Why authentic learning is an integral part of the language acquisition curriculum at Northbridge

Role-play is one example of such an approach. Incorporating role-play into the classroom adds variety, a change of pace and opportunities for a lot of language production and also a lot of fun! As language teachers, we try to make role-play an integral part of the class and not a 'one-off' event.

For instance, students have been trying on the role of a weather forecaster as part of their French class. They used the green room to tape the weather TV segment using the bulletin they’ve created in class.

Traditional language classes used to focus on vocabulary, grammar, reading, speaking or listening skills. However, we should bear in mind, that communication and culture are inseparable and interconnected. To make learning more authentic we not only focus on language learning but also on the cultural aspects of the language.

Students in Chinese class practiced calligraphy to welcome Chinese New Year as part of their “Traditional Festivals” unit. During this unit, students learnt about why and how Chinese people celebrate CNY. They practiced writing the Chinese character “福” meaning blessing or happiness. Traditionally signs saying “福” can be displayed on doors and walls.