Ya sabes

Bold ideas and practical resources for your classroom

Welcome to the latest issue of Ya sabes, your go-to source for everything you need to take your Spanish instruction to the next level. In this issue: 

• How to get started with proficiency-based grading
• Take a look inside creating a truly diverse language program
• Support all students in your classroom with our free downloads

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¡Felicidades!

Getting started with proficiency-based grading

In our three-part series on the Proficiency Talks blog, Instructional Strategist Cristin Bleess takes a look at the nuts and bolts of transforming your grade book.

In Part I she explores the shift in her thinking from a number-based grade book to one that truly captures her students' abilities. In Part II she gives practical advice for making the switch. And in the last installment she shares the 6 dos and don'ts of a proficiency-driven grade book.

'Inclusion is not just checking off boxes' 

What makes a language program truly inclusive? How can we ensure that all students feel represented? How do we keep an open conversation with teachers to learn about the ever-shifting landscapes of their classroom? These are some of the questions we wrestle with in a recent Proficiency Talks blog post.  We give you an insider's look at what goes into making sure that our world language programs represent and speak to all students in your classroom.

Free downloads to support all students 

Take a peek at some of the free proficiency-driven supporting materials we offer to make your life in the classroom easier. 

• Classroom expressions handout in Spanish and French to help keep your students in the target language
• Free lesson plans (in Spanish and French)
• 5 reasons to teach for proficiency—a free download to make the case for proficiency-driven instruction.
• Strategies for supporting heritage learners
• Tips on integrating differentiated instruction
• How to cultivate interculturality in your classroom