ALEX Resources

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

The teacher will talk about the history of Cinco de Mayo (who, what, where, when, why). The teacher will read Marco’s Cinco de Mayo by Lisa Bullard. The teacher will teach the students the Mexican Hat Dance.

This activity was created as a result of the World Languages COS Resource Development Summit.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Communicate on some very familiar topics using single words or learned phrases.

Examples: likes/dislikes, sports, hobbies

b. Answer simple questions.

Examples: What is your name? What day is today? What is the weather?

c. Greet peers and introduce selves.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 2 :

2) Demonstrate an understanding of simple spoken or written language presented through a variety of media resources on familiar topics.

a. Recognize key words and phrases in the target language.

Examples: colors, numbers, animals, weather, days of the week

b. Identify people and objects in their environment.

Examples: clothing, classroom items, family members

c. Understand basic instructions.

Examples: turn on lights, look at board

d. Interpret the meaning of gestures, intonation, and other auditory cues.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 7 :

7) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native cultures.

a. Compare gestures used to greet family, friends, and acquaintances.

b. Compare and contrast tangible products of the native and target cultures.

Examples: Food, clothing, toys, and children's stories

c. Compare simple behavior patterns in the native and target cultures.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 1 :

1) Communicate and share on familiar topics with a variety of words, phrases, and simple sentences in the present time frame.

a. Greet and leave people in a polite way.

b. Exchange basic information about self and others.

c. Exchange basic information about their everyday lives.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 2 :

2) Interpret what is heard, read, or viewed on familiar topics using the present tense.

a. Identify main characters, themes, and ideas from narrative text.

b. Recognize words, phrases and simple sentences in an informational text.

c. Interpret visual and auditory cues.

This novice low French activity guides students through a series of greetings and introductions. Students start with a warm up that asks them to create a conversation using a series of pre-printed cards. Once students decide the correct order of the cards they are to act out the conversation presented on the cards. Students are then asked to each select a card that identifies the role they will play in the activity. Pretending to be the person on the card, students will move around the room introducing themselves and greeting others. Students are also given the opportunity to select a 'time of day' card to indicate whether the conversation should take place in the morning, noon, or evening. This allows students to vary their conversations as they move around the room. As an extension activity, teachers can demonstrate proper gestures used in greetings and have students include these in their conversations.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 2 :

2) Demonstrate an understanding of simple spoken or written language presented through a variety of media resources on familiar topics.

a. Recognize key words and phrases in the target language.

Examples: colors, numbers, animals, weather, days of the week

b. Identify people and objects in their environment.

Examples: clothing, classroom items, family members

c. Understand basic instructions.

Examples: turn on lights, look at board

d. Interpret the meaning of gestures, intonation, and other auditory cues.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Foster a student-centered learning process by creating can-do statements with the help of their teachers.
Collect evidence to demonstrate achievement of goals such as self-assessment checklists, portfolios.
Perform for school or community celebrations.
Identify places in the community where the target language is used.
Listen to music and sing songs from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 2 :

2) Demonstrate an understanding of simple spoken or written language presented through a variety of media resources on familiar topics.

a. Recognize everyday words and phrases on topics related to personal experiences.

Examples: Places to go, careers, leisure time activities

b. Identify cognates.

c. Categorize vocabulary in predictable topic areas.

d. Differentiate among statements, questions, and exclamations.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 7 :

7) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native cultures.

a. Compare and contrast intangible products of the native and target cultures.

Examples: Songs, rhymes, folktales

b. Analyze the daily routines and celebrations (holidays) of the native and target cultures.

c. Observe and identify cultural patterns of meal times.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 2 :

2) Interpret what is heard, read, or viewed on familiar topics using the present tense.

a. Identify main characters, themes, and ideas from narrative text.

b. Recognize words, phrases and simple sentences in an informational text.

c. Interpret visual and auditory cues.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 3 :

3) Present information on familiar topics with a variety of words, phrases, and simple sentences in the present time frame.

a. Present basic information orally and in writing.

b. Give simple instructions.

c. Tell about familiar objects, experiences, and daily routines.

d. Recite short memorized phrases, poems, and/or rhymes.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 5 :

5) Identify products of the target cultures.

a. Recognize arts, crafts or graphic representations of the target culture.

b. Identify the cultural elements found in music and short video clips.

c. Listen to, read, and identify the products from the target culture.

This novice low to novice mid activity introduces German students to children's counting rhymes. Students listen to four different audio files. As they do, they fill in the missing words in the accompanying cloze activity. Once finished students are able to check their work automatically. Teachers can also choose to download the file so that the activity can be completed offline or in class as a whole. To achieve presentational speaking standards students can recite their favorite rhyme.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 7 :

7) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native cultures.

a. Compare gestures used to greet family, friends, and acquaintances.

b. Compare and contrast tangible products of the native and target cultures.

Examples: Food, clothing, toys, and children's stories

c. Compare simple behavior patterns in the native and target cultures.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 4 :

4) Identify practices of the target cultures.

a. Use basic appropriate gestures in common interactions.

b. Identify behaviors in a variety of environments.

c. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 9 :

9) Identify products, practices, and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture.

a. Identify daily routines in the target culture and the native culture.

b. Identify celebrations in the target culture and the native culture.

c. Identify games, stories, songs, and rhymes from the native culture and those from the target culture.

This novice low Spanish activity is geared toward introducing middle school-aged students to a variety of holidays celebrated in Mexico. Students will identify ethnic and religious influences on Mexican culture, understand the meaning and history of Día de Los Muertos, Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Grito de Dolores, and Cinco de Mayo. Students will explore these holidays through a variety of activities that include analyzing photos, building memorial altars, and exploring websites. The provided assessment asks students to compare and contrast one of the holidays with one from the United States.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 5 :

5) Link target language and other subject areas to acquire information and begin to develop diverse cultural perspectives.

a. Acquire vocabulary related to age-appropriate school content.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 5 :

5) Link target language and other subject areas to acquire information and develop diverse cultural perspectives.

a. Acquire and expand vocabulary related to age-appropriate school content.

[WLAN] WL4 (7-12) 2 :

2) Interpret, restate, and react to what is heard, read, or viewed on familiar and new topics.

a. Give main ideas, supporting details, and justify inferences in selected texts.

b. Identify themes, settings, characters, and plot lines found in literary texts.

c. Use background knowledge from other disciplines to understand spoken and written information in the target language.

[WLAN] WL4 (7-12) 3 :

3) Present information on familiar and new topics in various time frames and aspects using varied vocabulary and more complex sentence structure.

a. Express needs, wants and preferences with supporting reasons.

b. Present information on academic and work-related topics.

c. Present information about common age-appropriate issues.

[WLAN] WL5 (7-12) 2 :

2) Understand the main idea and a few details in texts on a variety of topics related to everyday life and personal interests in various time frames and moods using varied vocabulary and more complex sentence structure.

a. Relate main themes and significant details in ads, reports, or announcements presented on TV, radio, video, or in live presentations.

b. Describe the main themes and significant details on topics found in print media.

c. Follow short instructions to complete a task.

[WLAN] WL5 (7-12) 3 :

3) Present information on a wide variety of both familiar and new topics using varied vocabulary and more complex sentence structure in various time frames and moods.

a. Present information about personal and social events, experiences, and activities.

b. Present information on a topic studied or researched.

c. Present points of view and provide reasons to support them.

This Chinese lesson revolves around the novel Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, an English language novel that children learning Chinese will find exciting and culturally relevant to their language studies. While the posted age maybe elementary school, this unit is especially useful for intermediate high Chinese language learners, even in high school. After reading the children's novel in Chinese (available for purchase at online retail sites), students can identify how the book illustrates the themes of courage and generosity. Following the activities (using Chinese in class rather than English) students will create their own personal narrative in the target language.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 5 :

5) Link target language and other subject areas to acquire information and develop diverse cultural perspectives.

a. Listen to and acquire vocabulary related to age-appropriate school content.

Examples: Modes of transportation, the planets, and time-telling.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Name practices observed in festivals, holidays, or daily life.

b. Identify landmarks and symbols of the target culture.

c. Identify similarities and differences between the target and home cultures.

d. Describe tangible products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 5 :

5) Link target language and other subject areas to acquire information and begin to develop diverse cultural perspectives.

a. Acquire vocabulary related to age-appropriate school content.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and etiquette from the target culture.

b. Observe and analyze patterns of behavior typical of the target culture.

c. Draw conclusions about target culture values based on authentic materials.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 5 :

5) Link target language and other subject areas to acquire information and develop diverse cultural perspectives.

a. Acquire and expand vocabulary related to age-appropriate school content.

This interactive hands-on French activity introduces students to the artist Henri Rousseau and his artistic style. The activity instructions and resources are in English, making it suitable for novice-low to novice-high French learners. This particular activity also connects directly with the national science standards as students discuss Rousseau's rainforest and the animals he chose to include in his work. Students start by exploring Rousseau's background and then explore ideas on why he chose to draw the rainforest. Students then create their own artwork while incorporating scientific elements like those found in Rousseau's work.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 5 :

5) Link target language and other subject areas to acquire information and develop diverse cultural perspectives.

a. Listen to and acquire vocabulary related to age-appropriate school content.

Examples: Modes of transportation, the planets, and time-telling.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Foster a student-centered learning process by creating can-do statements with the help of their teachers.
Collect evidence to demonstrate achievement of goals such as self-assessment checklists, portfolios.
Perform for school or community celebrations.
Identify places in the community where the target language is used.
Listen to music and sing songs from the target culture.

This interactive hands-on set of activities is perfect for introducing elementary-aged students to Latino culture through music. It is also a perfect activity for Hispanic Heritage Month. The link provides an English handout that offers a variety of hands-on activities including a glossary of music-related vocabulary and Latino music styles, directions for making a pan flute out of straws, information about Selena and Celia Cruz, and activities that connect math to Latino beats through music. As students complete each activity with their teacher they learn to identify the rhythms of the target culture. To meet community standards teachers can choose to scan a QR code located on the document to access a Spotify playlist compiled by the Smithsonian. This will allow students to listen to music while they work.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Communicate on some very familiar topics using single words or learned phrases.

Examples: likes/dislikes, sports, hobbies

b. Answer simple questions.

Examples: What is your name? What day is today? What is the weather?

c. Greet peers and introduce selves.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Communicate on very familiar topics using a variety of words and phrases.

b. Make simple statements in a conversation.

c. Recite high-frequency learned words.

d. Ask simple questions.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Name practices observed in festivals, holidays, or daily life.

b. Identify landmarks and symbols of the target culture.

c. Identify similarities and differences between the target and home cultures.

d. Describe tangible products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Communicate and exchange information on familiar topics using simple sentences.

b. Engage in short social interactions with peers.

c. Exchange some personal information with peers.

d. Write simple descriptions and short messages on familiar topics.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and etiquette from the target culture.

b. Observe and analyze patterns of behavior typical of the target culture.

c. Draw conclusions about target culture values based on authentic materials.

[WLAN] WILP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Converse on familiar topics connecting basic sentences to provide information.

b. Ask and answer questions on factual information familiar to the student.

c. Retell information with details about what is read, heard, and seen.

d. Write a series of sentences on familiar topics.

[WLAN] WILP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Engage in conversation demonstrating culturally respectful behavior.

b. Identify and research an area of interest in the target culture.

c. Participate in age-appropriate cultural practices such as games, sports, and entertainment.

[WLAN] WIMP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Use language to handle tasks related to personal needs.

b. Exchange information about daily activities and personal preferences.

c. Support personal opinions with some details.

d. Exchange information about a topic of special interest to the student.

[WLAN] WIMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Role-play culturally appropriate interactions in a variety of daily activities.

b. Use culturally appropriate verbal and nonverbal behavior among peers or mixed groups.

c. Explore, analyze, and present the how and why of common cultural practices and perspectives.

[WLAN] WIHP (0-8) 1 :

1) Exchange simple spoken and written information in the target language, utilizing cultural references where appropriate.

a. Use language to share events and experiences in various time frames.

b. Synthesize learned material to produce unrehearsed conversations.

c. Use language to complete tasks requiring multiple steps.

d. Narrate a simple story in written or oral form.

e. State a viewpoint on an issue and support opinions.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 1 :

1) Communicate and share on familiar topics with a variety of words, phrases, and simple sentences in the present time frame.

a. Greet and leave people in a polite way.

b. Exchange basic information about self and others.

c. Exchange basic information about their everyday lives.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 9 :

9) Identify products, practices, and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture.

a. Identify daily routines in the target culture and the native culture.

b. Identify celebrations in the target culture and the native culture.

c. Identify games, stories, songs, and rhymes from the native culture and those from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 1 :

1) Communicate and share on familiar topics with a variety of words, phrases, and simple sentences in the past time frame.

a. Use the language to meet basic survival needs.

b. Participate in conversations on familiar topics using a variety of phrases and simple sentences.

c. Ask and answer questions on factual information.

d. Narrate incidents in the past time frame.

e. Describe activities and personal preferences in the past time frame.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 9 :

9) Compare products, practices, and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture.

a. Compare daily routines in the target culture and the native culture.

b. Compare celebrations in the target culture and the native culture.

c. Compare games, stories, songs, and rhymes from the native culture and those from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL3 (7-12) 1 :

1) Exchange information on familiar topics with a variety of words, phrases, and simple sentences in a variety of time frames.

a. Exchange basic information about self, others, and special interests.

b. Ask for and provide information on familiar topics.

c. Use language to handle tasks related to personal needs.

[WLAN] WL3 (7-12) 9 :

9) Compare products, practices and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture in a variety of time frames.

a. Compare activities and events of the target culture to the native culture.

b. Compare cultural practices in the target culture to the native culture.

This Spanish game board can be used for any level of proficiency (novice low, novice mid, novice high, intermediate low, intermediate mid, intermediate high). This game is based on a Spanish television series and can easily be adapted to use with any vocabulary topic. Instructions are included for how to play and how to assemble the game board. Options for individual and full class (large) game boards are included. When questions and answers are provided in Spanish, students are able to reinforce their interpersonal communication skills.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 2 :

2) Demonstrate an understanding of simple spoken or written language presented through a variety of media resources on familiar topics.

a. Recognize key words and phrases in the target language.

Examples: colors, numbers, animals, weather, days of the week

b. Identify people and objects in their environment.

Examples: clothing, classroom items, family members

c. Understand basic instructions.

Examples: turn on lights, look at board

d. Interpret the meaning of gestures, intonation, and other auditory cues.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 6 :

6) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native languages.

a. Identify cognates.

b. Differentiate formal and informal forms of language.

c. Compare sound systems of the native and target languages.

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Foster a student-centered learning process by creating can-do statements with the help of their teachers.
Collect evidence to demonstrate achievement of goals such as self-assessment checklists, portfolios.
Perform for school or community celebrations.
Identify places in the community where the target language is used.
Listen to music and sing songs from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 2 :

2) Demonstrate an understanding of simple spoken or written language presented through a variety of media resources on familiar topics.

a. Recognize everyday words and phrases on topics related to personal experiences.

Examples: Places to go, careers, leisure time activities

b. Identify cognates.

c. Categorize vocabulary in predictable topic areas.

d. Differentiate among statements, questions, and exclamations.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Name practices observed in festivals, holidays, or daily life.

b. Identify landmarks and symbols of the target culture.

c. Identify similarities and differences between the target and home cultures.

d. Describe tangible products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 6 :

6) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native languages.

a. Identify cognates and hypothesize about why languages might need to borrow words.

b. Compare word order of native and target languages.

c. Compare patterns of spoken communication such as intonation and pronunciation.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Interact with speakers of the target language.
Attend or use media to view cultural events in the target culture.
Consider realistic and responsible use of media to further target language learning.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 2 :

2) Demonstrate an understanding of simple spoken or written language presented through a variety of media resources on familiar topics.

a. Report on content of a brief written or spoken message on familiar topics.

Examples: Emails, personal notes, letters, text messages

b. Identify the main idea in various media such as texts, posters, videos, etc.

c. Identify the main characters of a story.

d. Recall details in simple texts that contain familiar vocabulary.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and etiquette from the target culture.

b. Observe and analyze patterns of behavior typical of the target culture.

c. Draw conclusions about target culture values based on authentic materials.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 6 :

6) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native languages.

a. Compare similarities and differences in writing systems of native and target languages.

b. Recognize idiomatic expressions in the target and native languages.

c. Compare and contrast patterns of spoken communication such as intonation and register.

d.Compare and contrast patterns of written communication such as style, syntax, and audience.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Conduct research and report on a cultural topic.
Identify professions that require proficiency in another language.
Determine the "what" and "how" of their future learning.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 2 :

2) Interpret what is heard, read, or viewed on familiar topics using the present tense.

a. Identify main characters, themes, and ideas from narrative text.

b. Recognize words, phrases and simple sentences in an informational text.

c. Interpret visual and auditory cues.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 5 :

5) Identify products of the target cultures.

a. Recognize arts, crafts or graphic representations of the target culture.

b. Identify the cultural elements found in music and short video clips.

c. Listen to, read, and identify the products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 8 :

8) Identify characteristics of the target language and the native language.

a. Observe formal and informal forms of language.

b. Identify word order for dates and placement of descriptors.

c. Identify high-frequency idiomatic expressions.

d. Identify cognates.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 9 :

9) Identify products, practices, and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture.

a. Identify daily routines in the target culture and the native culture.

b. Identify celebrations in the target culture and the native culture.

c. Identify games, stories, songs, and rhymes from the native culture and those from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 11 :

11) Identify opportunities to use the target language beyond the classroom environment.

a. Plan real or imaginary travel.

b. Attend or view cultural events in person or virtually.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 2 :

2) Interpret what is heard, read, or viewed on familiar topics using the past tense.

a. Restate information from audio and visual documents in the target language.

b. Locate key information from announcements and messages connected to daily activities in the target culture.

c. Relate the main themes and significant details on topics from other subjects and products of the cultures.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 5 :

5) Identify perspectives through products of the target cultures.

a. Describe products of the target culture.

b. Describe arts, crafts, or graphic representations of the target culture.

c. Describe the cultural elements found in music and short video clips.

d. Listen to, read, and describe the products in a variety of texts.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 8 :

8) Compare characteristics of the target language and the native language.

a. Use formal and informal forms of language.

b. Compare word order for dates and placement of descriptors.

c. Use high-frequency idiomatic expressions.

d. Use cognates.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 9 :

9) Compare products, practices, and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture.

a. Compare daily routines in the target culture and the native culture.

b. Compare celebrations in the target culture and the native culture.

c. Compare games, stories, songs, and rhymes from the native culture and those from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 11 :

11) Describe opportunities to use the target language beyond the classroom environment.

a. Participate in student exchange opportunities locally, globally, or virtually.

b. Explore the internet to find sites of personal interest where they can use the target language.

This novice-mid to novice-high French activity explores the online Menu for Paris's famous Les Deux Magots Cafe. Students explore authentic resources as they search through the cafe's website and menu looking for recognizable words and cognates. Students are asked to examine the menu and identify starters, main dishes, and desserts. As a follow-up activity, students are encouraged the print the menu and use it to role-play ordering a meal at Les Deux Magots.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 7 :

7) Investigate, analyze, and reflect on similarities and differences between the target and native cultures.

a. Compare gestures used to greet family, friends, and acquaintances.

b. Compare and contrast tangible products of the native and target cultures.

Examples: Food, clothing, toys, and children's stories

c. Compare simple behavior patterns in the native and target cultures.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Name practices observed in festivals, holidays, or daily life.

b. Identify landmarks and symbols of the target culture.

c. Identify similarities and differences between the target and home cultures.

d. Describe tangible products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and etiquette from the target culture.

b. Observe and analyze patterns of behavior typical of the target culture.

c. Draw conclusions about target culture values based on authentic materials.

[WLAN] WILP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Engage in conversation demonstrating culturally respectful behavior.

b. Identify and research an area of interest in the target culture.

c. Participate in age-appropriate cultural practices such as games, sports, and entertainment.

[WLAN] WIHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Connect perspectives to associated products and practices.

b. Adapt language and behavior to the culture of the audience.

c. Analyze connections among products, practices, and perspectives based on research on a topic of interest.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 5 :

5) Identify products of the target cultures.

a. Recognize arts, crafts or graphic representations of the target culture.

b. Identify the cultural elements found in music and short video clips.

c. Listen to, read, and identify the products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 9 :

9) Identify products, practices, and perspectives of the target culture and the native culture.

a. Identify daily routines in the target culture and the native culture.

b. Identify celebrations in the target culture and the native culture.

c. Identify games, stories, songs, and rhymes from the native culture and those from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL2 (7-12) 5 :

5) Identify perspectives through products of the target cultures.

a. Describe products of the target culture.

b. Describe arts, crafts, or graphic representations of the target culture.

c. Describe the cultural elements found in music and short video clips.

d. Listen to, read, and describe the products in a variety of texts.

This printable features a blank calavera / sugar skull for students to decorate. It offers an easy addition to any díá de los muertos (Day of the Dead) culture lesson and connects students with an important product found within traditional Mexican culture. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and oral expressions.

b. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

Examples: Christmas, Carnival

c. Identify children's songs, poetry and rhymes from the target culture.

d. Observe and imitate simple patterns of behavior.

Examples: Table manners, greetings

[WLAN] WNLP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Foster a student-centered learning process by creating can-do statements with the help of their teachers.
Collect evidence to demonstrate achievement of goals such as self-assessment checklists, portfolios.
Perform for school or community celebrations.
Identify places in the community where the target language is used.
Listen to music and sing songs from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Name practices observed in festivals, holidays, or daily life.

b. Identify landmarks and symbols of the target culture.

c. Identify similarities and differences between the target and home cultures.

d. Describe tangible products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WNMP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Interact with speakers of the target language.
Attend or use media to view cultural events in the target culture.
Consider realistic and responsible use of media to further target language learning.

[WLAN] WNHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Use appropriate gestures and etiquette from the target culture.

b. Observe and analyze patterns of behavior typical of the target culture.

c. Draw conclusions about target culture values based on authentic materials.

[WLAN] WILP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Engage in conversation demonstrating culturally respectful behavior.

b. Identify and research an area of interest in the target culture.

c. Participate in age-appropriate cultural practices such as games, sports, and entertainment.

[WLAN] WILP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Travel (real or virtual) to museums to enhance cultural understanding.
Prepare a group performance for a school or community celebration.
Participate in world language club activities that benefit the school or community.
Draw from previously learned material to chart a path of forward progress.
Analyze reasons for success and failure and consider future actions.

[WLAN] WIMP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Role-play culturally appropriate interactions in a variety of daily activities.

b. Use culturally appropriate verbal and nonverbal behavior among peers or mixed groups.

c. Explore, analyze, and present the how and why of common cultural practices and perspectives.

[WLAN] WIHP (0-8) 4 :

4) Investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the target cultures.

a. Connect perspectives to associated products and practices.

b. Adapt language and behavior to the culture of the audience.

c. Analyze connections among products, practices, and perspectives based on research on a topic of interest.

[WLAN] WIHP (0-8) 8 :

8) Acquire the ability to interact in the target culture beyond the classroom and set goals for life- long learning.

Examples: Seek out authentic materials in the target culture related to student interest.
Play games or sports from the culture.
Complete Web Quests and report on a cultural event.
Reflect upon student's personal investment in the target language.
Consider tangible uses outside the classroom for learned material in the target language.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 4 :

4) Identify practices of the target cultures.

a. Use basic appropriate gestures in common interactions.

b. Identify behaviors in a variety of environments.

c. Identify typical activities, events, and celebrations of the target cultures.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 5 :

5) Identify products of the target cultures.

a. Recognize arts, crafts or graphic representations of the target culture.

b. Identify the cultural elements found in music and short video clips.

c. Listen to, read, and identify the products from the target culture.

[WLAN] WL1 (7-12) 11 :

11) Identify opportunities to use the target language beyond the classroom environment.

a. Plan real or imaginary travel.

b. Attend or view cultural events in person or virtually.

This interactive German activity teaches students how to perform a traditional German clap dance. Videos of children performing the dances are provided along with written instructions for the dance. The included lesson plan encourages students to participate in the dance while listening to culturally appropriate music. While learning to present the dances students are introduced to products (music) and practices (dance) of the German culture. The lesson is geared toward upper elementary and middle school but could be adapted for older students who would enjoy the interactive experience as well.