Parents and the community have been very supportive in the establishment of three computer centers for our school as well as connecting us through the Internet to the rest of the world. Dunkerton High School is a small rural school whose students normally would not have an opportunity to readily learn about people living in other countries. The Internet has afforded them with a chance to talk directly to students their own age living in various Hispanic countries about current real life situations. Divide students at each school into groups of 3-4 study pods. Compile a shared book list.
Students read childrens stories in the target language to one another.
Discuss characters, favorite parts of the book, etc. My students enjoyed being able to read and understand childrens books in the target language. It expands the number of resources that are available to me by providing students with a well-rounded education through direct contact with students and people living in other countries. I know that they will take an active part in the lesson. Active participation in the classroom is vital to a successful learning atmosphere.