David and I spoke about how he feels his Spanish has progressed throughout the first semester.
We discussed how we had finished the last semester focusing on the specifics of grammar, vocabulary, and conjugations. We used this opportunity to step back and look at the big picture of using this class to generate genuine communication.
David was asked to think of phrases that he wants to be able to say in Spanish.
He thought of different scenarios in which he may find himself. And, then he thought of what information he may need to access in those situations. We then generated a number of phrases based on each scenario.
Today, I reminded Kaitlin that she should start each class with her notes, books, and the like out and ready to go.
I led our review today and I did it in Spanish. Kaitlin will take back the responsibility for leading our reviews as we get back into the swing of class (next week at the latest).
Kaitlin asked me about the work that she still needs to hand in. We discussed that briefly so that she was clear on what needed to happen for her to receive credit.
Kaitlin and I then continued with her phrases translations. For some reason, she did not have all of the information that I gave her yesterday written in her notes. So, we corrected that.
We discussed processes that she can use for obtaining reliable and consistent results from technology when she is trying to get translations. We focused in on how to use technology to double check the translations that she was doing.
We pointed out vocabulary from the first part of the year that popped up in her translations.
We identified patterns and discussed them. We used them to preview upcoming topics.
Kaitlin and I started off the semester with something that is fun and helps us to focus on the big picture of learning Spanish. Kaitlin was asked to think of some things that she would like to be able to say in Spanish.
She came up with three great phrases! I added two phrases to her list. We spoke about using Spanish to learn Spanish. We started to translate the phrases.
We discussed the concept of circumlocution as I explained to her why some of the translations that I gave her would sound more native than just translating each word on its own.
Session Minutes
45
Minutes Student Attended
45
Lesson Comments
I had a medical call that I had to take during this session.
I had Kaitlin work on writing down her target sentences in English while I excused myself and answered the call that took less than 3 minutes.
