Expanding Horizons: Exploring Innovative Teaching Methods for Language Learning

Description:

In today’s dynamic classrooms, language educators are constantly seeking fresh, effective ways to engage students and deepen their linguistic and cultural understanding. This interactive workshop invites world language teachers to explore cutting-edge strategies and creative methodologies that go beyond the textbook. Participants will discover practical tools to enhance student motivation, integrate technology meaningfully, and design immersive, communicative experiences aligned with ACTFL standards. Whether you’re teaching novice learners or advanced speakers, you’ll leave with adaptable ideas to revitalize your instruction and empower your students as confident language users.

FLENJ TOY 25 Sybil Sanchez is a strong education professional with a bachelor’s degree in ESL Secondary Education from Universidad Laica Vicente Rocafuerte from Ecuador and a master’s degree focused on Spanish Language and Literature from Universidad de Salamanca.

She has taught ESL courses in Latin America and in the USA. As a K-8th Spanish teacher for 6 years she gained extensive experience as a teacher and curriculum writer. She coordinated a district wide program for students transitioning from 8th grade to high school. From 2009 to the present, Sybil has taught high school students in diverse areas: culture, film, and Hispanic literature including Spanish for Native and Heritage Speakers. Also, she created and implemented the AP Spanish Literature & Culture course for her district as well as virtual ELL instruction for the Wharton community through Hope’s Table Food Pantry. She established her school district wide chapter of the Spanish Honor Society in which her students have been actively involved.

She has presented at the AATSP Annual Conference in Salamanca (2018) La literatura como auxiliar en la enseñanza del español ELE, in Atlanta, GA (2021) Estudiantes hispanohablantes y de herencia en la clase de español como lengua extranjera, in San Juan, Puerto Rico (2022) Estimulando y explorando las perspectivas culturales a través del cine, (2023) in Salamanca, Literatura contemporánea, música y cine como herramientas en la clase de ELE, in OR (2024) Living up your Spanish class with a song in your heart, Sybil is also active in the Foreign Language Educators of New Jersey (FLENJ), and throughout the years she has been a consistent advocate for Latino students by attending and organizing events at her school community.

Other activities include: AATSP 2022-2024 Board Secondary Representative

AATSP NJ Chapter President

2015 NSE Travel Scholar Recipient

AAPPL Certified Rater

AP Spanish Literature and Culture College Board Rater