Summer Language Learning: Proficiency in your Language Journey

As summer break approaches, it’s the perfect time for teachers to focus on their own language-learning journey. This language learning challenge is designed for teachers who want to enhance their proficiency in the language they teach. By dedicating time and effort during the summer, educators can not only improve their own language skills, but also bring a fresh perspective and enhanced teaching techniques to the classroom. So let’s dive into this exciting summer language learning challenge and embark on a journey of personal and professional growth!

Challenge Duration: 8 weeks (or however long you would like!)

Week 1: Set Clear Goals and Objectives

Reflect on your current language proficiency.
Set specific and realistic goals for the summer.
Identify the areas you want to improve, such as speaking, listening, reading, or writing.
Write down your goals and keep them visible throughout the challenge.

Week 2: Daily Vocabulary Building

Learn five new words or phrases each day.
Create flashcards or use language-learning apps to practice and reinforce vocabulary.
Challenge yourself to use the new words in daily conversations or writing exercises.

Week 3: Immersion through Media

Watch TV shows, movies, or documentaries in the language you teach (optionally with subtitles).
Listen to podcasts or audiobooks during a car ride or leisure time.
Engage with news articles or blogs in your desired language that are related to your interests.

Week 4: Speaking Practice

Find a language exchange partner or join a conversation group.
Practice speaking for at least 30 minutes every day.
Focus on fluency, pronunciation, and expressing your thoughts clearly.

Week 5: Reading Comprehension

Select a novel, short stories, or news articles to read.
Start with materials suitable for your language level and gradually challenge yourself.
Take notes, highlight new vocabulary, and summarize what you’ve read.

Week 6: Writing Exercises

Write journal entries in the language you’re practicing, describing your daily experiences or reflections.
Practice writing short stories, essays, or emails.
Seek feedback from a native speaker, another teacher, or a language tutor.

Week 7: Cultural Immersion

Dive deeper into the culture of a country that speaks your desired language by exploring its music, art, or cuisine.
Watch movies without subtitles to enhance your listening skills.
Research and learn about customs, traditions, and celebrations in specific countries that speak the language you are studying.

Week 8: Final Project and Reflection

Create a final project that demonstrates your progress and achievements. It could be a video presentation, a blog post, or a recorded conversation.
Reflect on your language-learning journey and assess how your proficiency has improved.
Celebrate your accomplishments and set new language learning goals for the upcoming school year by showing off your new skills to your students during back-to-school!

Participating in this summer language learning challenge will not only enhance your proficiency, but will also inspire you as an educator. By stepping out of your comfort zone and dedicating time to your own language learning, you’ll gain valuable insights into effective teaching strategies and be better equipped to engage and motivate your students. Embrace this challenge, make the most of your summer, and embark on an enriching journey of personal and professional growth! ¡Buena suerte! Bonne chance! Удачи! Buona fortuna! (Good luck!)

By Kishory Murray