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Day 1
Interactive Program Home
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
Click on the grey navigation bar to access ??? When on the schedule slides, Click on the day/time to view sessions. Click on presenter pictures to see session details including location, intended audience, session language, and session evaluation link.
8:30 - 9:20
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Day 1
Day 1 7:00am - 8:00am
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
8:30 - 9:20
Check in
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
Get badge
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
COLOR tickets: Use for the raffle. Check out items on the raffle page. Put first and LAST name on back - must be present to win - drawing on Day 2 at (time)
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
COLOR tickets: COLOR: put first and LAST name on back - must be present to win - drawing on Day 2 at (time)
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Day 1
Day 1 8:00am - 8:30am
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
8:30 - 9:20
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Day 1
Day 1 8:00am - 8:30am
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
8:30 - 9:20
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Friday
Saturday
Friday - Round 1 8:30 - 9:20
But first... coffee and exhibits 8:00 - 8:30
Friday - Round 2 9:45 - 10:30
Friday Plenary, Awards 10:45 - 12:00
Friday...Let's Eat! 12:00 - 1:30
Friday - Round 3 1:30 - 2:20
Friday - Round 4 2:45 - 3:35
Friday - Round 5 3:45 - 4:30
Friday Texas-Sized Mixer 4:45 - 6:00
Saturday Round 1 8:30 - 9:20
But first... coffee and exhibits 8:00 - 8:30
Saturday JTAT
Saturday Round 2 9:30 - 10:20
Saturday Brunch, Business Meeting, Exhibits 10:20 - 11:20
Saturday Round 3 11:30 - 12:10
Saturday đRAffleđ 1:15
Saturday Round 4 12:20 - 1:10
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Each conference registrant will receive ONE drink ticket for a free drink at the Texas-Sized Mixer!
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
map page
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Morning Session Evaluation
Afternoon Session Evaluation
Saturday
Friday
Schedule
32" TV
Map
Raffle
Scavenger Hunt
Sponsors
TFLA Board
Regional Coordinators
1 Year Membership
Schedule
Map
Raffle
Scavenger Hunt
Sponsors
TFLA Board
Regional Coordinators
Designing Interactive OERs for Language Learning: Insights from a Chinese eBook Project
Holly Shi
Session Language
Intended Audience
Language Open Educational Resources (OERs) are powerful tools for language teaching and learning, offering cost savings, up-to-date content, and interactive features. This session presents the development of an interactive OER eBook for intermediate Chinese learners, highlighting key steps, tools, and challenges. It provides practical insights into pedagogical and technical design. Participants will leave with ideas and strategies to create their own OERs to enhance language learning and student engagement.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Daily Bullet Journals - Sparking Curiosity, SEL and Proficiency Skills Through Authentic Media
Katja Bishop
Session Language
Intended Audience
Discover how students use bullet journals and authentic newspaper headlines to build language skills. Each day, learners analyze an authentic and current newspaper screenshot in the target language, collaborate to interpret meaning, translate, and illustrate their understanding. This engaging, low-prep routine boosts vocabulary, reading skills, and cultural awareness through creative, student-centered exploration.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Be the winner of one of TWO $50 giftcards...
Donated by:
Full Class Engagement
Session Language
Intended Audience
Kristina Harsey
In this session, we will gain resources to support full student engagement and de-escalation strategies in the classroom. So that we can better motivate students and provide a positive learning environment for all learners. We will come away with 1 or more activities to build on for our classroom, and 1 or more positive strategies to de-escalate/pro-actively prevent problem behaviors.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
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Data without Tears: Confusion to Confidence
Debbie Callihan-Dingle
Session Language
Intended Audience
Data in education is here to stay! While sometimes it can be overwhelming, it doesnât have to be scary or lead to tears! This interactive session will include how to interpret and respond to data that we have at our fingertips! Participants will leave ready to conquer the data world and impress their âcore contentâ colleagues!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
SOCALLT Showcase: Texas-Sized Language Learning Technologies
Louise Stoehr, Angel Ledesma, Hajime Kumahata
Session Language
Intended Audience
This session demonstrates how educators can integrate Open Educational Resources, Virtual Reality, generative AI, and language learning applications to create authentic, immersive experiences that enhance communicative competence. Grounded in five ACTFL Core Practices, presenters share hands-on strategies for designing communicative tasks, providing AI-enhanced and other feedback, and maximizing target language use through accessible, low-cost technological tools.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Planning for the IPA cycle
Session Language
Intended Audience
Rachel Preston
SI will provide a model of how to integrate the three modes of communication into your routines daily, weekly, and throughout a unit, with examples from French 1-4 and AP Language and Culture courses. The presentation will be conducted primarily in English though examples will be provided in French.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Intersection of culture and language education
Shizuka Tatsuzawa, Yuki Waugh, & Naoko Ozaki
Our roundtable introduces the activities and events at our Universities and discusses the importance of the intersection of culture and language education. My presentation shows the importance of cultural events outside the classroom to language acquisition and explains how to organize successful cultural events. This presentation exhibits hands-on activities and events for language learners outside theclassroom. In recent years, foreign language programs have suffered from low student enrollment which jeopardizes the ability to maintain our language courses. To meet these challenges, we must find ways to ensure enrollment and continuation in our language courses. Implementing language and culture outside the traditional classroom to improve language learning and cultural understanding, involves developing various real-world approaches and experiences. Through events and activities outside the classroom, students can use the language for enjoyment,
Session Evaluation: Click here
ĂXITOS DE LA SOCIEDAD HONORARIA HISPĂNICA - ÂĄCOMPARTAMOS!
Session Language
Intended Audience
Milybett Llanos-Gremillion
Members of Sociedad Honoraria HispĂĄnica receive numerous benefits, including cultural enrichment, leadership development, and academic recognition. Activities and events help deepen their understanding of Hispanic culture, build valuable skills for the future, and find a sense of belonging and connections with like-minded peers. Joining opens doors for personal growth, networking, and academic success. Learn how to start a chapter on your campus and keep it active through local and national activities.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Advocating at the Texas Capitol
Session Language
Intended Audience
Rachel Preston
I will guide participants through steps to advocate to members of the Texas Legislature, including providing some simple scripts for contacting legislative offices and a walkthrough of capitol.texas.gov and My Texas Legislature Online (TLO) site to find out information on their own representatives at the state level and members of committees relevant to their cause for advocacy. I will also provide information regarding testifying before Texas House and Senate committees if desired by participants.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Incorporating Free Tech Tools for All Language Domains
Ana Segulin
Session Language
Intended Audience
We will boost your language instruction without breaking the bank! We'll explore free tech resources to help you create engaging activities for all language domains. From interactive games and video platforms to collaborative writing tools and authentic audio resources, you'll discover practical ways to enhance your lessons and empower your students. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and innovative ideas to transform your world language classroom!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Part 2: Think you can just walk in and speak the language? Of course you can!
Megan Whalon
Session Language
Intended Audience
This session will empower participants to use more target language in their classes by giving them concrete strategies to increase their use of the target language while supporting their students. Participants will experience a lesson in 90% target language that they can adapt for their classroom. Participants will leave with strategies to use more target language in their classrooms and build all their students' confidence starting at the novice level.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
1 Year to
Wayside is proud to offer a special raffle prize: a one-year subscription to Nualang for one teacher and up to 150 studentsâa $499 value! Nualang is a fun and engaging platform that helps students practice conversing in the target language in a low-stress environment. It features chatty little helpers called Nualas, who provide real-time feedback and support learners as they develop meaningful language skills. With Nualang, teachers can easily create or adapt a range of courses and activities that differentiate for each learnerâs skill level. Empower your classroom with interactive language learning that builds confidence and prepares students for real-world conversations. I will send a cover letter with a description of the prize, a certificate to give the winner which includes instructions on how to redeem the prize.
Donated by
AATF North Texas & Texas French Symposium: Resources for French Teachers (2:45-4:30PM)
Michel Nkwocha & Elizabeth Willcutt
Session Language
Session Location
Session Eval
From Commercial to OER Textbooks in Japanese Language Education: Applying the 5Rs Framework
Chikako Cooke
Open Educational Resources (OER) have transformed education by offering convenience and equitable access. While institutions promote a shift from commercial textbooks to OER, Japanese language education still relies heavily on commercial materials. Despite some high-quality open- access content, editable-license OERs are scarce. Applying the 5RsâRetain, Revise, Remix, Reuse, Redistributeâcan foster collaboration. Can we build a global community to create and refine such resources?Outline: 1) Understanding OER:Benefits, the 5Rs, and the Distinction Between Open Educational Resources and Open Access 2) Current Norms: Commercial Japanese Textbooks and the State of OER in Japanese Language Education 3) Our OER Initiative: Practical Reports on Development and Implementation 4) Our Vision: Improving and Expanding OER Textbooks to Reflect Current Language Usage and Reduce Studentsâ Financial Burden
Session Evaluation: Click here
Get Students Talking: Daily French Warm-Ups That Work
Session Language
Intended Audience
Anne Pham-Macharia
Looking for effective ways to get your students speaking French from the moment they walk into the classroom? This session will give you a ready-to-use list of engaging warm-up activities designed for all levels, from French 1 through AP and IB. Through open-ended questions, images, and social media prompts, these warm-ups will motivate students to use prior knowledge, sentence starters and scaffolds that lead to more natural, quality conversations en français.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Be the winner of an LTI tote bag with treats from A Box of Dallas plus an LTI travel mug, water bottle, and notebook.
Donated by:
Booth Television
Donated by Lingo
Learn more about Lingco at lingco.io
From Literature to Communication: Strategies for Spanish Acquisition in AP Language and Culture
Session Language
Intended Audience
Dr. Elsa Tancredi
How can literature enhance language acquisition, critical thinking, and communication in AP Spanish? This session explores strategies for using authentic texts in proficiency-based instruction, moving beyond analysis to real-world interaction. Participants will engage in hands-on activities that foster interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational skills, encouraging students to think critically while using Spanish. Attendees will leave with ready-to-implement strategies aligned with ACTFL Core Practices.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Language Learning Beyond Borders
Walter Witt
Session Language
Intended Audience
Discover how AI can elevate learning for all learners. You will prompt free AI tools to create culturally inclusive input, do a lightning bias audit, and facilitate 60-second SEL moves that supercharge teen engagement. Walk away with a ready-to-use activity, an âEquity-Powered AI Checklist,â and clear ties to TEKS-LOTE, ACTFL Core Practices, and the TELL Environment Domain. Tech-curious newbies and seasoned pros welcome. Get ready to move your language classesâand every learnerâbeyond borders. đ
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Honoring the Path to Proficiency in the Gradebook
Ashley Watson-Fears
Session Language
Intended Audience
We all know that students travel the Path to Proficiency at their own pace. Teachers also know that we are required to give students grades. World Language teachers have a unique problem of honoring and celebrating each studentsâ proficiency journey while still giving concrete number grades. In this session, you will learn how one teacher took this task on and have an opportunity to brainstorm and discuss other ways that we can accomplish this.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Listening Exercise On the Loop!: Create Topic Specific Podcast & Questions With AI
Sachiko Fukushige
When it comes to studying for authentic materials, it is difficult to find just the material that covers all you want to go over. Look no further, you can make it yourself, with your own input plus a bit of AI magic. I will share with the audience on how to create a podcast with your input using the available AI tools that are free for use out there. Just bring your laptop and we can make something together in less than 30 minutes.
Session Evaluation: Click here
Beyond the Textbook: Engaging Activities and Strategies for Language Learners.
Session Language
Intended Audience
Ruth Hale
To be effective pedagogues we must engage our students, get them up on their feet and excited about learning a new language. As if in the classroom attendees will be actively participating in the activities presented in this session. From writing relays to Grab and Chat you will be emersed in a whirl wind of language learning.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Say what? Interpretive activities that are active? Meaningful experiences to grow language skills
Session Language
Intended Audience
- Novice/Intermediate level
Imelda Hernandez-Cruz
In this session, we will reflect on the importance of interpretive mode for students to support and develop language skills when providing opportunities to reinforce language and culture already known and acquire new concepts. We will provide examples of activities that will further students proficiency levels by interacting with interpretive materials, the language and each other.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
TPRS 2.0 The Fastest Way to Fluency for All
Julie Smith
Session Language
Intended Audience
Session Description
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
How AI is Revolutionizing Speaking Practice in World Language Education
Session Language
Intended Audience
Ben Altschuler
Providing personalized feedback on world language speaking skills is difficult in traditional classrooms. Many students do not speak enough, struggle to find words, and feel disengaged. AI helps by enabling real-life conversation practice and building student confidence.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Level Up Language Proficiency with Canva!
Session Language
Intended Audience
Priscilla Blanton
Want to create a more language-rich classroom? Want to use more technology to support students in all three modes of communication? Canva is the tool for you! Come learn how to create rich visuals to bring your language to life in your classroom. Create and incorporate videos to immerse your students in the language. Prepare engaging activities to motivate your students to communicate. Canva's features are ideal for the LOTE classroom!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
An Ideal Routine: Integrating Tech Tools with Innovative Practices for Effective Language Teaching
Angel Ledesma
Session Language
Intended Audience
This presentation explores strategies for developing effective daily routines for World Language teachers and students. We'll examine integrating low and high-tech tools to streamline classroom management and automate tasks. Key areas include planning for starting class, the three communication modes, using real classroom anecdotes, and leveraging video game scenes for language instruction to create sustainable, efficient teaching routines.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Estrella de la clase: Providing Comprehensible Input through Student Interviews
Session Language
Intended Audience
Lorraine Starks
In this session, we will gain resources to support full student engagement and de-escalation strategies in the classroom. So that we can better motivate students and provide a positive learning environment for all learners. We will come away with 1 or more activities to build on for our classroom, and 1 or more positive strategies to de-escalate/pro-actively prevent problem behaviors.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Whose Classroom it it Anyway?
Claudia Trevino
Session Language
Intended Audience
Are you finding it challenging to control the dynamics in your classroom? This session will give you unique techniques on how to cool down the climate. Letâs get to know âwhoâ actually walks in your classroom! Itâs easier than you think!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
From Learner Texts to Language Awareness: A Genre-Informed, Asset-Oriented Approach
Session Language
Intended Audience
Bruna Sommer-Farias
This session explores how language teachers can use learner texts and simple corpus tools like Voyant to scaffold authentic, accessible instruction. Grounded in an asset-oriented approach and aligned with high-leverage teaching practices, the presentation highlights strategies for fostering language and genre awareness, making language comprehensible, and promoting proficiency through inductive, text-based tasks.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Travel bag with fun EF items :)
Donated by:
Level-up! Build students' ownership of their performance progress
Session Language
Intended Audience
Alison Hayter and Carmen Van Cleave
Getting students to apply feedback is not an easy prospect and can be frustrating. This session will address how to teach students to learn about proficiency levels and to interpret the rubrics so that they can level up and understand what it takes to improve their own performance.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Your Dump Is Fire: Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Supporting Middle School AP Spanish Students
Session Language
Intended Audience
- Elementary, Secondary, Post Secondary
Applicable Languages
- Middle School AP teachers and collaborators
Dr. Annie Rivera
Middle School AP Spanish students have unique language experiences, often shaped by elementary immersion programs. We all know that you canât teach 13 year old AP students like you do high schoolers. But whoâs talking about it? We will! Iâll share insights that Iâve gained from them while wearing the hats of teacher, administrator, and mom. Iâll spill the tea on practical strategies, tips, and tools. Come find out why these four teen words improved my instructional effectiveness âĄïž âYour dump is đ„â.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Evaluating AI Features in EdTech Tools for Japanese-Language Teaching
Aya Okada
EdTech platforms like Canva, Quizizz, Padlet and Genially have recently added AI features sometimes superficiallyâso many teachers arenât sure what they actually do. In this talk, I will outline how each tool integrates AI, show concrete examples in Japaneseâlanguage lessons, and present survey results on teachersâ understanding, usage, and pedagogical impact. The goal is to give educators evidenceâbased guidance for adopting AI thoughtfully, rather than chasing hype.
Session Evaluation: Click here
They May B Six, but They can Read!
Session Language
Intended Audience
Yongluan Ye
Learn how to design effective literacy curricula for young foreign language learners using backward design and embedded reading. This presentation highlights scaffolding strategies - like authentic materials, guided reading with leveled texts, vocabulary pre-teaching, semantic mapping, and interactive activities - that build comprehension and confidence. Attendees will explore these strategies firsthand and leave with practical tools for implementing literacy-based instruction in their own classrooms.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Argument Structure and Particle Acquisition in L2 Korean: Effects of Visual Learning Tools
Mina Yeon
Session Language
Intended Audience
This study aims to develop a visual âCase Marking Templateâ to represent Korean verb argument structures and apply it pedagogically. By organizing frequent case patterns into a matrix and using multisensory (visual/tactile) learning, it overcomes the limitations of rote memorization. A pre-post comparison between a group using traditional methods and one using a 3D case matrix will assess its effectiveness. Results will inform future Korean learning models centered on argument structure.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
AATF North Texas & Texas French Symposium: Resources for French Teachers (2:45-4:30PM)
Michel Nkwocha & Elizabeth Willcutt
Session Location
Session Language
Intended Audience
Session Evaluation: Click here
32" Television
Donated by Mango Languages
Learn more about Mango Languages by visiting: https://mangolanguages.com/
The Glows and Grows of Language Data Analysis: Insights for Planning with Purpose
Session Language
Intended Audience
Diana Campos
Join us for an engaging session on "The Glows and Grows of Language Data Analysis: Insights for Planning with Purpose." Discover how to leverage student data to celebrate successes, identify growth areas, and make informed instructional decisions. This session will provide practical strategies for using data to enhance proficiency, drive meaningful interventions, and support student success. Don't miss this opportunity to plan with purpose and make a lasting impact on your studentsâ language journey!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Student Driven Collaboration Stations
Session Language
Intended Audience
Amanda Magruder
Use stations to structure your classroom for unit and semester reviews! Learn how to plan, organize, and manage stations in your classroom so every student is engaged in the target language. Experience station activities that can be adjusted to apply to all spoken and signed languages. Templates and example activities will be available to teachers to customize for their classes.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
AI in Action: Leveraging ChatGPT to Help Create Assessments & Practices in the LOTE Classroom
Jordan Kauffman
Session Language
Intended Audience
Discover how ChatGPT can be a powerful partner in the LOTE classroom to save time, spark creativity, and support student learning. Learn practical ways to use AI to create engaging assessments, differentiated practice, and adaptable materials for all proficiency levels. See examples in multiple languages and leave with ready-to-use strategies to enhance instruction while keeping language learning authentic.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Tailor-Made Teaching: Customizing Language Instruction for Every Learner
Ken Stewart
Session Language
Intended Audience
Just like a perfectly tailored outfit, language instruction should be customized to fit the needs of each learner. This session explores how to craft individualized, proficiency-based lessons using Lingcoâs editable and authentic content. Discover how to weave thematic instruction, cultural connections, and adaptable activities into a seamless learning experience. Learn practical strategies to design lessons that fit your students like a gloveâengaging, rigorous, and tailor-made for success!
Session Location
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Fluency + Fun = 5: Takeaways to improve fluency and make a 5 on AP Exam
Session Language
Intended Audience
Carolyn Bracksieck
In this session teachers will learn and experience strategies and activities that will improve fluency on each part of the AP Language and Culture Exam. Teachers can expect an engaging session that gives strategies for each FRQ/MCQ that enables students to practice and grow their fluency in a fun and engaging way. Teachers will see examples, experience the strategies, and be able to share their ideas.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Be the winner of one of TWO $25 giftcards...
Donated by:
Creating Communications-Based Lesson Plans for World Language Teachers
Session Language
- Consectetur adipiscing elit.
Intended Audience
Anna Matis
Come experience innovative strategies and learn how to create engaging, student-centered, and communication-based lessons in this hands-on session! Participants will receive a template that allows for optimum balance between comprehensible input and low-stress opportunities for output in a meaningful, communicative manner. Leave with tools and interactive strategies to help transform your lessons and motivate every learner, ensuring that all students thrive in your world language classroom.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
A free school-wide semester license of Speakology AI.
More details forthcoming
Finding Joy Beyond the Textbook: Measurable Benefits of Extensive Reading
Session Language
Intended Audience
Risa Ginther
This presentation explores the use of Extensive Reading (ER) in Japanese classes and its impact on student learning. ER allows students to choose their own materials, read extensively, and build intrinsic motivation. The session shares practical steps, engagement strategies, and challenges from classroom experience, along with measurable outcomes like improved reading habits, motivation, cultural knoweldge. Attendees will gain practical ideas and insights into ERâs benefits for language learners.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Extempore in Action: Practical Strategies for Proficiency-Based Language Teaching
Allie Donaldson & Haley Martinez
Session Language
Intended Audience
Curious how Extempore can enhance language learning and assessment? Whether you're a current user, an admin exploring tools, or seeking best practices, this session is for you. Discover how Extempore supports spontaneous speaking, listening, and student interaction. Walk away with sample tasks, classroom-tested ideas, and tips to align with proficiency goals. See how Extempore fits into modern language programs and supports both teaching and program-wide growth.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Your Language Why
Session Evaluation
5 easy LOTE activities to get students speaking
Jordan Kauffman
Session Language
Intended Audience
This presentation highlights five engaging LOTE activities that boost speaking skills and confidence. Taboo teaches circumlocution through word descriptions. Liar! Liar! builds creativity and listening as students detect false statements. Picture Conversations promote descriptive dialogue through image-based discussions. Cultural Articles encourage sharing insights from readings, enhancing comprehension and speaking. Podcasts foster fluency with recorded group conversations.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Travel Scholarship
$500 travel scholarship toward WorldStrides or Explorica by WorldStrides when you begin planning a 2026 or 2027 trip.
Creating Joyful Readers: Implementing Free Voluntary Reading in the Language Acquisition Classroom
Cindy Medina
Session Language
Intended Audience
Discover how Free Voluntary Reading (FVR), also known as Sustained Silent Reading (SSR), can transform your classroom into a community of enthusiastic, self-directed readers. This session will share practical strategies, routines, and success stories from a classroom-based FVR program, highlighting how it supports language acquisition, student agency, and a love for readingâall with minimal prep and maximum impact.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Working smarter with AI-mazing tools
Marie Matos
Session Language
Intended Audience
AI is revolutionizing education and as it continues to reshape the way we teach and learn, itâs essential for educators to leverage its potential in the classroom. In this session, weâll dive into AI platforms like ChatGPT, Magic School and Brisk, exploring how they can enhance your planning, streamline instruction, and create more engaging learning experiences. Learn how to save time, differentiate instruction, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Developing a Can-do Attitude for Growing Proficiency
Session Language
Intended Audience
Mariana Jimenez
In this informative session, participants will explore the transformative power of Can-Do Statements in shaping a proficiency-based language classroom. Can-Do Statements serve as a clear roadmap for both teachers and students, outlining what learners can accomplish at various proficiency levels. This session will dive into practical strategies for integrating these statements into daily instruction, assessment, and feedback to foster a learner-centered environment focused on developing studentsâ language proficiency and interculturality.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Talk Back: AI Conversations and Automated Pronunciation Practice
Session Language
Intended Audience
Louise Stoehr
We demonstrate how educators can integrate AI-powered conversational experiences with automated pronunciation assessment to develop learnersâ speaking proficiency. Grounded in five ACTFL Core Practices, participants learn to design AI scenarios using strategic prompt engineering and implement accessible tools like iSpraak for immediate feedback. This blend of tools enables comprehensive, low-stakes conversation practice that addresses both fluency and accuracy in culturally authentic communicative contexts.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Winterfest Winners: A Teacherâs Guide to the Texas German Contest System
Session Language
Intended Audience
Dee Karl
Never heard of the Texas State German Contest? This workshop introduces Texas German teachers to the structure and opportunities of the three regional competitions and their connection to the state-level contest. Learn how to prepare students for success in academic and cultural events, understand contest rules, and navigate the path from regional participation to state qualification. Ideal for both new and experienced educators aiming to enhance their German programs through these enriching competitions.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Engaging the Learner Beyond the Classroom
Maryam Emami
Session Language
Intended Audience
Extracurricular language activities offer opportunities for practical application of language skills in authentic contexts, for learners looking to improve their language skills beyond the classroom. Among many other benefits, these activities allow students to learn in a fun, non-judgmental environment & facilitate their learning. We will address all these factors that together help create a more enriching, enjoyable, and holistic language learning experience.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
PACE'ing our reading
Marie Matos
Session Language
Intended Audience
Reading enhances comprehension, attention, observation, concentration, reflection/critical thinking, and memory. In our students, it can spark curiosity and nurture imagination, as well as activate inspiration, creativity, and the emergence of ideas. It also provides the opportunity to learn the necessary grammar, spelling and sentence structure in a more organic way, in other words: We are PACE'ing our reading.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
From Silent to Speaking: Getting Students Talking in the TL Every Day
Session Language
Intended Audience
Tito Ortega
Do your students freeze when asked to speak in the target language? This session provides concrete strategies to create a classroom where students want to speak and are expected to 90% of the time. Learn how to build confidence, set expectations, and create a safe, consistent environment that prioritizes speaking. Walk away with ready-to-use routines and resources to make your TL classroom successful and sustainable.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Cultivating Vision in the World Language Classroom
Ashli Sambaluk
Session Language
Intended Audience
How can we help students see themselves as confident, capable users of the language they're learning? This session explores practical strategies for cultivating "vision"âa motivating sense of future selfâin the world language classroom. Discover engaging, research-informed activities that build confidence, promote meaningful communication, and empower students to imagine real-world roles for their language skills.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Conquistando el Español: Estrategias Claves para el aprendizaje Eficaz
Ana Cecilia Mewa
Session Language
Intended Audience
Come and learn how to conquer the Spanish language through efficient strategies based on the LOTE teks and under the fundamental five research. These strategies had helped my students score high in the AP exam, but you can use them in any upper level (from two honors to four AP) let your students learn, engage in speaking the language since day 1 and have fun at the same time. Let the rigor of your lessons shine bright on a daily basis in your class.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
MĂĄs que un idioma: Diseño intencional de currĂculo para estudiantes de herencia hispana
Nathan Henderson
Session Language
Intended Audience
- Teachers of Heritage/Native Spanish students
Los estudiantes de herencia traen consigo una riqueza lingĂŒĂstica y cultural al aula, pero ÂżcĂłmo diseñamos un currĂculo que honre sus identidades mientras desarrollan sus habilidades lingĂŒĂsticas? En esta sesiĂłn, se compartirĂĄ el proceso de creaciĂłn de un currĂculo de Español para Estudiantes de Herencia que sea culturalmente relevante, enfocado en la competencia comunicativa y alineado con metas a largo plazo como el Ă©xito en cursos AP y la alfabetizaciĂłn bilingĂŒe. Exploraremos aspectos clave como la identidad, la diferenciaciĂłn de la instrucciĂłn y el uso de recursos autĂ©nticos. Los participantes se llevarĂĄn ideas prĂĄcticas y estĂĄn invitados a hacer preguntas sobre cĂłmo iniciar o fortalecer sus propios programas para estudiantes de herencia.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Year TFLA membership
1 calendar year membership
Donated by Idioma Education and Consulting Learn more about Idioma Education and Consulting by visiting: http://idiomaconsulting.com/
Also available to you: Earn graduate credit
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Progressing the Novice Learner up the Proficiency Scale
Session Language
Intended Audience
Jennifer Melgar
Boost student success with dynamic strategies to build proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication. Experience adaptable, hands-on activities and take away practical resources to move students up through the proficiency scale. Perfect for any modern language classroom!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Inspiring Language Use Through Play
Bonnie Lehman
Session Language
Intended Audience
Discover practical, low-prep games that encourage students to develop expressive and receptive skills in the target language. This session offers hands-on ideas to boost engagement and foster authentic communication, helping learners build confidence and fluencyâall through play. Leave with ready-to-use activities and fresh inspiration for your classroom!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Language in Action
Session Language
Intended Audience
Maria Cruz
Join us for an engaging presentation that explores best practices in world language education. Discover practical strategies to successfully bridge classroom learning with real-world application, empowering students to thrive beyond the school environment. Educators will gain practical, ready-to-implement techniques to elevate their teaching and foster a dynamic learning environment.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Speak Up! Energize Your Classroom with Conversation Strategies for Language Success
Session Language
Intended Audience
Christina Sizemore
Unlock the power of conversation in your world language classroom! Join us to explore dynamic strategies that will boost student engagement and language development. Walk away with practical tools from the book "7 Steps to a Language Rich World Language Classroom" to create a more interactive, fun, and effective learning environment where every student thrives. Donât miss this opportunity to transform how your students speak, connect, and grow in language!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Techniques to Activate verbal and visual memories and develop spiral learning
Jesus Vieitez-Perez & Gabino Andres Cienfuegos
Session Language
Intended Audience
Effective learning is not meaningless forgettable learning, but an active and cooperative learning process where students are capable of setting up their own learning goals and expectations. When students take the lead of their own learning process, long-term memory is successfully activated, so instruction becomes an essential component of the cognitive development of the students. Hence the importance of developing spiral learning across the curriculum.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
The Power of Compelling Guiding Questions
Session Language
Intended Audience
James Ayers
What if every lesson you taught sparked curiosity, invited authentic communication, and kept students eager to participate? Compelling Guiding Questions (CGQs) are the key. These questions- engaging, open-ended, and designed to connect to studentsâ lives- create classrooms where communication thrives. Join us as we will explore what makes a guiding question compelling and how they transform the classroom into a communicative experience. Participants will see how CGQs can shape daily lessons as we analyze examples, design our own CGQs, and discuss strategies to adapt them to different proficiency levels.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
From Page to Proficiency: Strategies for Using Leveled Readers in the Elementary Spanish Classroom
Session Language
Intended Audience
Margaret Emily Meador, VerĂłnica Echarte, and Rebecca Jobe
Leveled readers can be a powerful tool for promoting second language acquisition in elementary classrooms. In this session, a team of experienced Spanish teachers will share engaging, literacy-based strategies for using novels with elementary grades. Participants will leave with practical ideas for games, movement-based activities, and comprehension assessmentsâall grounded in the ACTFL Core Practices.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Supporting Studentsâ Journey in Japanese Learning
Tomoko Baker & Yuka Kato
Language education aims not only to help students acquire language skills but also to foster their growth as lifelong language learners. What factors discourage Japanese language learners as they progress from middle school to high school, from Japanese 2 to 3, from high school to university, and from university to adult education? What kind of support can make it easier for students to continue their Japanese learning? Let's explore together how K-12 and higher education can support students' lifelong Japanese Language journey.
Session Evaluation: Click here
Part 1: Think you can just walk in and speak the language? Of course you can!
Megan Whalon
Session Language
Intended Audience
This session will empower participants to use more target language in their classes by giving them concrete strategies to increase their use of the target language while supporting their students. Participants will experience a lesson in 90% target language that they can adapt for their classroom. Participants will leave with strategies to use more target language in their classrooms and build all their students' confidence starting at the novice level.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
$50 Amazon gift card
Donated by:
Moving Forward Together: Unified Efforts to Further Language Education in Texas
Nick Gossett
Session Language
Intended Audience
This presentation will provide information on the Texas Joint Committee on Language (TJCL). The TJCL is a group of K12 administrators, higher ed faculty, and language industry professionals. The primary objective of the TJCL is to break down the unintentional silos that currently exist between K12 and Higher Ed language programs. We recognize that these two sectors often operate independently, and the TJCL aims to bridge the gap, fostering collaboration among educators, administrators, and other stakeholders with the goal of furthering language education in the state of Texas. This presentation will talk about the ongoing work of this group and ways you can get involved!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Integrating Culture into Korean Instruction: A Report Based on Student Satisfaction Outcomes
Session Language
Intended Audience
Mina Yeon
This presentation outlines a semester-long cultural project embedded into beginner and intermediate Korean courses through a partnership with a university Korean Student Association. Survey results and student-created materials indicate higher cultural understanding, increased learning satisfaction, and evidence of incidental vocabulary acquisition. We will share a step-by-step framework for incorporating cultural learning into language instruction, as well as its advantages and challenges.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Purposeful Writing: Elevating Student Voice with Talk, Read, Talk, Write in WL Classrooms
Session Language
Intended Audience
Mariacarmen Corvison
Experience how Talk, Read, Talk, Write (TRTW) transforms everyday lessons into meaningful opportunities for communication and writing in the target language. Learn how to spark ideas through conversation, explore a purposeful text, scaffold peer interaction, and guide students to write with clarity and voice. Grounded in high-leverage practices and aligned to TEKS, this session offers ready-to-use strategies to help students grow as confident, proficient writers.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Your Classroom Is the Gateway to Global Influence: Discovering Francophone Africa
Session Language
Intended Audience
Ashli Sambaluk
The French language is more than a tool for communication; it's a bridge to global opportunity. With over half of the worldâs French speakers projected to live in Africa by 2050, Francophone Africa is emerging as a dynamic center of cultural, economic, and diplomatic influence. This presentation offers teachers a suite of free activities designed to introduce students to the diversity, vibrancy, and global relevance of Francophone Africa thanks to a Fulbright-Hayes funded project undertaken by the AATF.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Exploring AI Tools in Japanese Language Teaching and Learning
Yuko Prefume,Yoshiko Fujii, Makoto Negishi
As technology keeps evolving, this session is designed for Japanese language educators at every stage, from those excited to try out new AI tools to those still exploring how generative AI might enhance teaching practices. Three presenters will share hands-on experiences with ChatGPT, similar platforms, and emerging AI tools, offering practical ideas for interactive language practice and personalized learning.The session will also highlight how these technologies can serve as assistive tools, streamlining routine tasks and saving teachers precious time to focus on engaging classroom instruction. More than a presentation, this session is an invitation to open collaboration. Attendees are encouraged to share concerns, exchange ideas, and contribute experiences as key issues such as data privacy, ethical considerations, andkeeping the human connection in education. Participants can join for a relaxed discussion that blends traditional language teaching with innovative technology, offering practical ideas for navigating
Session Evaluation: Click here
How Do Teachers� Listening to the Voices of World Language Educators
Dr. Karla O'Donald
Session Language
Intended Audience
Join our interactive session inspired by the TELL Projectâs âHow do teachersâŠ?â essential questions. Instead of prescribing answers, we listened to world language educators and uncovered practical, uplifting strategies directly from their classrooms. Come hear their voices, gather ready-to-use ideas, and reflect on how teacher-centered conversations can lead to more meaningful and responsive professional growth.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
AATF North Texas & Texas French Symposium: Resources for French Teachers (2:45-4:30PM)
Michel Nkwocha & Elizabeth Willcutt
Session Language
Session Location
One-year license
Donated by:
Introduction to "Yasashii" Japanese Literature from the Intermediate-Low Level
Angela Harris
I will discuss ways to orient a content course on Japanese literature (applicable to other aspects ofJapanese culture) to the language skills and cultural knowledge appropriate to students at the Intermediate Low and Intermediate Mid levels. I hope that this presentation will help provide instructors with resources to teach content-based courses in the target language, involving meaningful conversations about art, literature, and society, even those on topics that are often considered to be beyond the students' level in terms of difficulty.
Session Evaluation: Click here
Fostering Language Proficiency: Reading Comprehension Strategies for World Language Classrooms
Session Language
Intended Audience
Elizabeth Williams
Explore literacy strategies that boost reading comprehension in World Language classrooms from novice to advanced levels. Learn practical pre-reading, while-reading, and post-reading techniques that support vertical alignment and are adaptable across all languages and content areas. While presented by an AP Spanish Language & Culture teacher, the session draws on collaboration with educators, literacy specialists, and students from early childhood to university settings.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Session Title
Speaker(s)
Session Language
- English/Spanish/French/Japanese/Korean
Intended Audience
- Elementary, Secondary, Post Secondary
Session Location
Session descriptions
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Transcript
Welcome to AFC 2027!
START!
bit.ly/AFC25online
Day 1
Interactive Program Home
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
Click on the grey navigation bar to access ??? When on the schedule slides, Click on the day/time to view sessions. Click on presenter pictures to see session details including location, intended audience, session language, and session evaluation link.
8:30 - 9:20
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Day 1
Day 1 7:00am - 8:00am
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
8:30 - 9:20
Check in
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
Get badge
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
COLOR tickets: Use for the raffle. Check out items on the raffle page. Put first and LAST name on back - must be present to win - drawing on Day 2 at (time)
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
COLOR tickets: COLOR: put first and LAST name on back - must be present to win - drawing on Day 2 at (time)
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Day 1
Day 1 8:00am - 8:30am
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
8:30 - 9:20
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Day 1
Day 1 8:00am - 8:30am
Schedule
7:00 - 8:00
8:00 - 8:30
Map
8:30 - 9:20
9:40 - 10:30
Raffle
10:45 - 12:00
12:00 - 1:30
1:30 - 2:20
Scavenger Hunt
2:45 - 3:35
3:45 - 4:35
4:45 - 6:00
Sponsors
Day 2
7:00 - 8:00
TFLA Board
8:00 - 8:30
8:30 - 9:20
Regional Coordinators
9:30 - 10:20
10:20 - 11:20
11:30 - 12:10
12:20 - 1:10
1:15 - 1:30
Friday
Saturday
Friday - Round 1 8:30 - 9:20
But first... coffee and exhibits 8:00 - 8:30
Friday - Round 2 9:45 - 10:30
Friday Plenary, Awards 10:45 - 12:00
Friday...Let's Eat! 12:00 - 1:30
Friday - Round 3 1:30 - 2:20
Friday - Round 4 2:45 - 3:35
Friday - Round 5 3:45 - 4:30
Friday Texas-Sized Mixer 4:45 - 6:00
Saturday Round 1 8:30 - 9:20
But first... coffee and exhibits 8:00 - 8:30
Saturday JTAT
Saturday Round 2 9:30 - 10:20
Saturday Brunch, Business Meeting, Exhibits 10:20 - 11:20
Saturday Round 3 11:30 - 12:10
Saturday đRAffleđ 1:15
Saturday Round 4 12:20 - 1:10
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Each conference registrant will receive ONE drink ticket for a free drink at the Texas-Sized Mixer!
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
map page
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Morning Session Evaluation
Afternoon Session Evaluation
Saturday
Friday
Schedule
32" TV
Map
Raffle
Scavenger Hunt
Sponsors
TFLA Board
Regional Coordinators
1 Year Membership
Schedule
Map
Raffle
Scavenger Hunt
Sponsors
TFLA Board
Regional Coordinators
Designing Interactive OERs for Language Learning: Insights from a Chinese eBook Project
Holly Shi
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceLanguage Open Educational Resources (OERs) are powerful tools for language teaching and learning, offering cost savings, up-to-date content, and interactive features. This session presents the development of an interactive OER eBook for intermediate Chinese learners, highlighting key steps, tools, and challenges. It provides practical insights into pedagogical and technical design. Participants will leave with ideas and strategies to create their own OERs to enhance language learning and student engagement.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Daily Bullet Journals - Sparking Curiosity, SEL and Proficiency Skills Through Authentic Media
Katja Bishop
Session Language
- English ??
Intended AudienceDiscover how students use bullet journals and authentic newspaper headlines to build language skills. Each day, learners analyze an authentic and current newspaper screenshot in the target language, collaborate to interpret meaning, translate, and illustrate their understanding. This engaging, low-prep routine boosts vocabulary, reading skills, and cultural awareness through creative, student-centered exploration.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Be the winner of one of TWO $50 giftcards...
Donated by:
Full Class Engagement
Session Language
- Englsih
Intended AudienceKristina Harsey
In this session, we will gain resources to support full student engagement and de-escalation strategies in the classroom. So that we can better motivate students and provide a positive learning environment for all learners. We will come away with 1 or more activities to build on for our classroom, and 1 or more positive strategies to de-escalate/pro-actively prevent problem behaviors.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
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Data without Tears: Confusion to Confidence
Debbie Callihan-Dingle
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceData in education is here to stay! While sometimes it can be overwhelming, it doesnât have to be scary or lead to tears! This interactive session will include how to interpret and respond to data that we have at our fingertips! Participants will leave ready to conquer the data world and impress their âcore contentâ colleagues!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
SOCALLT Showcase: Texas-Sized Language Learning Technologies
Louise Stoehr, Angel Ledesma, Hajime Kumahata
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis session demonstrates how educators can integrate Open Educational Resources, Virtual Reality, generative AI, and language learning applications to create authentic, immersive experiences that enhance communicative competence. Grounded in five ACTFL Core Practices, presenters share hands-on strategies for designing communicative tasks, providing AI-enhanced and other feedback, and maximizing target language use through accessible, low-cost technological tools.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Planning for the IPA cycle
Session Language
- English/French
Intended AudienceRachel Preston
SI will provide a model of how to integrate the three modes of communication into your routines daily, weekly, and throughout a unit, with examples from French 1-4 and AP Language and Culture courses. The presentation will be conducted primarily in English though examples will be provided in French.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Intersection of culture and language education
Shizuka Tatsuzawa, Yuki Waugh, & Naoko Ozaki
Our roundtable introduces the activities and events at our Universities and discusses the importance of the intersection of culture and language education. My presentation shows the importance of cultural events outside the classroom to language acquisition and explains how to organize successful cultural events. This presentation exhibits hands-on activities and events for language learners outside theclassroom. In recent years, foreign language programs have suffered from low student enrollment which jeopardizes the ability to maintain our language courses. To meet these challenges, we must find ways to ensure enrollment and continuation in our language courses. Implementing language and culture outside the traditional classroom to improve language learning and cultural understanding, involves developing various real-world approaches and experiences. Through events and activities outside the classroom, students can use the language for enjoyment,
Session Evaluation: Click here
ĂXITOS DE LA SOCIEDAD HONORARIA HISPĂNICA - ÂĄCOMPARTAMOS!
Session Language
- CEnglish
Intended AudienceMilybett Llanos-Gremillion
Members of Sociedad Honoraria HispĂĄnica receive numerous benefits, including cultural enrichment, leadership development, and academic recognition. Activities and events help deepen their understanding of Hispanic culture, build valuable skills for the future, and find a sense of belonging and connections with like-minded peers. Joining opens doors for personal growth, networking, and academic success. Learn how to start a chapter on your campus and keep it active through local and national activities.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Advocating at the Texas Capitol
Session Language
- Englsih
Intended AudienceRachel Preston
I will guide participants through steps to advocate to members of the Texas Legislature, including providing some simple scripts for contacting legislative offices and a walkthrough of capitol.texas.gov and My Texas Legislature Online (TLO) site to find out information on their own representatives at the state level and members of committees relevant to their cause for advocacy. I will also provide information regarding testifying before Texas House and Senate committees if desired by participants.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Incorporating Free Tech Tools for All Language Domains
Ana Segulin
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceWe will boost your language instruction without breaking the bank! We'll explore free tech resources to help you create engaging activities for all language domains. From interactive games and video platforms to collaborative writing tools and authentic audio resources, you'll discover practical ways to enhance your lessons and empower your students. Walk away with ready-to-use resources and innovative ideas to transform your world language classroom!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Part 2: Think you can just walk in and speak the language? Of course you can!
Megan Whalon
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis session will empower participants to use more target language in their classes by giving them concrete strategies to increase their use of the target language while supporting their students. Participants will experience a lesson in 90% target language that they can adapt for their classroom. Participants will leave with strategies to use more target language in their classrooms and build all their students' confidence starting at the novice level.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
1 Year to
Wayside is proud to offer a special raffle prize: a one-year subscription to Nualang for one teacher and up to 150 studentsâa $499 value! Nualang is a fun and engaging platform that helps students practice conversing in the target language in a low-stress environment. It features chatty little helpers called Nualas, who provide real-time feedback and support learners as they develop meaningful language skills. With Nualang, teachers can easily create or adapt a range of courses and activities that differentiate for each learnerâs skill level. Empower your classroom with interactive language learning that builds confidence and prepares students for real-world conversations. I will send a cover letter with a description of the prize, a certificate to give the winner which includes instructions on how to redeem the prize.
Donated by
AATF North Texas & Texas French Symposium: Resources for French Teachers (2:45-4:30PM)
Michel Nkwocha & Elizabeth Willcutt
Session Language
Session Location
Session Eval
From Commercial to OER Textbooks in Japanese Language Education: Applying the 5Rs Framework
Chikako Cooke
Open Educational Resources (OER) have transformed education by offering convenience and equitable access. While institutions promote a shift from commercial textbooks to OER, Japanese language education still relies heavily on commercial materials. Despite some high-quality open- access content, editable-license OERs are scarce. Applying the 5RsâRetain, Revise, Remix, Reuse, Redistributeâcan foster collaboration. Can we build a global community to create and refine such resources?Outline: 1) Understanding OER:Benefits, the 5Rs, and the Distinction Between Open Educational Resources and Open Access 2) Current Norms: Commercial Japanese Textbooks and the State of OER in Japanese Language Education 3) Our OER Initiative: Practical Reports on Development and Implementation 4) Our Vision: Improving and Expanding OER Textbooks to Reflect Current Language Usage and Reduce Studentsâ Financial Burden
Session Evaluation: Click here
Get Students Talking: Daily French Warm-Ups That Work
Session Language
- French
Intended AudienceAnne Pham-Macharia
Looking for effective ways to get your students speaking French from the moment they walk into the classroom? This session will give you a ready-to-use list of engaging warm-up activities designed for all levels, from French 1 through AP and IB. Through open-ended questions, images, and social media prompts, these warm-ups will motivate students to use prior knowledge, sentence starters and scaffolds that lead to more natural, quality conversations en français.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Be the winner of an LTI tote bag with treats from A Box of Dallas plus an LTI travel mug, water bottle, and notebook.
Donated by:
Booth Television
Donated by Lingo
Learn more about Lingco at lingco.io
From Literature to Communication: Strategies for Spanish Acquisition in AP Language and Culture
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceDr. Elsa Tancredi
How can literature enhance language acquisition, critical thinking, and communication in AP Spanish? This session explores strategies for using authentic texts in proficiency-based instruction, moving beyond analysis to real-world interaction. Participants will engage in hands-on activities that foster interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational skills, encouraging students to think critically while using Spanish. Attendees will leave with ready-to-implement strategies aligned with ACTFL Core Practices.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Language Learning Beyond Borders
Walter Witt
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceDiscover how AI can elevate learning for all learners. You will prompt free AI tools to create culturally inclusive input, do a lightning bias audit, and facilitate 60-second SEL moves that supercharge teen engagement. Walk away with a ready-to-use activity, an âEquity-Powered AI Checklist,â and clear ties to TEKS-LOTE, ACTFL Core Practices, and the TELL Environment Domain. Tech-curious newbies and seasoned pros welcome. Get ready to move your language classesâand every learnerâbeyond borders. đ
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Honoring the Path to Proficiency in the Gradebook
Ashley Watson-Fears
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceWe all know that students travel the Path to Proficiency at their own pace. Teachers also know that we are required to give students grades. World Language teachers have a unique problem of honoring and celebrating each studentsâ proficiency journey while still giving concrete number grades. In this session, you will learn how one teacher took this task on and have an opportunity to brainstorm and discuss other ways that we can accomplish this.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Listening Exercise On the Loop!: Create Topic Specific Podcast & Questions With AI
Sachiko Fukushige
When it comes to studying for authentic materials, it is difficult to find just the material that covers all you want to go over. Look no further, you can make it yourself, with your own input plus a bit of AI magic. I will share with the audience on how to create a podcast with your input using the available AI tools that are free for use out there. Just bring your laptop and we can make something together in less than 30 minutes.
Session Evaluation: Click here
Beyond the Textbook: Engaging Activities and Strategies for Language Learners.
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceRuth Hale
To be effective pedagogues we must engage our students, get them up on their feet and excited about learning a new language. As if in the classroom attendees will be actively participating in the activities presented in this session. From writing relays to Grab and Chat you will be emersed in a whirl wind of language learning.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Say what? Interpretive activities that are active? Meaningful experiences to grow language skills
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceImelda Hernandez-Cruz
In this session, we will reflect on the importance of interpretive mode for students to support and develop language skills when providing opportunities to reinforce language and culture already known and acquire new concepts. We will provide examples of activities that will further students proficiency levels by interacting with interpretive materials, the language and each other.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
TPRS 2.0 The Fastest Way to Fluency for All
Julie Smith
Session Language
- English ??
Intended AudienceSession Description
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
How AI is Revolutionizing Speaking Practice in World Language Education
Session Language
- Englsih
Intended AudienceBen Altschuler
Providing personalized feedback on world language speaking skills is difficult in traditional classrooms. Many students do not speak enough, struggle to find words, and feel disengaged. AI helps by enabling real-life conversation practice and building student confidence.
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
Level Up Language Proficiency with Canva!
Session Language
- English
Intended AudiencePriscilla Blanton
Want to create a more language-rich classroom? Want to use more technology to support students in all three modes of communication? Canva is the tool for you! Come learn how to create rich visuals to bring your language to life in your classroom. Create and incorporate videos to immerse your students in the language. Prepare engaging activities to motivate your students to communicate. Canva's features are ideal for the LOTE classroom!
Session Location
Session Evaluation: Click here
An Ideal Routine: Integrating Tech Tools with Innovative Practices for Effective Language Teaching
Angel Ledesma
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis presentation explores strategies for developing effective daily routines for World Language teachers and students. We'll examine integrating low and high-tech tools to streamline classroom management and automate tasks. Key areas include planning for starting class, the three communication modes, using real classroom anecdotes, and leveraging video game scenes for language instruction to create sustainable, efficient teaching routines.
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Estrella de la clase: Providing Comprehensible Input through Student Interviews
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceLorraine Starks
In this session, we will gain resources to support full student engagement and de-escalation strategies in the classroom. So that we can better motivate students and provide a positive learning environment for all learners. We will come away with 1 or more activities to build on for our classroom, and 1 or more positive strategies to de-escalate/pro-actively prevent problem behaviors.
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Whose Classroom it it Anyway?
Claudia Trevino
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceAre you finding it challenging to control the dynamics in your classroom? This session will give you unique techniques on how to cool down the climate. Letâs get to know âwhoâ actually walks in your classroom! Itâs easier than you think!
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From Learner Texts to Language Awareness: A Genre-Informed, Asset-Oriented Approach
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceBruna Sommer-Farias
This session explores how language teachers can use learner texts and simple corpus tools like Voyant to scaffold authentic, accessible instruction. Grounded in an asset-oriented approach and aligned with high-leverage teaching practices, the presentation highlights strategies for fostering language and genre awareness, making language comprehensible, and promoting proficiency through inductive, text-based tasks.
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Travel bag with fun EF items :)
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Level-up! Build students' ownership of their performance progress
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceAlison Hayter and Carmen Van Cleave
Getting students to apply feedback is not an easy prospect and can be frustrating. This session will address how to teach students to learn about proficiency levels and to interpret the rubrics so that they can level up and understand what it takes to improve their own performance.
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Your Dump Is Fire: Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Supporting Middle School AP Spanish Students
Session Language
- Spanish
Intended Audience- Elementary, Secondary, Post Secondary
Applicable LanguagesDr. Annie Rivera
Middle School AP Spanish students have unique language experiences, often shaped by elementary immersion programs. We all know that you canât teach 13 year old AP students like you do high schoolers. But whoâs talking about it? We will! Iâll share insights that Iâve gained from them while wearing the hats of teacher, administrator, and mom. Iâll spill the tea on practical strategies, tips, and tools. Come find out why these four teen words improved my instructional effectiveness âĄïž âYour dump is đ„â.
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Evaluating AI Features in EdTech Tools for Japanese-Language Teaching
Aya Okada
EdTech platforms like Canva, Quizizz, Padlet and Genially have recently added AI features sometimes superficiallyâso many teachers arenât sure what they actually do. In this talk, I will outline how each tool integrates AI, show concrete examples in Japaneseâlanguage lessons, and present survey results on teachersâ understanding, usage, and pedagogical impact. The goal is to give educators evidenceâbased guidance for adopting AI thoughtfully, rather than chasing hype.
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They May B Six, but They can Read!
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceYongluan Ye
Learn how to design effective literacy curricula for young foreign language learners using backward design and embedded reading. This presentation highlights scaffolding strategies - like authentic materials, guided reading with leveled texts, vocabulary pre-teaching, semantic mapping, and interactive activities - that build comprehension and confidence. Attendees will explore these strategies firsthand and leave with practical tools for implementing literacy-based instruction in their own classrooms.
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Argument Structure and Particle Acquisition in L2 Korean: Effects of Visual Learning Tools
Mina Yeon
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis study aims to develop a visual âCase Marking Templateâ to represent Korean verb argument structures and apply it pedagogically. By organizing frequent case patterns into a matrix and using multisensory (visual/tactile) learning, it overcomes the limitations of rote memorization. A pre-post comparison between a group using traditional methods and one using a 3D case matrix will assess its effectiveness. Results will inform future Korean learning models centered on argument structure.
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AATF North Texas & Texas French Symposium: Resources for French Teachers (2:45-4:30PM)
Michel Nkwocha & Elizabeth Willcutt
Session Location
Session Language
- French
Intended AudienceSession Evaluation: Click here
32" Television
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The Glows and Grows of Language Data Analysis: Insights for Planning with Purpose
Session Language
- English.
Intended AudienceDiana Campos
Join us for an engaging session on "The Glows and Grows of Language Data Analysis: Insights for Planning with Purpose." Discover how to leverage student data to celebrate successes, identify growth areas, and make informed instructional decisions. This session will provide practical strategies for using data to enhance proficiency, drive meaningful interventions, and support student success. Don't miss this opportunity to plan with purpose and make a lasting impact on your studentsâ language journey!
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Student Driven Collaboration Stations
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceAmanda Magruder
Use stations to structure your classroom for unit and semester reviews! Learn how to plan, organize, and manage stations in your classroom so every student is engaged in the target language. Experience station activities that can be adjusted to apply to all spoken and signed languages. Templates and example activities will be available to teachers to customize for their classes.
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AI in Action: Leveraging ChatGPT to Help Create Assessments & Practices in the LOTE Classroom
Jordan Kauffman
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceDiscover how ChatGPT can be a powerful partner in the LOTE classroom to save time, spark creativity, and support student learning. Learn practical ways to use AI to create engaging assessments, differentiated practice, and adaptable materials for all proficiency levels. See examples in multiple languages and leave with ready-to-use strategies to enhance instruction while keeping language learning authentic.
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Tailor-Made Teaching: Customizing Language Instruction for Every Learner
Ken Stewart
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceJust like a perfectly tailored outfit, language instruction should be customized to fit the needs of each learner. This session explores how to craft individualized, proficiency-based lessons using Lingcoâs editable and authentic content. Discover how to weave thematic instruction, cultural connections, and adaptable activities into a seamless learning experience. Learn practical strategies to design lessons that fit your students like a gloveâengaging, rigorous, and tailor-made for success!
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Fluency + Fun = 5: Takeaways to improve fluency and make a 5 on AP Exam
Session Language
- ALL
Intended AudienceCarolyn Bracksieck
In this session teachers will learn and experience strategies and activities that will improve fluency on each part of the AP Language and Culture Exam. Teachers can expect an engaging session that gives strategies for each FRQ/MCQ that enables students to practice and grow their fluency in a fun and engaging way. Teachers will see examples, experience the strategies, and be able to share their ideas.
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Be the winner of one of TWO $25 giftcards...
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Creating Communications-Based Lesson Plans for World Language Teachers
Session Language
- Consectetur adipiscing elit.
Intended AudienceAnna Matis
Come experience innovative strategies and learn how to create engaging, student-centered, and communication-based lessons in this hands-on session! Participants will receive a template that allows for optimum balance between comprehensible input and low-stress opportunities for output in a meaningful, communicative manner. Leave with tools and interactive strategies to help transform your lessons and motivate every learner, ensuring that all students thrive in your world language classroom.
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A free school-wide semester license of Speakology AI.
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Finding Joy Beyond the Textbook: Measurable Benefits of Extensive Reading
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceRisa Ginther
This presentation explores the use of Extensive Reading (ER) in Japanese classes and its impact on student learning. ER allows students to choose their own materials, read extensively, and build intrinsic motivation. The session shares practical steps, engagement strategies, and challenges from classroom experience, along with measurable outcomes like improved reading habits, motivation, cultural knoweldge. Attendees will gain practical ideas and insights into ERâs benefits for language learners.
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Extempore in Action: Practical Strategies for Proficiency-Based Language Teaching
Allie Donaldson & Haley Martinez
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceCurious how Extempore can enhance language learning and assessment? Whether you're a current user, an admin exploring tools, or seeking best practices, this session is for you. Discover how Extempore supports spontaneous speaking, listening, and student interaction. Walk away with sample tasks, classroom-tested ideas, and tips to align with proficiency goals. See how Extempore fits into modern language programs and supports both teaching and program-wide growth.
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Your Language Why
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5 easy LOTE activities to get students speaking
Jordan Kauffman
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis presentation highlights five engaging LOTE activities that boost speaking skills and confidence. Taboo teaches circumlocution through word descriptions. Liar! Liar! builds creativity and listening as students detect false statements. Picture Conversations promote descriptive dialogue through image-based discussions. Cultural Articles encourage sharing insights from readings, enhancing comprehension and speaking. Podcasts foster fluency with recorded group conversations.
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Travel Scholarship
$500 travel scholarship toward WorldStrides or Explorica by WorldStrides when you begin planning a 2026 or 2027 trip.
Creating Joyful Readers: Implementing Free Voluntary Reading in the Language Acquisition Classroom
Cindy Medina
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceDiscover how Free Voluntary Reading (FVR), also known as Sustained Silent Reading (SSR), can transform your classroom into a community of enthusiastic, self-directed readers. This session will share practical strategies, routines, and success stories from a classroom-based FVR program, highlighting how it supports language acquisition, student agency, and a love for readingâall with minimal prep and maximum impact.
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Working smarter with AI-mazing tools
Marie Matos
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceAI is revolutionizing education and as it continues to reshape the way we teach and learn, itâs essential for educators to leverage its potential in the classroom. In this session, weâll dive into AI platforms like ChatGPT, Magic School and Brisk, exploring how they can enhance your planning, streamline instruction, and create more engaging learning experiences. Learn how to save time, differentiate instruction, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
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Developing a Can-do Attitude for Growing Proficiency
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceMariana Jimenez
In this informative session, participants will explore the transformative power of Can-Do Statements in shaping a proficiency-based language classroom. Can-Do Statements serve as a clear roadmap for both teachers and students, outlining what learners can accomplish at various proficiency levels. This session will dive into practical strategies for integrating these statements into daily instruction, assessment, and feedback to foster a learner-centered environment focused on developing studentsâ language proficiency and interculturality.
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Talk Back: AI Conversations and Automated Pronunciation Practice
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceLouise Stoehr
We demonstrate how educators can integrate AI-powered conversational experiences with automated pronunciation assessment to develop learnersâ speaking proficiency. Grounded in five ACTFL Core Practices, participants learn to design AI scenarios using strategic prompt engineering and implement accessible tools like iSpraak for immediate feedback. This blend of tools enables comprehensive, low-stakes conversation practice that addresses both fluency and accuracy in culturally authentic communicative contexts.
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Winterfest Winners: A Teacherâs Guide to the Texas German Contest System
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceDee Karl
Never heard of the Texas State German Contest? This workshop introduces Texas German teachers to the structure and opportunities of the three regional competitions and their connection to the state-level contest. Learn how to prepare students for success in academic and cultural events, understand contest rules, and navigate the path from regional participation to state qualification. Ideal for both new and experienced educators aiming to enhance their German programs through these enriching competitions.
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Engaging the Learner Beyond the Classroom
Maryam Emami
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceExtracurricular language activities offer opportunities for practical application of language skills in authentic contexts, for learners looking to improve their language skills beyond the classroom. Among many other benefits, these activities allow students to learn in a fun, non-judgmental environment & facilitate their learning. We will address all these factors that together help create a more enriching, enjoyable, and holistic language learning experience.
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PACE'ing our reading
Marie Matos
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceReading enhances comprehension, attention, observation, concentration, reflection/critical thinking, and memory. In our students, it can spark curiosity and nurture imagination, as well as activate inspiration, creativity, and the emergence of ideas. It also provides the opportunity to learn the necessary grammar, spelling and sentence structure in a more organic way, in other words: We are PACE'ing our reading.
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From Silent to Speaking: Getting Students Talking in the TL Every Day
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceTito Ortega
Do your students freeze when asked to speak in the target language? This session provides concrete strategies to create a classroom where students want to speak and are expected to 90% of the time. Learn how to build confidence, set expectations, and create a safe, consistent environment that prioritizes speaking. Walk away with ready-to-use routines and resources to make your TL classroom successful and sustainable.
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Cultivating Vision in the World Language Classroom
Ashli Sambaluk
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceHow can we help students see themselves as confident, capable users of the language they're learning? This session explores practical strategies for cultivating "vision"âa motivating sense of future selfâin the world language classroom. Discover engaging, research-informed activities that build confidence, promote meaningful communication, and empower students to imagine real-world roles for their language skills.
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Conquistando el Español: Estrategias Claves para el aprendizaje Eficaz
Ana Cecilia Mewa
Session Language
- Spanish
Intended AudienceCome and learn how to conquer the Spanish language through efficient strategies based on the LOTE teks and under the fundamental five research. These strategies had helped my students score high in the AP exam, but you can use them in any upper level (from two honors to four AP) let your students learn, engage in speaking the language since day 1 and have fun at the same time. Let the rigor of your lessons shine bright on a daily basis in your class.
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MĂĄs que un idioma: Diseño intencional de currĂculo para estudiantes de herencia hispana
Nathan Henderson
Session Language
- Spanish
Intended AudienceLos estudiantes de herencia traen consigo una riqueza lingĂŒĂstica y cultural al aula, pero ÂżcĂłmo diseñamos un currĂculo que honre sus identidades mientras desarrollan sus habilidades lingĂŒĂsticas? En esta sesiĂłn, se compartirĂĄ el proceso de creaciĂłn de un currĂculo de Español para Estudiantes de Herencia que sea culturalmente relevante, enfocado en la competencia comunicativa y alineado con metas a largo plazo como el Ă©xito en cursos AP y la alfabetizaciĂłn bilingĂŒe. Exploraremos aspectos clave como la identidad, la diferenciaciĂłn de la instrucciĂłn y el uso de recursos autĂ©nticos. Los participantes se llevarĂĄn ideas prĂĄcticas y estĂĄn invitados a hacer preguntas sobre cĂłmo iniciar o fortalecer sus propios programas para estudiantes de herencia.
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Year TFLA membership
1 calendar year membership
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Progressing the Novice Learner up the Proficiency Scale
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceJennifer Melgar
Boost student success with dynamic strategies to build proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication. Experience adaptable, hands-on activities and take away practical resources to move students up through the proficiency scale. Perfect for any modern language classroom!
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Inspiring Language Use Through Play
Bonnie Lehman
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceDiscover practical, low-prep games that encourage students to develop expressive and receptive skills in the target language. This session offers hands-on ideas to boost engagement and foster authentic communication, helping learners build confidence and fluencyâall through play. Leave with ready-to-use activities and fresh inspiration for your classroom!
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Language in Action
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceMaria Cruz
Join us for an engaging presentation that explores best practices in world language education. Discover practical strategies to successfully bridge classroom learning with real-world application, empowering students to thrive beyond the school environment. Educators will gain practical, ready-to-implement techniques to elevate their teaching and foster a dynamic learning environment.
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Speak Up! Energize Your Classroom with Conversation Strategies for Language Success
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceChristina Sizemore
Unlock the power of conversation in your world language classroom! Join us to explore dynamic strategies that will boost student engagement and language development. Walk away with practical tools from the book "7 Steps to a Language Rich World Language Classroom" to create a more interactive, fun, and effective learning environment where every student thrives. Donât miss this opportunity to transform how your students speak, connect, and grow in language!
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Techniques to Activate verbal and visual memories and develop spiral learning
Jesus Vieitez-Perez & Gabino Andres Cienfuegos
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceEffective learning is not meaningless forgettable learning, but an active and cooperative learning process where students are capable of setting up their own learning goals and expectations. When students take the lead of their own learning process, long-term memory is successfully activated, so instruction becomes an essential component of the cognitive development of the students. Hence the importance of developing spiral learning across the curriculum.
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The Power of Compelling Guiding Questions
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceJames Ayers
What if every lesson you taught sparked curiosity, invited authentic communication, and kept students eager to participate? Compelling Guiding Questions (CGQs) are the key. These questions- engaging, open-ended, and designed to connect to studentsâ lives- create classrooms where communication thrives. Join us as we will explore what makes a guiding question compelling and how they transform the classroom into a communicative experience. Participants will see how CGQs can shape daily lessons as we analyze examples, design our own CGQs, and discuss strategies to adapt them to different proficiency levels.
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From Page to Proficiency: Strategies for Using Leveled Readers in the Elementary Spanish Classroom
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceMargaret Emily Meador, VerĂłnica Echarte, and Rebecca Jobe
Leveled readers can be a powerful tool for promoting second language acquisition in elementary classrooms. In this session, a team of experienced Spanish teachers will share engaging, literacy-based strategies for using novels with elementary grades. Participants will leave with practical ideas for games, movement-based activities, and comprehension assessmentsâall grounded in the ACTFL Core Practices.
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Supporting Studentsâ Journey in Japanese Learning
Tomoko Baker & Yuka Kato
Language education aims not only to help students acquire language skills but also to foster their growth as lifelong language learners. What factors discourage Japanese language learners as they progress from middle school to high school, from Japanese 2 to 3, from high school to university, and from university to adult education? What kind of support can make it easier for students to continue their Japanese learning? Let's explore together how K-12 and higher education can support students' lifelong Japanese Language journey.
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Part 1: Think you can just walk in and speak the language? Of course you can!
Megan Whalon
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis session will empower participants to use more target language in their classes by giving them concrete strategies to increase their use of the target language while supporting their students. Participants will experience a lesson in 90% target language that they can adapt for their classroom. Participants will leave with strategies to use more target language in their classrooms and build all their students' confidence starting at the novice level.
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$50 Amazon gift card
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Moving Forward Together: Unified Efforts to Further Language Education in Texas
Nick Gossett
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceThis presentation will provide information on the Texas Joint Committee on Language (TJCL). The TJCL is a group of K12 administrators, higher ed faculty, and language industry professionals. The primary objective of the TJCL is to break down the unintentional silos that currently exist between K12 and Higher Ed language programs. We recognize that these two sectors often operate independently, and the TJCL aims to bridge the gap, fostering collaboration among educators, administrators, and other stakeholders with the goal of furthering language education in the state of Texas. This presentation will talk about the ongoing work of this group and ways you can get involved!
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Integrating Culture into Korean Instruction: A Report Based on Student Satisfaction Outcomes
Session Language
- Korean
Intended AudienceMina Yeon
This presentation outlines a semester-long cultural project embedded into beginner and intermediate Korean courses through a partnership with a university Korean Student Association. Survey results and student-created materials indicate higher cultural understanding, increased learning satisfaction, and evidence of incidental vocabulary acquisition. We will share a step-by-step framework for incorporating cultural learning into language instruction, as well as its advantages and challenges.
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Purposeful Writing: Elevating Student Voice with Talk, Read, Talk, Write in WL Classrooms
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceMariacarmen Corvison
Experience how Talk, Read, Talk, Write (TRTW) transforms everyday lessons into meaningful opportunities for communication and writing in the target language. Learn how to spark ideas through conversation, explore a purposeful text, scaffold peer interaction, and guide students to write with clarity and voice. Grounded in high-leverage practices and aligned to TEKS, this session offers ready-to-use strategies to help students grow as confident, proficient writers.
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Your Classroom Is the Gateway to Global Influence: Discovering Francophone Africa
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceAshli Sambaluk
The French language is more than a tool for communication; it's a bridge to global opportunity. With over half of the worldâs French speakers projected to live in Africa by 2050, Francophone Africa is emerging as a dynamic center of cultural, economic, and diplomatic influence. This presentation offers teachers a suite of free activities designed to introduce students to the diversity, vibrancy, and global relevance of Francophone Africa thanks to a Fulbright-Hayes funded project undertaken by the AATF.
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Exploring AI Tools in Japanese Language Teaching and Learning
Yuko Prefume,Yoshiko Fujii, Makoto Negishi
As technology keeps evolving, this session is designed for Japanese language educators at every stage, from those excited to try out new AI tools to those still exploring how generative AI might enhance teaching practices. Three presenters will share hands-on experiences with ChatGPT, similar platforms, and emerging AI tools, offering practical ideas for interactive language practice and personalized learning.The session will also highlight how these technologies can serve as assistive tools, streamlining routine tasks and saving teachers precious time to focus on engaging classroom instruction. More than a presentation, this session is an invitation to open collaboration. Attendees are encouraged to share concerns, exchange ideas, and contribute experiences as key issues such as data privacy, ethical considerations, andkeeping the human connection in education. Participants can join for a relaxed discussion that blends traditional language teaching with innovative technology, offering practical ideas for navigating
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How Do Teachers� Listening to the Voices of World Language Educators
Dr. Karla O'Donald
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceJoin our interactive session inspired by the TELL Projectâs âHow do teachersâŠ?â essential questions. Instead of prescribing answers, we listened to world language educators and uncovered practical, uplifting strategies directly from their classrooms. Come hear their voices, gather ready-to-use ideas, and reflect on how teacher-centered conversations can lead to more meaningful and responsive professional growth.
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AATF North Texas & Texas French Symposium: Resources for French Teachers (2:45-4:30PM)
Michel Nkwocha & Elizabeth Willcutt
Session Language
Session Location
One-year license
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Introduction to "Yasashii" Japanese Literature from the Intermediate-Low Level
Angela Harris
I will discuss ways to orient a content course on Japanese literature (applicable to other aspects ofJapanese culture) to the language skills and cultural knowledge appropriate to students at the Intermediate Low and Intermediate Mid levels. I hope that this presentation will help provide instructors with resources to teach content-based courses in the target language, involving meaningful conversations about art, literature, and society, even those on topics that are often considered to be beyond the students' level in terms of difficulty.
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Fostering Language Proficiency: Reading Comprehension Strategies for World Language Classrooms
Session Language
- English
Intended AudienceElizabeth Williams
Explore literacy strategies that boost reading comprehension in World Language classrooms from novice to advanced levels. Learn practical pre-reading, while-reading, and post-reading techniques that support vertical alignment and are adaptable across all languages and content areas. While presented by an AP Spanish Language & Culture teacher, the session draws on collaboration with educators, literacy specialists, and students from early childhood to university settings.
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Session Title
Speaker(s)
Session Language
- English/Spanish/French/Japanese/Korean
Intended Audience- Elementary, Secondary, Post Secondary
Session LocationSession descriptions