The Castro Code: Cultivating Fluency

Here are some activities to do with your students when you need a break or when they are just too tired. You can also use these as time fillers or as a bailout move when PQA or StoryAsking is not working (it happens to all of us!). These activities allow you to still provide Comprehensible…

Two Truths and One Wish” is a fresh twist on a classic icebreaker activity that helps language teachers connect with their students on a deeper level. This activity is easy to implement and requires no preparation. Simply hand out index cards and ask students to write three statements: two truths and one wish. You can…

I have heard this comment from many teachers, “Comprehensible Input (CI) is great for beginners, but it doesn’t work in upper-level classes.” The truth is, CI works at any level as long as the content is comprehensible and compelling. So, how do you implement Personalized Questions and Answers (PQA) with advanced students? The simple answer…

As we begin a new school year, our primary goal is to establish a solid foundation of mutual respect and classroom community. This is more than just a rule; it’s a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all of us. Getting to know our students and letting them know us and our…

It’s testing season! I don’t know about you, but my students are mentally and physically exhausted. AP and State tests can be overwhelming and exhausting for students. can increase stress levels the pressure to perform well can lead to anxiety and fatigue. Furthermore, the format of the tests, which may include long periods of sitting…

Calendar talk is one of my favorite classroom routines. Why is it a favorite, you ask? Well, let me spill the beans. Calendar talk isn’t just about dates and days; it’s a gateway to building deeper connections with your students while sneaking in some language learning. Here’s a peek into how I make Calendar Talk…

Original idea from Cecile Laine. My favorite SEL activity to connect with students. This a a super easy way to find out how students are feeling and how they feel about school. Download this collection of emojis and gifs to check in with your students.

Co-creating stories is one of my favorite low-prep activities. When we co-create stories with the class, students are actively engaged in the language-learning process. Instead of passively receiving information, they are involved in generating ideas, constructing sentences, and expressing themselves in the target language. Co-creating stories also fosters students’ creativity and imagination. Additionally, It creates…