Connecting Beyond the Classroom - Authentic Language Learning
One of the downfalls of learning a new language in the classroom is the lack of authenticity in practice and conversation. However, with the increase in conferencing technologies, it is becoming much easier to connect with people overseas, and have meaningful and real conversations in the target language - a vital condition for second language acquisition.
Grade 12 students studying Spanish at The Country Day School have had multiple opportunities to have authentic conversations via technology. Each year our students are assigned a Pen Pal who lives in Madrid, Spain. Throughout the year(s), students write letters to their Pen Pals, thereby forging friendships which has become a highlight of the course for them. In fact, when former CDS student Martina Ferreira moved to Madrid last June, she was able to actually meet her Pen Pal with whom she communicated while studying at CDS!
Moreover, the current Grade 12 Spanish class who were in Martina’s Grade 11 Spanish class last year, is now keeping in contact with her using technology that allows us to see her and communicate with her in class. The six-hour time difference works in our favour, and we have scheduled a few sessions with her. It is a wonderful opportunity for our students because it not only requires them to communicate in the target language, but it also allows for a deeper cultural understanding. Students speak to Martina about life in Spain, and how it is similar and different to that in Canada, as well as her experiences living in both countries – all in Español!
When utilized in the right context, conferencing technology, such as GoToMeeting, Skype and Facetime, can help bring global perspectives and language immersion into the classroom. The world, and all the expertise and possibilities it has to offer, are at your fingertips – so dream big!
Beatrice Stefanescu, Modern Languages Faculty
Beatrice Stefanescu, Modern Languages Faculty
 | Support, Know & Inspire |
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
13415 Dufferin Street King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
