Interpersonal Mode

Some teachers have reported difficulty assessing interpersonal performances with novice level learners. Since 2000, we have experimented with many impromptu assessments where students interact with another speaker to construct meaning. Here are some ideas for creating interpersonal assessments.

Identify pictures of characters using single words
With a partner order a series of pictures to tell the story
Milling Activity: Students obtain information by interviewing other students with conversation prompters.
Act out a scene involving conversation with a partner
Have a conversation with another student in the role of characters.
Have a conversation with your partner to explain your opinion a story
Use an illustration as a prompt for talking with a partner
The class interviews one student who responds in character
Use sentence strips to sequence the story with a partner, discussing the choice with reacting language
Introduce a new character through an impromptu conversation.
Complete story map with partner: Identify when, where, characters, problem, resolution
Add another impromptu scene that involves conversation to the folktale
Negotiate in the target language with group to decide the characters and plot points of a new story
Continue a Conversation from the story
Have an impromptu conversation with a partner that takes place in a target language vacation destination

Although novice and intermediate learners will probably not be able to converse on random topics, they are able to use functional chunks of language on known topics. We designed our rubrics based on what they can do. For a complete listing of what to expect in K-12 learners consult ACTFL's Performance Guidelines.

Templates of Interpersonal Tasks

Even novice level learners can engage in impromptu interpersonal conversations with a little help. These templates all include function chunks of language that students can use to express their opinions and obtain information. The templates are in editable word format so that you can tailor them to your needs. Please email requests for other templates to: paris@languageshaping.com.

Information gap Templates
Who can...? Milling activity template in French, Spanish and English
Tasting Prompters for an interpersonal beverage tasting in French and Spanish

Classroom Expressions in French

Paris uses these classroom expressions to avoid speaking English in class. With just a little direct teaching at the beginning of the school year, students are able to communicate their basic needs, questions and reactions in French. The letter-sized flashcards can be printed out and posted on the classroom wall.

Getting the teacher's attention
Following the teacher's directions
Asking permission
When a problem arises
The meanings of words
Reacting to events
Rules or How to Succeed in French Class
Smaller Rule List in Microsoft Publisher format to edit as necessary