Storytime con Sra. Jensen

Speed dating “libro-style”

(This blog was originally posted in 2019. The best practices never go out of style!) As a way to mix it up and let kids review more books in a short period of time, today we did “speed dating” of books for FVR (free voluntary reading) in the future. I adjusted it a bit fromContinue reading “Speed dating “libro-style””

Arte martes

Are you looking to add a some fun routines to your week? Try arte martes! It’s quick, pretty low prep, and goes with whatever unit you are teaching! I first got this idea from none other than the Nebraska CI star Jamie Demson (formerly Honke), but I don’t know if she originated it. If youContinue reading “Arte martes”

Rostros y ecos

What is it about some people that they just stay with us? There have been millions of people throughout time but some leave a lasting impression; they echo. This book tells the stories of 12 of those lives. The best thing is this book is for every level. It’s written in simple language, has footnotes,Continue reading “Rostros y ecos”

Sha Sha Sha Shakira

Shakira has come a long way since her angsty, clever word plays from the 90s… or has she? Shakira is one of the most famous people in Latin America, and with reason. There is more to her than a talented, beautiful woman. She is a genius, poet, song writer and humanitarian. Only Shakira could takeContinue reading “Sha Sha Sha Shakira”

Demi got a glow up!

Do you know Demi Lovato’s story? I personally have this in my library and my students love it. Lovato’s talents have brought them fame, but happiness hasn’t come easy. Through their struggles with personal tragedy, mental health and substance abuse, it has been a long road. Follow Demi on their journey of activism, benevolence andContinue reading “Demi got a glow up!”

So much more than an avatar

You would kind of have to live under a rock not to have heard of Zoe Saldaña. The Dominican-Puerto Rican actress is the highest grossing actress of all time and starred in 4 of the 6 highest grossing films of all time! Seriously! But did you know she speaks Italian too? She married Italian artist,Continue reading “So much more than an avatar”

Why no music during FVR?

If you even dip your foot into the research on FVR, or “free voluntary reading”, it sounds like pure magic. As a teacher, the most powerful and effective tool I can wield is something the students do all by themselves? Yes, please! However, we have all surely had the kid who always has headphones going,Continue reading “Why no music during FVR?”

This is me

Hi, it’s me. I’m a Spanish teacher in a large suburban high school in Omaha, Nebraska, where I have taught for 27 years now. I have been teaching using comprehensible input based instruction for a number of years now but by no means have it mastered. One thing about teaching is that your “success” alwaysContinue reading “This is me”