American Elements Adapted for Chinese Classrooms

OFLTA Spring Conference ProgramZhang Hong

zhanghong591114@gmail.com

Overview PurposePrinciplesApplicationsAdaptationReflection

Purpose & Principles

1. Access prior knowledge.

2. Make learning more relevant.

3. Create a student-centered class.

4. Culture connection and mutual respect.

ApplicationSongs

• Translate American songs directly:

Eg: Hello; Mary had a Little Lamb; We Wish You a Merry Christmas; Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes, etc

• Use familiar melody and rhythm:

Eg: The ABCs; Twinkle Twinkle Little Star; Brother John; Oh My Darling Clementine

ApplicationClass activities

• Simon Says; Flyswatter, Jeopardy,

Tic-Tac-Toe, etc

• Guesstures & its adaptation.

Guesstures is an American game based on “Charades” but played at a faster pace.

This Chinese adaptation ---“ 猜手势” is a fun way to review vocabulary.

It can enrich students of different learning styles.

Guesstures 猜手势

Materials:A Guessture device & home-made cards with vocabulary words.Object:Students act out words in the cards for their teammates to guess. No talking, sign language or sound effects. The team to guess the most acted-out words is the winner.Game Rules: ( Handout)

猜 手 势

AdaptationAdaptation Without the Guessture device, any timing device will

work.

For those who don’t feel comfortable to act, “Pictionary” is a great alternative.

For advanced learners, “Taboo” is a good adaptation.

Reflections

Establish yourself as a final judge to avoid

argument;

Allow everybody opportunities by assigning performance order;

Enforce clearly stated guidelines for the games.