Using authentic resources in the world language classroom is essential. These resources provide a cultural context for learning in an authentic and meaningful way and demonstrate how the target language (TL) is used in the real world. It is often difficult, however, to find the perfect resources to match vocabulary lists or students' level. Although finding the resources may take a long time, they lend an importance to learning a TL and give students the opportunity to learn from the "experts" - native TL speakers.
When looking for appropriate resources, there are a few things to keep in mind:
The task should be level and content appropriate. Although a resource may seem too difficult for students, it is what you do with the resource that is most important. Answering multiple choice questions is easier than open-ended questions. Adjusting the expectations to fit the abilities of the students is much easier than finding a new resource. If a video is too difficult, for example, you can simply turn off the volume and have students watch the pictures.
Plan vocabulary based on resources, not the other way around. It is almost impossible to find an authentic resource to perfectly match your vocabulary list, especially when the list comes from a textbook. If you are flexible with your list, you are more likely to find a resource that fits. Resources do not need to fit every word, but can be a way to introduce a topic or initiate conversation. Whenever possible, find the resources first and then create your vocabulary list.
When looking for appropriate resources, there are a few things to keep in mind:
The task should be level and content appropriate. Although a resource may seem too difficult for students, it is what you do with the resource that is most important. Answering multiple choice questions is easier than open-ended questions. Adjusting the expectations to fit the abilities of the students is much easier than finding a new resource. If a video is too difficult, for example, you can simply turn off the volume and have students watch the pictures.
Plan vocabulary based on resources, not the other way around. It is almost impossible to find an authentic resource to perfectly match your vocabulary list, especially when the list comes from a textbook. If you are flexible with your list, you are more likely to find a resource that fits. Resources do not need to fit every word, but can be a way to introduce a topic or initiate conversation. Whenever possible, find the resources first and then create your vocabulary list.
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