Language/Culture Websites
I worked with the language department to develop a new project this year. The teachers wanted a new way for students to study the culture related to the language. We decided to have the students create a website showcasing their chosen topic. In this example, I worked with French I, II, III, and IV to research specific aspects of French culture and then design and publish a website for it. This example shows evidence of 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e; my parts are highlighted under colored headings.
Lesson Plan
Google Presentation
Weebly for Education
Prior to the lesson, Ms. Snow, the French teacher, explained the assignment and students chose topics. They were allowed to work individually or in groups of two or three.
After the introduction, the French students spent five days in the library.
After their time in the library and as they completed their sites, Ms. Snow had the students use each others' websites to answer sets of questions.
Throughout the entire project,
As the project neared completion, Ms. Snow and I reflected on our teaching, and shared our thoughts with Mrs. Delany and Ms. Egli, who plan to conduct the project with their Spanish students in the near future.
Website Examples
Lesson Plan
Google Presentation
Weebly for Education
Prior to the lesson, Ms. Snow, the French teacher, explained the assignment and students chose topics. They were allowed to work individually or in groups of two or three.
- French I - French-speaking countries - assignment and rubric
- French II - French-speaking cities - assignment and rubric
- French III & IV - French castles - assignment and rubric
After the introduction, the French students spent five days in the library.
- I taught them what to consider when creating a website - design, usability, and content. This lesson also included information on finging and using public domain (copyright-free) images.
- Students were given log in credentials for Weebly for Education.
- I showed them how to start a new site and navigate within Weebly.
- While they worked independently on their sites, I was available to provide any necessary guidance and assistance.
After their time in the library and as they completed their sites, Ms. Snow had the students use each others' websites to answer sets of questions.
- French I - countries question packet
- French II - cities question packet
- French III & IV - castles question packet
Throughout the entire project,
- Ms. Snow and I communicated with the students about their project and progress. (3a)
- I used questioning and discussion techniques when delivering content on website creation. (3b)
- Students were engaged in learning - they chose their own topics and created their own website based on the message and audience they wanted to connect. (3c)
- Assessments informed instruction in the sense that any questions or moments of confusion led to the next steps. I adjusted any instruction necessary to meet the students' needs. Ms. Snow's final step (see below) also used the website to further students' understanding of French culture. (3d)
- As is true in every lesson I teach, I demonstrated flexibility and responsiveness. For example, the French classes were originally scheduled in the library for three days, but clearly needed more time, which they were given immediately. (3e)
As the project neared completion, Ms. Snow and I reflected on our teaching, and shared our thoughts with Mrs. Delany and Ms. Egli, who plan to conduct the project with their Spanish students in the near future.
Website Examples