Monday, August 6, 2012

Skype Pen Pals - An Authentic Experience!

via Skype


How many of you had pen pals when you were younger? How excited were you when you received the letters your pen pal sent to you?  

In today's digital world, we have the ability to have "Skype Pen Pals" and connect with students and classrooms all over the world.  A "Skype Pen Pal," different than a traditional pen pal, communicates with you via Skype in real time and replaces writing with speaking.  There is no better way to learn a foreign language than full immersion.  Since full immersion is not a possibility for many of us, the ability to communicate with native speakers is a close runner-up.  

In the near future (hopefully this year), I would love to set my classrooms up with "Skype Pen Pals" from Spanish-speaking countries.  Depending on the resources available at school, I will see if this is a possibility.  Not only is this a great way for you to practice your Spanish, but it is a great way for these English language learners to practice their English!  Additionally, if you are interested in talking to native Spanish speakers or teachers, tutoring is available via Skype.  Check out this link on how to use Skype in the classroom.

Who's on board?  ¡Vámonos!


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