Various research methods were used in developing this resource, including Core French classroom observations, online surveys completed by FSL teachers, field testing of a prototype module, and focus groups with FSL curriculum leaders and teachers.
Research Results
In the classroom, teachers have moved away from the stand-and-deliver model of teaching. The Gradual Release of Responsibility approach is used widely in today’s FSL classrooms and teachers often prepare their own projectable teaching slides and lesson content.
Teachers have been trained in the CFR and expect resources to be mapped to proficiencies and for student tasks to be action-oriented.
85% of teachers believe it is “critically important” or “very important” to have good visual supports for teaching students French.
FSL teachers prefer to work from individual student modules rather than one big textbook.
88% of teachers prefer to have blended resources (print and digital) for their classrooms.
Resources should seek to weave in intercultural awareness.
95% of teachers indicated they currently use digital content in their classrooms.
Students were engaged by the Mon réseau, ma vie prototype because they “saw a purpose in the activities.”
The Mon réseau, ma vie prototype encouraged “meaningful classroom discussions.” Teachers really liked the listening and speaking opportunities and found “the reading and writing activities complemented the language interaction.”
