Programs

The importance of using culturally authentic materials in foreign language instruction is discussed within the context of national calls for American students to understand other cultures. A brief report on a summer institute for Spanish teachers is presented. Participants studied the teaching of culture, some tenets of U.S. culture for awareness and comparison purposes, and the culture of Mexico in general and of Michoacan in particular. Coursework included information on schooling / family structure, sex roles, social class, indigenous cultures, the ritual life of the community, popular and fine arts, etc. Participants also d3fined and shared extensive quantities of authentic materials. Materials identified as "clearly authentic " included transcripts, greeting cards, newspapers, invitations, advertisements, menus, and schedules. "Teacher-made " materials included videos, slides, prints, and tape