V. Essay Question
TNGS is hosting students from its sister school in Germany for a two-week exchange program. However, these exchange students face significant adjustments, including adapting to Taiwan’s 50-minute class periods (compared to their typical 30-minute sessions) and a teaching approach that differs from their preference for goal-oriented instruction. As a teacher with German students in your class, how would you adapt your teaching method to accommodate their learning preferences without compromising the educational quality for local students? Provide specific strategies and examples.
Here’s a thoughtfully structured response to the essay prompt, providing strategies that cater to both the German exchange students and local learners:
German exchange students are accustomed to shorter, goal-oriented sessions, whereas Taiwanese students are familiar with longer, structured class periods. Balancing these preferences without compromising educational quality requires creativity, flexibility, and inclusivity.
What It Is: Break the 50-minute lesson into smaller, focused segments.
How It Helps:
For German students: Resembles their shorter sessions, keeping their attention and aligning with their learning style.
For local students: Provides variety and prevents fatigue.
Example:
First 15 minutes: Introduce a clear learning goal and provide direct instruction.
Next 20 minutes: Engage students in collaborative or hands-on activities (e.g., group discussions, problem-solving tasks).
Final 15 minutes: Reflect on the lesson and review outcomes.
What It Is: Clearly outline learning goals at the start of each lesson and revisit them at the end.
How It Helps:
German students appreciate clarity and purpose, aligning with their preference for goal-driven learning.
Local students benefit from enhanced focus and structured progress tracking.
Example:
At the beginning of class: "Today, we’ll learn how to structure a persuasive essay. By the end of this lesson, you should be able to draft a strong thesis statement."
End of class: "Let’s review. Can everyone share their thesis statements?"
What It Is: Engage students in interactive and participatory activities.
How It Helps:
German students remain actively involved, reducing the adjustment challenge of extended class periods.
Local students experience more dynamic learning, increasing engagement.
Example:
Pair students for debates on current issues or create competitive quiz games related to the lesson.
What It Is: Pair German and Taiwanese students in collaborative tasks.
How It Helps:
Encourages cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Allows German students to adapt while learning from their Taiwanese peers' approach.
Example:
Writing exercises where one student drafts in English, and the partner provides constructive feedback.
What It Is: Introduce a 2-3 minute brain break midway through the class.
How It Helps:
German students feel less overwhelmed by the longer period.
Local students also gain a moment to recharge, improving overall focus.
Example:
A quick interactive activity, such as a vocabulary-building game or physical stretch.
To ensure educational quality for both groups:
Leverage dual-mode instruction (e.g., visual aids, scaffolding) to support varying learning speeds.
Use differentiated assignments that challenge advanced students while supporting others.
Foster an inclusive classroom culture, emphasizing respect for diverse learning styles.
Adapting teaching methods for German exchange students while ensuring local students thrive is an opportunity to blend educational strengths from both cultures. By structuring lessons modularly, clarifying goals, and encouraging collaboration, the classroom becomes a vibrant space for mutual learning and growth.