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Research 3 Product: French Dialogue Cubes
Research 3 Product: French Dialogue Cubes
Salut !
Salut !
Chapitre 1: Salut, c’est moi
NIVEAU 1 - HULPBLAD
Kant 6: Joker!
Kies één van de vijf andere kanten om een vraag te stellen.
Chapitre 1: Salut, c’est moi
NIVEAU 2 - HULPBLAD
Kant 1 : Dis ton prénom.
Rol A (question): Rol B (réponse):
1. Begroet de ander en zeg je naam. 2. Groet de ander terug en zeg hoe je
Vraag hem/haar dan hoe hij/zij heet. Gebruik een van de 3 manieren die
heet. je geleerd hebt om jezelf voor te
stellen (Mijn naam is.., Ik ben ...., Ik, Ik
ben...).
Kant 2 : Dis où tu habites.
Kant 6: Joker!
Kies één van de vijf andere kanten om een vraag te stellen.
Chapitre 1 : Salut, c’est moi !
Naam :
Zelfbeoordeling - Checklist
Hoe ging het voor jou? Schrijf op of je iets nieuws hebt geleerd, of iets
moeilijk was, wat je de volgende keer beter kunt doen.
Vergeet niet om een datum toe te voegen telkens als je een nieuwe
zelfreflectie schrijft.
Chapitre 2: C’est si bon !
H DIALOGUE CUBE
FRENC
SV
P
SV
P
Chapitre 2: C’est si bon !
NIVEAU 1 - HULPBLAD
Zelfbeoordeling - Checklist
Hoe ging het voor jou? Schrijf op of je iets nieuws hebt geleerd, of iets
moeilijk was, wat je de volgende keer beter kunt doen.
Vergeet niet om een datum toe te voegen telkens als je een nieuwe
zelfreflectie schrijft.
Table of Contents
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 3
I. Design and Duration......................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Structure of the Activity ........................................................................................................ 4
1.2 Duration of the Activity......................................................................................................... 4
II. Learning Objectives ......................................................................................................................... 4
III. Prerequisite Knowledge ................................................................................................................. 5
IV. Activity Explanation ....................................................................................................................... 6
4.1 Material needed......................................................................................................................... 6
V. Assessment Strategies ..................................................................................................................... 8
VI. Feedback and Further Development .............................................................................................. 8
Conclusion .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Bibliography ...................................................................................................................................... 10
2
Introduction
Welcome to this Teacher’s manual about the dialogue cubes. This ressource has been
specifically made to fit the needs and challenges of our Havo-Vwo 1 Dutch students, assisting
them in their first year of learning French as a new language and enhance their learning
experience. The goal of this manual is to provide you, the teachers of the french section of Het
Streek Lyceum with a practical and complete tool, allowing you to smoothly implement the
dialogue cubes into their lessons.
Purpose and Alignment with Language Learning Objectives:
At its core, this ressource aims to enhance language learning, offering an innovative and
interactive approach that caters to the diverse needs of our students. This unique blend
encompasses explicit grammar instruction, exposure to authentic language, and the creation of
an immersive and supportive learning environment. The overarching goal is clear: to reinforce
language skills (with a focus on speaking), encourage active participation, and instill confidence
in speaking and expressing oneself in French.
This material aligns with established language learning objectives from the A1 level of the CEFR
and can be used in complement to the Grande Lignes method. Through explicit grammar
instruction, exposure to authentic materials, and the cultivation of a supportive learning
environment, the cubes directly contribute to the development of crucial language
competencies. The purpose of this resource is to elevate language learning into an engaging
and enriching experience for students and make them actors in their own learning process.
Context of Development:
The development of the cubes was rooted in a comprehensive research initiative on how to
allow students to develop their speaking skills, delving into effective language instruction
strategies and addressing the unique challenges faced by our students in HAVO-VWO 1 during
their first year of learning French. The Research 3 course at Hogeschool Utrecht provided the
platform for this exploration, allowing for the synthesis of valuable insights and the subsequent
creation of a resource that not only meets academic standards but also resonates with the
practical needs of our language learners.
As you begin implementing this resource in your French classes, I encourage you to explore the
following sections of this manual. Each section provides detailed insights and guidance to
ensure a smooth integration of ths resource into your lessons, creating an interacting and
effective language learning experience for our students.
3
I. Design and Duration
The French Sentence Cubes activity is designed to allow smooth integration into the lessons.
Each cube rotation is estimated to last between 5 to 10 minutes (but can be reduced if needed),
providing students with a balanced and immersive practice session. This timeframe enables
students to explore multiple cubes, engage with dialogues from different chapters, and attain a
comprehensive language learning experience.
The dialogue cubes are designed with explicit learning objectives aligned with the A1 level of the
CEFR and the Grandes Lignes method book, as seen in this table:
Learning objective(s) from the A1 level Learning goal(s) from the HAVO-VWO 1
of the CEFR (Europe, 2020) Grandes Lignes method
Chapter + theme
Chapter 1 : “Salut, Can understand simple personal - Ik kan iemand begroeten and
c’est moi !” - information (e.g. name, age, place of afscheid nemen in het Frans. (I can
introducing yourself, residence, origin) when other people greet someone and take leave of the
where you live and introduce themselves slowly and person in French)
your family clearly, directly to them, and can
understand and answer questions on - Ik kan mezelf voorstellen (naam,
this theme addressed to them, leeftijd, waar ik woon, mijn
though the questions may need to be nationaliteit, mijn telefoonnummer) en
repeated. deze informatie aan iemand anders
vragen. (I can introduce myself (name,
age, where I live, my phone number)
and ask about these information to
someone else.
4
Chapter 2 “C’est si Can understand simple questions Ik kan iets bestellen of kopen (vragen
bon!” - vocabulary that directly concern them, if the om het menu, bestel een bord eten en
about food, prices person is asking slowly and clearly. een drankje, vragen om de rekening).
and ordering at a (I can order or buy something (ask for
restaurant/food shop Can ask for food and drink using the menu, order a plate of food and a
basic expressions. drink, ask for the check)
Can handle numbers, quantities and
cost.
As students engage in the French Sentence Cubes activity, they delve into a dynamic language
learning experience. The process intricately enhances language proficiency, focusing on
developing listening and speaking skills. Beyond foundational A1-level competencies, the
activity propels students to expand their vocabulary in areas such as daily life, family dynamics,
and ordering food.
Moreover, the interactive dialogues embedded in the cubes actively contribute to border CEFR
objectives, such as the development of effective communication skills (with a focus on listening
and speaking), fostering confident oral expression, and providing insights into French common
language expressions, enriching students' cultural awareness.
These comprehensive learning objectives ensure that students engage in a meaningful
language learning experience with this material, covering both foundational A1-level skills and
broader language competencies.
By ensuring that students have covered the prerequisite chapters, you can guarantee that
participants possess the necessary vocabulary and language skills to actively engage in the
activity:
Cube 1 - Introduction and Greetings: The completion of Chapter 1 is a prerequisite for the first
cube activity, as it introduces students to essential vocabulary and phrases needed for greetings
and basic interactions. This foundation ensures they can confidently participate in dialogues
related to personal information.
Cube 2 - Food and Ordering at a Restaurant: The completion of Chapter 2 of the Grande Lignes
Method is necessary for the use of the second cube. Students should have a grasp of
vocabulary associated with food, expressions for ordering, and the ability to inquire about
prices. This knowledge prepares them for engaging dialogues centered around food
preferences and restaurant scenarios.
5
IV. Activity Explanation
- 2 Dialogue Cubes:
Two sets of cubes, each corresponding to specific chapters (Chapter 1 “Coucou, c’est
moi!” and Chapter 2 “C’est si bon!”).
- 2 Help Sheets:
Individual forms for students to assess their language readiness and performance (1
form per cube and chapter)
Completed after each cube session, encouraging self-awareness and personal
development.
The cubes, help sheets, and self-reflection forms are color-coded for each chapter of the
Grande Lignes book method.
Step-by-Step Guide – French Dialogue Cubes:
Step and time Instructions
Preparation 1. Introduction:
phase (5-7min) • Begin by introducing the French Sentence Cubes and the purpose of the activity.
2. Group formation:
• Form groups of 4 to 6 students (pairs can also work effectively for this activity)
3. Cube distribution:
• Hand out both cubes and their respective help sheets and reflection forms.
• Explain that cube 1 corresponds to vocabulary and grammar from chapter 1 and cube 2
corresponds to vocabulary and grammar from chapter 2.
4. Instructions:
• Provide instructions to students for the activity: a student (role A) rolls the cube and falls on
an image with a number, for example, face 4. They will then look at the help sheet for the
corresponding dialogue and choose another student (role B) to perform the dialogue. The other
students listen and correct if needed. Once it is done, the student who was chosen to perform
the dialogue becomes role A and throws the cube.
6
5. Teacher modeling:
• Provide an example of dialogue (from cube 1, level 1):
3. Cube rotation:
• Have students rotate workstations or cubes and their help sheets so groups that just
practiced with cube 1 can practice with cube 2 and vice-versa.
4. Activity continuation:
• Repeat the activity with Cube 2, following the same procedure.
End/Conclusion 1. Closure:
phase (2-3min) • Conclude the activity with a brief discussion, checking for concepts and allowing students to
share their experiences.
7
V. Assessment Strategies
Assessing students' performance during and after the activity is essential for understanding their
progress. Here are some assessment strategies to consider:
Time phase Possible assessment(s)
During the activity Observation:
- Observe students for their interaction, engagement, and application of
vocabulary and grammar from the relevant chapters.
- Assess participation, collaboration, and the effective use of language
prompts provided by the cubes.
Peer Evaluation:
Implement a peer evaluation system where students offer constructive
feedback to their peers during the activity.
By considering these assessment strategies, the French Sentence Cubes activity becomes not
only an engaging exercise but also a meaningful contributor to our broader language learning
objectives and assessments.
As you work on implementing this resource, your insights and experiences are essential to its
success. I encourage you to share your feedback, highlighting both positive aspects and any
challenges encountered during the sessions. Your input will not only enhance the current
material but also contribute to its continuous improvement. This manual serves as a
collaborative space where your suggestions for future updates or modifications will be
considered, ensuring the sustained effectiveness and relevance of the dialogue cubes in our
language curriculum.
8
Conclusion
This manual marks the intersection of pedagogical insight and hands-on application, offering a
roadmap for implementing the Dialogue Cubes. From their academic inception to practical
classroom considerations, each chapter provides guidance for a dynamic and effective
language learning activity.
The comprehensive learning objectives, detailed activity explanations, and assessment
strategies emphasize a holistic approach, fostering not only grammatical mastery but a genuine
connection to French language. The collaborative spirit extends to you, the educator, providing
feedback for ongoing refinement and adaptability.
Contact details
Léa Siri
School e-mail adress: lsi@hetstreek.nl
9
Bibliography
10
STARR – Research 3 cubes and teacher guide
Situation:
For my final research course, I worked on a research project aimed at enriching the speaking
skills of 1st-year HAVO-VWO students at Het Streek Lyceum in French This project was guided
by insights drawn from educational literature, including Geerts' (2018) Teachers' Handbook for
Secondary and Vocational Education, which provided practical guidance for instructional
design, and Wilson's (2017) guide on school-based research, praising the importance of
formulating research questions aligned with educational objectives. Additionally, Gao's (2019)
review of research on oral communication in the target language informed the theoretical
framework underpinning the project.
Task:
Formulating specific research questions aligned with language learning objectives and
instructional strategies, I aimed to investigate how the integration of dialogue cubes could
enhance students' speaking proficiency and promote greater engagement with the French
language within the classroom context. Geerts' (2018) handbook offered insights into effective
instructional design strategies, emphasizing the importance of creating engaging learning
experiences tailored to students' needs and abilities. Wilson's (2017) guide highlighted the
significance of conducting research that addresses practical concerns in educational settings,
such as language learning outcomes and student engagement.
Action:
Implementation of the project involved several steps. Leveraging insights from Geerts (2018) and
Wilson (2017), I utilized observation techniques to observe student engagement levels and
identify potential challenges in the implementation process. Geerts' (2018) handbook informed
my approach to instructional design, emphasizing the need to create clear learning objectives
and provide adequate support for students throughout the learning process. I provided guidance
and clarification where necessary, aiming to optimize the effectiveness of the dialogue cubes in
facilitating meaningful language practice. Additionally, I evaluated student performance using
predetermined criteria. Furthermore, I solicited feedback from students to evaluate their
experiences and suggestions for improvement, aligning with the emphasis on collaborators
input in the research process.
In parallel with the dialogue cubes, I developed a teacher guide to accompany the research
project. Drawing on best practices outlined in educational literature, such as Geerts (2018) and
Wilson (2017), the guide provided instructors with detailed instructions for integrating the
dialogue cubes into their lesson plans effectively. Geerts' (2018) handbook provided insights
into effective instructional design strategies, emphasizing the importance of creating engaging
learning experiences tailored to students' needs and abilities. By equipping teachers with the
necessary tools and resources, the guide aimed to facilitate implementation of the material and
promote consistency across different classroom settings.
Result:
The research project, coupled with the development of the teacher guide, gave promising
results. Analysis of evaluation criteria scores indicated a generally positive reception among
students, suggesting that the dialogue cubes effectively contributed to the language learning
objectives. Moreover, student feedback highlighted specific areas for enhancement, including
the need for audio support and greater thematic variety. Despite these minor shortcomings, the
overall impact on students' linguistic development and intercultural awareness was notably
positive. The dialogue cubes facilitated improvements in vocabulary acquisition,
communication skills, and overall confidence in using the French language.
Reflection:
This research project provided valuable insights into the practical implementation of innovative
language teaching methodologies, drawing on theoretical frameworks and practical guidance
from educational literature such. It underscored the importance of tailoring instructional
strategies to meet the diverse needs of learners (Geerts, 2018) while fostering an environment
conducive to active language engagement (Gao, 2019). Moving forward, I intend to further
investigates the relationship between speaking practice and proficiency levels. Additionally, I
plan to polish and expand the teacher guide based on feedback from educators and students,
ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness in supporting language teaching.
Bibliography:
Gao, X. (2019). Understanding and fostering oral communication in the target language: A
Wilson, E. (Ed.) (2017). School-based Research. A guide for education students (3rd ed.)