Comprehensible Input (CI) stands as a cornerstone in language education, advocating for language acquisition through exposure to understandable language. However, in classrooms facing behavioral challenges, poor participation, or special needs, tailoring CI becomes crucial for fostering an inclusive learning environment without compromising its core principles.
1. Behavioral Challenges:
Addressing disruptive behavior requires a delicate balance between maintaining a CI-rich environment and managing classroom dynamics. Implementing clear expectations, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement can create a structured atmosphere conducive to language learning. Incorporate CI techniques that allow for movement or hands-on activities, keeping students engaged and minimizing disruptions.
Running dictation might present a challenge, but a gallery walk could help provide movement to break up just sitting still. You could also do a four corners or two sides activity. For example, you could say (or make a slide) that says “I like pizza.” in the target language and have students move to the side to show their preference (a yes side and a no side).
2. Poor Participation:
In classrooms where participation is lacking, cultivating a safe and encouraging atmosphere is paramount. Start with low-pressure CI activities, gradually increasing complexity as students gain confidence. Utilize strategies like think-pair-share, where students discuss ideas with a partner before sharing with the whole class. Providing choices in activities empowers students, encouraging them to participate in a way that suits their comfort level.
As an example, you could do story asking as a way to engage students. If they don’t want to respond, then you can do story telling instead. Another way is to use Kahoot to let students select story elements or use the Verb Ninja Story Element Picker available on TpT.
3. Special Needs:
Adapting CI for special needs students involves recognizing individual learning styles and providing necessary accommodations. Visual aids, simplified language, and personalized adaptations can enhance comprehension. Collaborate with special education professionals to tailor CI strategies, ensuring they align with the diverse needs of students while maintaining an inclusive environment.
I use a graphic organizer for notetaking for students who struggle taking notes in a notebook. It has a place for the date, the weather, their well-being, the starter, the vocabulary, and whatever activity we choose to do. It helps them visualize and organize the information. I keep it in a folder with their name on it.
4. Multisensory Approaches:
Integrate multisensory activities to cater to diverse learning styles. Incorporate music, movement, or tactile experiences into CI lessons. These approaches not only enhance comprehension but also provide alternative avenues for expression, making language acquisition more accessible for all students.
I am a believer in the power of TPR (Total Physical Response). I use TPR for 10-15 minutes daily in my classroom. I have a lot of manipulatives like stuffed animals and pretend food and containers. I say things like “Put the tomato in the bucket” or “Find the bear and put it behind the bag.” I also use a 33 number pocket chart and have students put things in the number pocket mentioned.
5. Individualized Feedback:
Recognize and celebrate small victories, providing individualized feedback to boost confidence. Tailor CI activities to showcase students’ strengths, ensuring that language learning remains a positive and empowering experience for each learner. Ask questions that students can answer while stretching their i+1 (i=what they can presently do).
6. Flexible Pacing:
Recognize that each student progresses at their own pace. Allow flexibility in pacing CI activities, ensuring that students have the time and support needed to grasp language concepts. Differentiate instruction when necessary, providing additional resources or modified tasks to accommodate varied learning needs.
In challenging classrooms, the adaptability of Comprehensible Input becomes a tool for fostering an inclusive and supportive language-learning environment. By implementing these tailored strategies, educators can overcome hurdles while ensuring that the transformative power of CI remains accessible to every student, regardless of their individual challenges or learning differences.