We are offering three pre-conference workshops this year and each workshop is only $30. Spaces for the pre-conference workshops are limited, so make sure to purchase with your early bird ticket.

NFLC Pre-Conference Workshop (NEWLY ADDED)

Thursday, April 15, 10 AM-12 PM ET (2 hours)

Involve Me, I’ll Learn: Brain-Based Lesson Design
Led by National Foreign Language Center (NFLC)
Presenter: Laura Terrill & Matt Coss, National Foreign Language Center, University of Maryland
Presentation language: English

A clear goal and a cognitively engaging task are key to creating purposeful lessons that strengthen long-term retention of learning. Create memorable contexts for communication and in all three modes by working with culturally rich texts. Learn how to incorporate lesson activities that allow learners to demonstrate what they know and can do by applying easy to use strategies that allow for immediate feedback.

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ACTFL Pre-Conference Workshop (SOLD OUT)

Thursday, April 15, 10 AM-12 PM ET (2 hours)

Journey to Proficiency: Map the Route, Guide the Tour, Enjoy the Ride
Led by American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)
Presenter: Jessica Haxhi, President of ACTFL
Presentation language: English

Every year students enroll in your class eager to “travel,” through the target language and cultures. You are the “travel planner” and “tour guide” on the language learning journey. What motivates learners more than acquiring language to meet their purposes? Plan the journey by picturing the final destination (advanced proficiency), stops along the way, assistance for your travelers, and helpful tips.  Focus on proficiency in your classes to ensure learners are motivated to stay on the language learning “journey.” Learn to plan, teach, assess, engage, and celebrate learner success – to lead learners on the best trip ever to reach their desired destination: proficiency!

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NCSSFL Pre-Conference Workshop (SOLD OUT)

Thursday, April 15, 1-3 PM ET (2 hours)

Implementing Proficiency-Based Tools & Standards to Build Exemplary K-12 Chinese Programs
Led by National Council of State Supervisors for Languages (NCSSFL)
Presenters: Dr. Ann Marie Gunte & Michele Braud, NCSSFL
Presentation language: English

Many states and districts have implemented proficiency-based language standards that outline what students should be able to do with language as a result of high-quality K-12 programs. This workshop will first give an overview of the policies, initiatives and tools at the local, state and national levels that are used to build and expand various Chinese program models, including dual language/immersion, heritage language, and the traditional K-12 sequence.

Secondly, participants will examine recent language acquisition research, intercultural communication initiatives, and student learning outcomes that have been used to establish proficiency expectations in different programs. The alignment and use of proficiency scales will be discussed, and free classroom resources like LinguaFolio will be shared.  Activities will be modeled that can help administrators, parents and other stakeholders understand proficiency-based language learning. Finally, a number of resources for professional development will be provided, and participants will learn how to ensure the success and sustainability of well-implemented programs.

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CELIN Pre-Conference Workshop (SOLD OUT)

Friday, April 16, 10 AM-12 PM ET (2 hours)

Developing a Toolbox of Innovative Practices for the Post-COVID Era
Led by Chinese Early Language and Immersion Network (CELIN) at Asia Society
Presenters: Dr. Shuhan Wang, Director of CELIN Program
Presentation language: English/Bilingual

COVID-19 forced educators and schools to launch into virtual or hybrid spaces for instruction and learning. There have been innovative program design, instructional and assessment strategies, and resources developed under pressure. School leaders and teachers will share and discuss what good practices have emerged that can be carried on as schools go back to the traditional face-to-face instruction or to a hybrid model. Participants will walk away with a toolbox of innovative ideas.

Register