The holiday season can be a challenging time for French language students. With so many distractions and competing priorities, it can be difficult to stay motivated and focused on language-learning goals. However, with a few simple tips and strategies, it is possible to keep students engaged and enthusiastic about their studies during the festive season.
1 - Integrating French Language Learning into Holiday Traditions: Ideas and Examples
Firstly, I personally like to embrace the holiday spirit and incorporate French language learning into French holiday traditions and celebrations. For example, students could learn French carols or holiday recipes, or practice conversing in French while discussing holiday plans with friends and family.
Below are some helpful resources available in my store:
Take a French Virtual Field Trip to Le Marché de Noël de Strasbourg with this engaging 25-page PowerPoint Presentation (ideal with a projector).
Check out this reading comprehension resource that provides three captivating stories about Christmas specifically tailored for beginners in French. Each story is carefully crafted to engage students and facilitate their language learning journey. In addition to the stories, the resource includes a variety of comprehension activities and worksheets that enhance reading comprehension skills.
Here is a fun winter/christmas activity! These speaking and writing task cards are suitable for French beginner and intermediate levels. They are the perfect way to use pictures to prompt authentic conversation and Frenchvocabulary development.Speaking in a new language can be very intimidating, but when you do it in a fun and engaging way, students will quickly begin to get over their fear and try to speak.
2 - Setting Achievable Language Learning Goals in French class for the Holiday Season
Another effective strategy is to set achievable goals for the holiday season and celebrate progress along the way. This could involve setting specific language-learning targets, such as mastering a new grammar concept or learning a certain number of new vocabulary words, and rewarding students for meeting these goals with small treats or prizes.
3 - Creating a Supportive and Inclusive Learning Environment.
Finally, it is important to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment, where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their progress with others. Encouraging students to work together in pairs or small groups can also help to build motivation and foster a sense of community.
I have the perfect resource for you!
“I chose this activity mainly because I am trying to give my students more opportunities to work in small groups. This fit perfectly. Thank you for putting this together!” Cory
These posters depicting well-known French monuments allow students to conduct research about the monument’s creation, what it’s famous for, and any other significant details about its appearance or use. Students then transfer this information onto their poster and use their creativity to bring these French monuments to life on poster paper.This project is available in English and French to allow students at all French language levels to participate.
By embracing the holiday season and incorporating French language learning into festive celebrations, setting achievable goals and celebrating progress, and creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment, it is possible to keep French language students motivated and engaged throughout the holiday season.