosting elementary school-aged language learners’ motivation and target language use. Facilitators will guide attendees in designing and implementing creative activities that utilize movement, props, music, games, and interpersonal interaction. We will use multimedia, music, instruction demo, hands-on activities and interaction to facilitate a professional learning experience to help you go beyond traditional instruction norms and achieve 90% target language instruction. Together we will go beyond traditional education paradigms in the FLES classroom!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Chinese
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: FLES
Levels: FLES
54. Making Your World Language Program Pop, Rattle and Roll
Release date: Monday, October 19, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Gerardo Cummings, Ph.D., Onondaga Community College
Elizabeth Juarez-Cummings, Syracuse University
In this presentation the presenter will introduce facts and strategies regarding trends in academia, such as reducing language offerings and eliminating programs. The presentation will be divided into different sections, and one of them will be dedicated to sharing ideas that will hopefully inspire attendees to implement changes in the ways they engage with their students. Some of the ideas that will be shared involve offering students opportunities to engage in their community via a service component, asking the students to research and discuss cultural articles, and designing courses that students find valuable. Presenters will draw from their close to fifty years’ experience in education.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Post-Secondary
55. Get in the Right Frame of ‘Mindset’ to Teach Grammar Inductively
Release date: Tuesday, October 20, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Deborah Espitia, Howard County Public Schools, retired
Change the way you think, and you’ll change the way you teach. A growth mindset is essential in the shift to teaching grammar inductively. After a discussion about growth mindset, there will be a demo of an inductive grammar lesson before discussing steps to create these types of grammar lessons for your own classes.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary
56. Making Room for Change: Instruction at The Forefront of the 21st Century
Release date: Tuesday, October 20, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Kimberley Harter, Mexico High School
The pedagogy of world language is rapidly changing, and with the implementation of the revised NYS Standards, there will be an increased emphasis on proficiency, the use of authentic materials, and the integration of technology. How does the veteran teacher move from traditional methodologies of teaching the functions in their separate entities to more modern instructional practices of teaching the modes of communication? During this session, teachers will explore the transition from conventional methodologies to current applications, including a focus on blended learning, comprehensible input, and differentiated instruction.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary
57. Engaging Students Through Questioning in the Foreign Language Classroom
Release date: Tuesday, October 20, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Andrea Hernandez Gallegos, New Visions Charter High School Advanced Math and Science III
Shawn Martin, New Visions Charter High School Advanced Math and Science III
Questioning techniques in a world language classroom have multiple benefits, such as promoting peer cooperation, having students engaged when asking questions, and having class and group discussions in the target language. Teaching students how to ask questions using the interpretive, interpersonal and presentational modes can help keep them engaged in learning while staying in the target language. By asking questions, students are able to express themselves and take risks they would not normally take in a teacher-centered classroom.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary
58. Let’s Get Writing: Have Your Students Write More While You Correct Less
Release date: Tuesday, October 20, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Erin Johnson, Penn Yan Academy
Do your students struggle with writing in the target language? Do you get tired of marking up students’ writing with all kinds of editing marks just to have them not make any corrections? So did I! That’s why I came up with a way for my students to write every week with minimal correcting for me! Come learn about the writing process that has become a habit in my classes and how it has improved my students overall writing ability.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: Secondary, Middle/Junior,
59. Virtual Reality as a Tool in Teacher Education
Release date: Wednesday, October 21, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Erin Kearney, Ph.D., University at Buffalo
Kristen D’Alessandro-Mullen, University at Buffalo
Virtual reality offers new opportunities for teacher educators to design experiences for teacher candidates in world language education programs. This session explains the rationale for using virtual reality in teacher education, shares examples from SUNY programs where the technology is being integrated, and provides opportunities for participants both to try out and discuss this technological tool to explore its affordances and potential challenges. A set of 15 headsets with virtual reality segments will be available for participants to try in the session.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Technology
Levels: Post-Secondary
60. The edTPA in World Languages: Information, Experiences and Discussion
Release date: Wednesday, October 21, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Erin Kearney, Ph.D., University at Buffalo
Cristina Mata, Hutch Tech High School
Sarah Bradley, Nardin Academy
Michael Nusbaum, Mott Hall Charter School
Organized in stations, we will present (1) information on what the edTPA is and how it functions as a part of teacher certification in NYS, (2) stories of recent experience with taking the edTPA and (3) opportunities to examine sample tasks and rubrics to gain a better understanding of what is involved in the world languages edTPA. Whether you are a teacher candidate soon to take the edTPA, a classroom teacher who is curious about hosting or who will soon host a student teacher, or a methods instructor seeking to learn more about the process, this session will provide perspectives from the presenters’ multiple vantage points and experiences and many opportunities to gather information, engage with others and ask questions.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: French, Spanish, Chinese
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Issues in the Profession
Levels: All Levels
61. Pedagogical Options in Our Toolkit to “Make Peace” with Google Translate
Release date: Wednesday, October 21, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): R. J. S. Malabanan, School of Education, Syracuse University
In this teacher-inquiry session the presenter will aim to better understand how our “digital native” students use machine translators (MT) such as Google Translate and what metacognitive learning needs are met through their use of the online platform. Given how MTs have improved, it’s time we take their potential seriously as a “game changer” for our content area. In this session we will explore how MT can enhance all L2 students’ experience with a growth mindset and provide a space to brainstorm how we can ‘make peace’ with MT through mindfully-designed L2 tasks. Sample activities aligned with ACTFL’s World Readiness Standards for interpersonal and intercultural communication will be shared.
Language of presentation: English and Spanish
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: All Levels
62. Helping Teachers Adopt Active Learning Practices
Release date: Wednesday, October 21, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Yukako Otsuki, University at Buffalo, SUNY
Chihiro Heckman, Ph.D., University at Buffalo
We will present about our teacher education program for Active Learning (AL) lessons in a Japanese weekend school in the US. Results of observations of each teacher’s lesson plan presentations and their lessons, and after program survey show that teachers need a longer-term support in providing practical knowledge and skills so that they can internalize AL lessons and acquire class management skills. We will discuss how school administrators can support non-professional novice teachers to encourage students’ self-exploring types of learning like AL as well as some strategies teachers can implement on their own.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English and Japanese
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Heritage Language Instruction
Levels: FLES, Middle/Junior
63. Fun Activities in the Proficiency-Based Elementary Classroom
Release date: Thursday, October 22, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Kenya Paterra, Dobbs Ferry School District
Shelby Marchese, Scarsdale School District
Are you tired of doing the same activities in your classroom? Looking for some ideas to refresh your lessons? Do you want to bring more fun into your classroom? During this session, the presenters will share various activities and games that engage their elementary world language students, including information-gap interpersonal activities, circumlocution games, friendly competition during interpretive listening activities, and many more!
Language of presentation: English and Spanish
Examples in: English and Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: FLES, Middle/Junior
64. Imag(in)E!
Release date: Thursday, October 22, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Francoise Piron, South Jefferson CSD
Joy Cumming, South Jefferson CSD
Our students are bombarded by images in their daily lives, and so are we. How about harnessing the power of the visuals and using images and videos purposefully, as a means to work within all 3 modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive and presentational? How about infusing culture into everyday lessons with images from a variety of sources? In this session, we will share many ideas and techniques to make lessons relevant, interesting, humorous and/or powerful. Join us as we play “le téléphone en images”, design French memes, interpret headlines, bring concepts to life with play dough, read and create francophone comic strips, and act out stories from African picture books. All that while capturing the power of the image!
Language of presentation: French
Examples in: French
Applicable to: French
Keyword: Cultural and/or Community Connections
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary,
65. High School-College Connection: Meeting Checkpoint C Through Translation
Release date: Thursday, October 22, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Graziela Rondon-Pari, Ph.D., Buffalo State College
James Lyons, Lancaster High School
Mark Warford, Buffalo State College
In the last few years, educators have realized the need to offer students language classes that enable them to be competitive in the global market. With that thought, schools started to focus on the teaching of languages for the professions, with a popular field being interpreting and translation. Based on a proficiency-oriented instruction approach, the preparation of translators and interpreters should start from high school and include the avoidance of false cognates and awareness of language variation. This presentation exemplifies the high school-college connection in Spanish for the professions while meeting world languages Checkpoint C through translation and interpreting.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Spanish
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Post-Secondary, Secondary
66. SEL (Social Emotional Learning) in the World Language Classroom
Release date: Friday, October 23, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Jennifer Schwester, Brick Township High School; jennyzenyoga@gmail.com
Attendees will participate in SEL activities and share ways to use them in the classroom. Attendees will learn skills that they can provide to their students at every proficiency level. By encouraging students to use the target language, we are also helping them to be aware of their own emotions, self-esteem and self-regulation. When students are able to acknowledge their emotions and have the tools to deal with them, they are being provided with a safe space in which they can lower their affective-filter and be even more receptive to learning and participation.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Personalized Learning
Levels: All Levels
67. World Language Advocacy: Looking to the Future
Release date: Friday, October 23, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Kathleen Stein-Smith, Ph.D., Fairleigh Dickinson University, Metropolitan Campus
With the numbers of world language programs declining and the opportunity to learn another language decreasing, advocacy is more necessary than ever before. Effective advocacy requires both many voices and a strategic, intentional approach, with preparation and training of teachers at all levels as advocates essential throughout our careers. Beginning in teacher education, and continuing through mentoring and informal channels, as well as through our professional associations, communicating the benefits of language learning and use to our local communities and a part of the public conversation can be done on an ongoing basis by individual language educators and in support of our state, regional, and national campaigns.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Advocacy and Leadership
Levels: All Levels
68. Circumlocution Strategies
Release date: Friday, October 23, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Kaleigh Thomas, Carmel High School
Michael Lauria, Carmel High School
How many of our students lack the confidence to speak or write because they just “don’t know the words?” What can we do to help build their confidence? In this session, we will discuss and provide examples that demonstrate why circumlocution is such a crucial skill in language acquisition. We will include several sample activities that we’ve collected over the years that teachers can start using in their very next class!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English, French and Spanish
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: All Levels
69. Getting Published in the Language Association Journal
Release date: Friday, October 23, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Mary Caitlin Wight, Ph.D., Language Association Journal Editor
The holidays are fast approaching for 2020 and it is time for you to be able to share with your family that this was the year you became a published author! NYSAFLT’s premier journal welcomes a range of topics, including but not limited to teacher to teacher articles, scholarly research, and reports. Join the Language Association Journal editor for this session in order to add ‘published author’ to your résumé!
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Advocacy and Leadership
Levels: All Levels
70. The On-Line Culture Course: A Gateway Program
Release date: Saturday, October 24, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Adelia Williams, Ph.D., Pace University
Geraldine O’Neill, Pace University
In today’s second-language programs, teachers strive to help their students gain proficiency in language and also understanding of the cultures of the speakers of that language. However, there is a large population of students who do not study a second language. In an effort to reach them, Pace University has developed a variety of ‘culture courses’ taught in English, in both online and face-to-face settings. The presenters will review syllabi, showing how each is designed to highlight important aspects of French and Francophone culture. They will also address the challenges of the online format and will work with the audience to develop a culture course in the language and educational setting in which each participant works.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: French
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Cultural and/or Community Connections
Levels: Post-Secondary, Secondary, Middle/Junior
71. Design Articulated Three Mode Lessons for Different Learners
Release date: Saturday, October 24, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Lingling Xie, North Shore & Herricks High School
SooJin Choi Kim, Democracy Prep Harlem High School
This session aims to integrate the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) concept or “backward design” into the unit plan and lesson with the three communicative mode tasks. The session will demonstrate how to use culturally authentic materials to design articulated assessment transfer and IPA tasks. Participants will learn how to align world language teaching strategies with the modes of communication to design effective lessons. Presenters will address tailoring the lesson for learners of different proficiency levels and will share their experience and research in finding strategies to teach learners with learning differences in an inclusive classroom.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: English, Chinese and Korean
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Secondary, Middle/Junior, FLES
72. National Spanish Examinations: Contests and Assessments
Saturday, October 24, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Salvatore Muffoletto, National Spanish Examinations
This session will focus on the content, administration and prizes available from the National Spanish Exam (NSE) contest and the new motivational contest for 1-6 Spanish students, the National Spanish Challenge (NSC). Each year NSE awards over $200,000 to students who participate in the NSE contest, and participants will find out how to apply for these scholarships, study abroad opportunities and awards. This session will (1) provide teachers with authentic level-appropriate materials, (2) help teachers challenge students to build proficiency, (3) provide feedback by identifying what students know and are able to do with the language, and (4) help teachers to inspire students to motivated language learners.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Spanish
Applicable to: Spanish
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: Secondary, Middle/Junior, FLES
73. Confidence, Feedback, and Student Progress in Oral Assessments (Exhibitor)
Saturday, October 24, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Thomas Murr, Extempore App
Grant Castner, Extempore App
Sam Slagle, Extempore App
In this webinar, find out how you can use Extempore to instill confidence in your students to speak naturally and gain proficiency in the TL. As both achieving spontaneous output from students and assessing oral communication become increasingly difficult, find out how you can use Extempore to create high-quality asynchronous assessments, give students precise feedback, and meet proficiency goals in the WL classroom.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Assessment and Feedback
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary
74. Focus on Proficiency: Planning with Can-Do Statements (ACTFL)
Saturday, October 24, Pre-recorded
Presenter(s): Paul Sandrock, ACTFL
Jessica Haxhi, New Haven Public Schools (CT) and ACTFL President-Elect
How can we develop and assess language proficiency to support learners to reach their goals? Proficiency is “independent use of language” and the NCSSFL-ACTFL Can-Do Statements provide a clear blueprint of the building blocks needed to move along the proficiency continuum. Empower learners by focusing on what they can do with what they learn. Outcomes: Participants will unpack the Can-Do Statements to identify what to focus on in order to guide learners to higher levels of proficiency and will analyze and reflect on the implications of Can-Do learning for planning effective instruction and assessment.
Language of presentation: English
Examples in: Several
Applicable to: Any
Keyword: Methods/Instructional Techniques
Levels: Middle/Junior, Secondary, Post-Secondary