Tuesday, August 8, 2017

OLE! OLE! OLE!

It's still not too late to sign up for my webinar tomorrow evening!
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7155395557991265793

Several teachers have asked if I had materials for dual language programs. I'm so glad you asked! Music is the universal language for all children and my "Ole! Ole! Ole!" CD can provide a bridge for learning both languages. (I sing in English and a teacher from Mexico sings in Spanish.) There are songs for routines, literacy, math, and just for FUN!
                                      
"Hello Friend," "Days of the Week," "The Rules Rap," "Five Little Monkeys," "Tooty Ta," and "Special Me" are just a few of the songs you will find.  Go to drjean.org to order this CD.

Sign Language

Sign language can be a powerful "hook" to put things in the brain.  As you introduce vocabulary, demonstrate the word in sign language.  (aslpro.com has a dictionary with videos to help you.)
*I'd love to see someone do a graduate research project on this!!


Kids are kids no matter what language they speak, and they all enjoy learning with games.

I Spy!
This is an old game, but it could easily be played using words for colors and shapes of a second language.
Example: I spy something rojo!

Simon Says
Change the words of Simon Says to reinforce body parts.
Example: Simons says put your hands on your cabeza.

Musical Words
Write vocabulary words on paper plates and place them on the floor. (You might want to write the word in Spanish in red on one side and the word in English in blue on the opposite side.) Play some catchy music and tell the children to dance around. When the music stops, the children find a plate and pick it up. The children silently read their word and translate it. The teacher randomly points to several children to identify their word and tell what it means. The children then put the plates on the floor and the dancing continues.
                 
Sock Match
Cut matching socks out of construction paper. Write a word in English on one sock and the Spanish translation on another sock. Mix the socks up in a bag. Children find the matching socks and clothespin them together.
                                
Flippers
Cut 4” circles out of poster board or fun foam. Write the word in Spanish on one side and the English translation on the other side. Children will need a pancake turner/spatula to play the game. Spread the circles on the table. Children read the word and translate. Then they flip over the circle to check their response on the back.

                                               
Puzzlers
Cut paper plates into thirds. Write a word in English on one third. Write the word in Spanish on another section. Draw a picture clue in the third section. Mix up pieces. Children put the puzzles together and read the words.
*Hint! You could use puzzlers for number words, color words, animals, foods, etc
                                                                              
As with anything, the more active the children are, the more likely they will learn. Sing, move, play and have fun!