Episode 115: Comprehensible Input Without the Burnout: Lesson Ideas for Challenging Classroom Days

Growing With Proficiency The Podcast

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In this episode of Growing with Proficiency: The Podcast, I share lesson ideas for those days when you're not feeling your best, or your students seem disengaged. We've all been there—those moments when students are easily distracted, impatient, or simply not cooperating. And sometimes, as teachers, we’re the ones feeling drained.

I'll talk about practical strategies that provide tons of comprehensible input without relying on oral facilitation. These activities are perfect for creating a balance between high-energy moments and quieter, more independent student work.

Biggest takeaways from this episode:

• How to establish lesson goals that lead to richer learning experiences.
• Creative ways to scaffold meaning through word clouds, matching activities, and TPR.
• Reading activities like traffic light reading, sketch annotations, and gallery walks.
• Why personalized writing and interactive games like Socrative or Textivate can boost engagement on tough days.
• The importance of adapting lessons to your and your students' energy levels to avoid burnout.

Whether you’re having an off day or just need a change of pace in the classroom, these ideas can keep the input flowing while giving you a break. Tune in for actionable tips, and let’s keep growing with proficiency, even on the hardest days!

Listen now for more strategies to keep your students engaged, no matter the challenges!

Resources:
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Episode 113
Episode 88 with Dr. Bill VanPatten