As we enter the exam run-in for the GCSE speaking test in modern foreign languages, it is a pleasure to see teachers around the country using the power of blogs and podcasts to support their students and offer them distance learning opportunities.
Helena Butterfield from Ian Ramsey C of E School from example has published some model answers as mp3 files for her pupils to download and listen to on their computers or iPods. Likewise, the MFL department from Seven Kings High School has created a blog in French and Spanish with embedded sound files and answers graded for their performance from A* to F.
At Millthorpe School, language teachers have created podcasts for the higher and foundation papers including transcripts for pupils to follow while they listen. Likewise, Alex Bellars from Ballard School has produced GCSE speaking revision in French and German on his Ballard LangBlog, Jill Royall from Mangotsfield School has published a number of different resources to support her pupils and there are some similar podcasts which can be downloaded from Reepham Languages too.
By taking the RSS feed from each of these sites, pupils could easily download the podcasts and transfer them on to mobile devices so they could revise wherever and whenever they choose. Hopefully, this option would provide them with the incentive to do so and take advantage of these useful resources to help them prepare thoroughly for their upcoming tests. Fingers crossed.
See also MFL podcasting experiments a sound idea? and MFL Karaoke and Role Play Raps for more ideas
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