Practical Proficiency Podcast
Where world language teachers gather to transition to proficiency oriented instruction through comprehensible input. All through practical, real-life, teacher-friendly ideas that make teaching language more joyful! Hosted by Devon of La Libre Language Learning.
Podcasting since 2024 • 43 episodes
Practical Proficiency Podcast
Latest Episodes
#43 - "I struggle with how to teach vocab consistently" : Listener Q+A on Presenting New Vocab
I answer a listener’s question about teaching vocabulary consistently by reframing every class as a vocabulary class that moves words through a three-stage continuum: introduce, recognize, produce. I share the science of binding, why stories be...
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Season 3
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Episode 43
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38:27
#42 - Why a Simple “Password” Can Transform Your World Language Class
What if a 10-second ritual at your classroom door could boost target-language use, cut awkward silence, and build community—all at once? We walk through the “student password” routine step-by-step, from the first day you model it to the moment ...
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Season 3
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Episode 42
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31:02
#41 - Tools for Teaching Autistic Learners and Managing Absences in ASL Classes: Listener Q+A
We answer Sherry’s two-part question on engaging autistic learners in an ASL classroom and creating a sane, effective plan for frequent absences. We share concrete, low-lift strategies that center detail-focused questioning, visual supports, an...
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Season 3
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Episode 40
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34:55
#40 - 8 Ways to Lower Student Anxiety in World Language Class
Asking students to speak in a new language can feel like asking them to step on stage without a script. We dig into why anxiety hits world language classrooms harder than most, then share nine practical ways to make participation feel safe, pre...
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Season 3
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Episode 40
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22:35
#39 - The Role of Grammar in Your Proficiency-Oriented Classroom
Grammar—the eternal battleground of language education. Is it the foundation of language learning or a distraction from real communication? In this eye-opening exploration, we cut through decades of misinformation to reveal what research actual...
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Season 3
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Episode 39
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33:30
Fan Mail
Hi Devon! I’m a French teacher and have been listening to your podcast eve day for the past week THANK YOU! I have a question — I struggle with how to teach vocabulary consistently. I rotate between slides and images, stories, etc. but would like to be more consistent. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you again — I have learned so much!
Winchester, Virginia