- Choice boards – Choice boards give students the freedom to select tasks that interest them, promoting a sense of control over their learning process.
- Art Components- Studying art enhances the ability to observe and analyze details, which is beneficial in subjects such as biology, chemistry, and literature. Art also encourages students to think outside the box, which can be applied to problem-solving in subjects like mathematics, science, and social studies.
- Finishing the picture– This is another art opportunity. As explained in the previous paragraph Art can be easily applied to every subject. Here is an example: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Termina-la-Imagen-11727360
- Cultural Exploration– Virtual Fields can be self-paced. My virtual field trips come with worksheets so that students can navigate and write down important information. Virtual field trips can transport students to various Spanish-speaking countries, exposing them to diverse cultures, traditions, and lifestyles.
- Books and Articles: Provide a selection of age-appropriate books, magazines, or articles in Spanish. Encourage them to write a summary or review in Spanish afterward. Create a small library in your classroom by shopping sales, second-hand stores or creating a wish-list to gather funds for this opportunity.
- Coloring sheets and Wordsearches- I know that many districts and schools have banned this or do not like to see this in their classrooms, but I still like to recommend these oldies but goodies. Make sure the themes are aligned with the class and have something to review or to teach students. For example, a coloring sheet can provide information about what is being depicted or have students research and write a small paragraph explaining the coloring sheet.
- Learning Apps: Many teachers like to have their students registered to some form of learning app throughout the language course as homework points or extra credit. This can also work to fill-in time for early finishers. This time will still be spent learning and increasing their knowledge of the language throughout their practice on the app. Only thing to look for: prices on many of these apps are not cheap, but there are some great free ones like Duolingo, Memrise, Drops and Busuu.
Extra
Do you have a group of Spanish-speaking students in lower-level classes, or students that are advanced? Maybe times teachers are inclined to just hand them extra work or a book to read but I think that finding assignments with a purpose and more align to their levels work best.
Have students organize debates on current events or controversial topics in Spanish-speaking countries. You can provide topics, articles and guides to help students.
Philosophical Questions or Round Table : Encourage discussions on philosophical or ethical questions to stimulate critical thinking and advanced vocabulary use.
