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Second Languages and Intercultural Council
Languages make an impression for life.
Most people can remember the name of their French teacher or, at the very least, some flavourful French words. The ATA’s Second Languages and Intercultural Council (SLIC) is on a mission to ensure that this continues to happen and that languages continue to be valued. SLIC is doing this by branching out in creative ways—for example, by professionally recording a song, “Languages for Life,” and giving away inflatable beach balls for classroom activities, with the goal of dramatically increasing membership. And the results show. In February of 2000, membership reached 500!
One of SLIC’s first goals was to connect with parents to clear up misconceptions about second language learning and give them a glimpse of dynamic second language programs in action. Sometimes parents worry that their children’s English skills will be compromised by these programs. We need to dispel this myth, because, in fact, not only do children who learn a second language excel in their first language, but they become more flexible and creative thinkers. In fact, language acquisition may actually delay the onset of diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, knowing a second language is a considerable asset in a society where people from all over the world interact regularly and where people are travelling more than ever before. Therefore, among the series of videos that SLIC has produced is one entitled Dear Parents; it features Alberta classrooms and teachers.
SLIC also revisited how it supports professional development. Two years ago, SLIC began offering bursaries for second language teachers pursuing graduate courses. SLIC continues to publish a newsletter, Zephyr, and an academic journal, Notos, and to host an annual conference. Last year’s conference focused on the art of listening, a critical skill when one considers that adults spend between 40 and 50 per cent of their communication time listening. This year’s conference will be held in Canmore, October 26 and 27.
SLIC recognizes that teachers need to keep their pedagogical and language skills current. Therefore, our Special Interest Groups (SIGs) for specific languages offer professional development sessions. In recent years, SLIC has offered networking sessions for Spanish teachers, a book study for Japanese teachers and an educational technology session for Ukrainian teachers. This year, the Alberta Teachers of French will host two FSL unConferences, one at Pigeon Lake, May 3 and 4, and one at Bragg Creek, September 20 and 21. These unConferences are not preplanned; rather, the topics are developed the day of the event in response to teacher interest and expertise. A perfect excuse to practise French, network and get away for the day.
If you have always wanted to learn a language but have never achieved your dream, what are you waiting for? With today’s technology, it has never been easier to fit in language lessons while on the go. It can be as simple as downloading a free Spanish podcast from iTunes or Google Play and listening to it while driving to work. There are even flashcard apps that will auto-advance Spanish words—they are fantástico for learning while travelling or jogging. For an authentic language experience, you can connect with speakers from around the world at sites such as www.busuu.com.
It is surprising how many teachers speak a second language. If you are plurilingual, tell students about your language experiences and about how a second language has served you in good stead (include the funny times when you tripped up!). The more language models students have, the more they will see how valuable and universal languages are.
SLIC would love to see a future where all children learn a second or third language, where it is second nature to be plurilingual. An article in Multilingual Living Magazine suggests that eventually there may be more children who grow up learning two or more languages than children who learn only one. SLIC is advocating that Alberta Education reconsider its second language mandate so that the province doesn’t cut back on the very things that stand to give our children maximum advantage in their future.
We encourage teachers of all grades and in all areas of expertise to embrace second languages, both personally and professionally. Become a champion of languages; your French teacher would be proud of you. To learn more about the work of our council or to become a member, visit us at www.slic.teachers.ab.ca. Brought to you by teachers who speak the Language of the Future.
