Authentic Language

In both my Level 1 and Level 2 classes, I try and expose the students to as much authentic language as possible.  Specifically, I use activities which allow them to create with the language, in both spoken and written forms, and which appeal to their own self-absorption, i.e. talking about themselves.  I also try to give them opportunities to experience Spanish as it would be heard, read, and spoken by native speakers.

So today, I showed to my Spanish 2 students a video clip from Univision.  It is a segment from the program, “Despierta América”, which presents Chef Pepin preparing a smoked chicken salad.  Now, perhaps the ingredients used to prepare the salad - smoked chicken, melon, blueberries, jelly, yogurt and mayo - do not appeal to the typical adolescent palate.  Futhermore, I told the students that they would not be able to understand some of the segment.  However, as we are currently studying food vocabulary, there were key words I wanted them to pick out: melon, chicken, salad. The students were attentive during the four minute and thirty-four second segment. Additionally, many picked out the key words, and then some.

I think the next time, I will try and locate a fast food commercial from a Spanish speaking country.  The students will be able to relate more closely to it.