Incorporating L2 Learning Principles into Teaching ApproachesThrough Digital Storytelling by Elena Poltachenko & Liz Iannotti

1. Incorporating L2 Learning Principles into Teaching ApproachesThrough Digital Storytelling Elena Poltavtchenko Northern Arizona University Elizabeth Iannotti LaGuardia Community College

3. Process of creating a DS

4. Educational uses of DS

5. Positive outcomes reported by practitioners

6. Reported classroom activities that support these outcomes and corresponding L2 learning principles

7. Potential challenges for using DS in ESL classes

8. Tips for implementing DS projects

10. Focus on a particular theme or viewpoint

13. History

14. Character

15. Work

16. Love

17. Recovery

18. Discovery

19. Informational / instructional

20. Persuasive / argumentative

21. Reflective

22. Adventure

25. Organizational

26. Technology

27. Presentation

28. Problem-solving

29. Assessment / Reflection

30. Critical thinking

32. Writing

33. Speaking

34. Listening

35. Vocabulary

38. Basic skills in reading and writing

39. Oral communication

40. Public speaking

42. Writing

43. Speaking

44. Reading, including foundational literacies (reading comprehension, fluency, text decoding, vocabulary)

46. DS and L2 learning principles (cont’d) Reported activities in DS projects Instruction is customized for each learner. Activities are designed and sequenced to promote autonomy Learning occurs through manageable yet challenging tasks; learners choose the topics and sometimes partners Associated L2 learning principles Learner-centered classrooms, scaffolding, gradual development of autonomy Increased sense of control of one’s project and learning; enjoyment, motivation

48. Pair up or group students

49. Assessment

50. Use existing rubrics “as is” or adapt to fit your students’ projects

51. Students focus too much on technology

52. Emphasize other elements

55. Break the project into stages, each with its own grade• Include project reviews in the timeline; intervene when project is off-track. • Stress creativity, effort, and unity of text, image, and transition. • Start with low stakes, fun, fluency-based storytelling activities. • Use a story map and storyboard; these are fun and helpful. • Provide links to open resources (to prevent copyright infringement). • Talk to relevant people at school for multimedia support. Celebrate with a film festival and popcorn!

57. Increase students’ motivation and autonomy

58. Learning through manageable but challenging tasks

60. Then turn to a person sitting next to you and share your ideas