Incorporate AP Themes into the Language Classroom
By now you all know that I LOVE to incorporate AP thems into the language classroom. Thematic units of study really empower students to
Become global thinkers
Get real-world experiences
Have higher-level thinking
However, incorporating AP themes into the language classroom can also give students the opportunity to
Associate with other content areas
View the world through a different lens
Relate authentically to the language
Connect to topics that they are passionate about
What Are AP Themes?
AP language themes are big for our teaching practice. Incorporating AP themes into the language classroom is extremely important for our students. Due to the fact that there is not an AP test for ASL, teachers avoid these themes. However, there is still a use for these ideas for engaging students. If you are not familiar with the World Language AP themes here they are:
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Beauty and aesthetics
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Science and technology
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Personal and public identities
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Families and communities
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Global challenges
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Contemporary life
Within these 6 themes, there are so many possibilities that can be incorporated into the language classroom. Think about all the ideas and topics not covered in a textbook. Saving it all for higher-level classes can be overwhelming for the teacher and the student. Spread it out and let everyone enjoy the benefits.
When to Incorporate AP Themes in the Classroom
AP themes don’t have to be only for upper-level classes. Truthfully, students can begin to delve into these themes as early as the first year. Incorporating AP themes into the language classroom does not need to connect to one unit or one level. Imagine what students could do with the language if given the opportunity to interact with it every day.
Check out these thematic units for ASL classes…they are already made for you.
Don’t Just Introduce
AP themes should be treated as much more than a cultural side note. They should be used as an opportunity to get students using all modalities of language study. When learning about art, literature, music, science, people, communities, or beauty, students should be able to use expressive and receptive communication skills. In the unit, students should learn how to produce language, understand others when they use the language and have a dialogue about the topic of study.
Implement Yourself
Have you tried to incorporate AP themes into the language classroom? Here are three posts that cover AP themes and the 3 modes of communication: Interpretive, Interpersonal, and Presentational.
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