Reflective Task: Boosting Confidence and Motivation in Speaking a Foreign Language in VYL

 

Objective:

To identify challenges and develop creative solutions for motivating preschool children to speak in a foreign language.

Task Description:

1. Challenge Identification:

   • Activity: 'The Challenge Tree'
     • Create a simple drawing or collage of a tree.
     • On the leaves, write down the challenges you've observed that prevent children from speaking in a foreign language (e.g., shyness, lack of interest, fear of making mistakes).

2. Solution Brainstorming:

   • Activity: 'Solution Blossoms'
     • For each 'Challenge Leaf,' think of a 'Solution Blossom.' Attach a flower (made from paper, fabric, or drawn) next to each leaf.
     • On each flower, write down a potential solution or strategy to overcome the corresponding challenge (e.g., games, songs, positive reinforcement).

3. Fun Implementation:

   • Activity: 'Try It Out!'
     • Pick one 'Solution Blossom' and implement it in your class.
     • Observe how the children respond and note any changes in their willingness to speak the foreign language.

4. Reflective Sharing:

   • Activity: 'Garden of Ideas'
     • Organize a short, informal meeting with fellow preschool teachers.
     • Share your 'Challenge Tree' and 'Solution Blossoms.' Discuss the outcomes of the 'Try It Out!' activity.
     • Encourage others to share their experiences and ideas, creating a 'Garden of Ideas.'

5. Personal Reflection:

   • Activity: 'Reflective Journal'
     • In a journal, reflect on this experience. Consider the following questions:
       • Which solutions seemed to work well, and which didn’t?
       • How did the children react to your approach?
       • What did you learn about encouraging language speaking in young learners?
       • How will this experience shape your future teaching practices?

Follow-Up:

Share your reflections and any new strategies you plan to implement in future classes with your teaching team.