Foreign Language
Curriculum: Getting Started.
by Holly
Furgason
August
22, 2001
These lessons consists
of commands that you will give to your child as
you help them act them
out. As you give the commands, you will help your child act out the command
giving him comprehension. Please follow these rules to make the lesson
effective:
1. Gather any props you need before the lesson starts!
Props for each lesson are
listed at the top of each lesson. They are generally common household items.
2. Practice before each lesson!
If you studied the language
in high school then you should be able to pronounce the commands well enough
for the lessons. If you have never studied the language (or would like
to brush up) find a lesson book that has a pronunciation guide or have
a native speaker help you.
3. Keep lessons short!
A short lesson everyday
that keeps your child's interest is much more effective than a long lesson
once or twice a week.
4. DO NOT use any English!
Even if your child doesn't
"get it" right away, he will eventually. Think about all the times you
showed him how to "pet the kitty gently" before he understood the meaning.
If your child doesn't understand make sure that your actions are obvious;
don't say "Catch!" as you throw the ball.
5. Say the commands in gentle way!
"Command" is a harsh word
but commands don't have to be harsh. "Give me a hug!" is one example of
a command that is loving.
6. Execute the command every time you say it!
Even if your child has an
understanding of the command it won't hurt but if your child doesn't have
an understanding yet it could cause stress which interferes with learning.
Resist the urge to "test" your child. His progress will be made obvious
as the lessons progress.
7. DO NOT require you child to speak!
Comprehension always exceeds
fluency and speaking will eventually be spontaneous. Mixing of the language
will be common ("I'm grosser than her!") but this is a common phenomenon
among bi-lingual children and just shows that both languages are being
assimilated.
8. Keep lessons novel!
Be sure to change the sequence
of the commands and throw in commands from past lessons. Use different
props from time to time (i.e. different sizes
and colors of balls) and
change location.
9. Have fun!
This is just a fun time
to interact with your child and should be thought of as play.
Ready to go?
Click here for Spanish
Lesson: Action! |
