TICKETED PRE-CONFERENCE SESSION: Finding and using authentic resources for novice level students can be a challenge, as finding resources that are comprehensive to beginning learners can be a challenge. In this workshop, participants will learn several different methods for finding culturally diverse level-appropriate resources, including videos, songs, and written documents, and try out a variety of follow-up activities that can be used to exploit them in the classroom. Participants will also learn how to incorporate authentic resources into an independent exploration library for students to view and interact with outside of class. Material presented will be applicable to upper grades in a FLES/ WLES program as well.
Today’s Gen Alpha and Gen Z learners connect themselves through short videos, cultural updates and authentic media that reflect their daily lives. How can we harness these formats to maximize engagement and language growth in our classrooms? In this session, participants will explore strategies for transforming authentic clips, news segments and cultural spotlights into interpretive, interpersonal and presentational tasks. Join us as we take everyday media and adapt it for student-centered lessons that capture attention while deepening linguistic proficiency!
There’s a growing focus on College and Career Readiness (CCR) and career-connected learning, but where do world language programs fit in? This session explores how educators can leverage language credentialing with industry recognized assessments to align language programs with CCR initiatives. We’ll examine how language proficiency credentials support college and workforce readiness, offering students a competitive edge. Attendees will gain insights into employer recognition of language skills, real-world applications, and strategies to advocate for language programs within CCR frameworks, ensuring their long-term value and sustainability.
Proficiency & Learning Specialist, Language Testing International
Language Testing International (LTI), the exclusive licensee of ACTFL, is a leader in proficiency-based language teaching and learning. ACTFL assessments maintain stringent levels of rigor and reliability that ensure a valid measure of communicative skills, recognized by K12 and higher... Read More →
Friday October 16, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm EDT Shaker Room
This interactive workshop is designed for world language teachers seeking to deepen student engagement and proficiency through an art unit at the Checkpoint B level. Grounded in the three modes of communication—interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational—participants will explore practical, classroom-ready strategies that bring art, culture, and language together in meaningful ways.
