From scattered to structured.
An overview of the website.
As Italian teachers, we’ve all seen the abundance of online resources available for Italian learners. There’s a lot out there, likely thousands of websites, but I’ve yet to find one place specifically dedicated to high school Italian. Sure, platforms like TES, Teachers Pay Teachers, and even Facebook groups can be useful, but it always feels like going to the supermarket, doesn’t it? We grab things from all over the store, piecing bits and pieces together.
While spending too much of my free time browsing for Italian resources that fit the curriculum, I kept thinking, “Wouldn’t it be nice if we had a dedicated place for Italian high school teachers?”
That’s exactly where High School Italian comes in. It’s a place where you can find materials created specifically for high school Italian teachers. Whether you are looking for ready-to-use worksheets, full units of work, or ideas to integrate into your lessons, the purpose of this site is to be a one-stop shop.
But this space is not meant to be only about learning materials. It is designed to be a community for people to connect, collaborate and share experiences. We’re working hard to create opportunities to link up with Italian communities and cultural institutions to bring authentic Italian experiences into our classrooms.
High School Italian is an evolving space. In its final form, it will include these eight features:
- A Comprehensive Resource Depository– A wide range of downloadable digital products, from simple worksheets to full units of work, along with scope and sequence documents for years 7-12. These resources will be developed in accordance with the latest research in cognitive science applied to language learning.
- Interactive AI-Powered Activities– I believe in leveraging technology to provide students with engaging, adaptive learning experiences. This platform will offer differentiated content designed to cater to the individual needs of each student.
- An online Tutoring Platform– Teachers and students will be able to schedule one-on-one tutoring sessions, providing additional support outside the classroom.
- Professional Development Courses– We’ll offer online courses and workshops for teachers looking to enhance their skills in teaching Italian, and students who want to deepen their understanding of the language.
- Partnerships with Local Businesses– We’ll be able to offer discounts and excursions, encouraging immersive, real-world language experiences.
- Marketplace for Teachers– Teachers will have the opportunity to upload and sell their own teaching resources, creating a vibrant, collaborative marketplace.
- Blog and Community Space– Through our blog, we’ll share valuable insights, tips and experiences from Italian teachers around the world. Our linked Facebook group will foster discussion and exchange of ideas, forming a supportive network for educators and students alike.
- Collaboration Opportunities– We will work closely with Italian cultural institutions, local communities and partner schools to arrange virtual exchanges, offering students the chance to interact with peers in Italy and apply their language skills in meaningful, real-world contexts.
So, take your time, explore the resources, and if you have any ideas you’d like to share, please leave a comment or email me.
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you find what you’re looking for!