How Many Languages
Do You Speak?
A short-term web quest designed to spark an interest in language in the minds
of middle-schoolers (or anyone else, for that matter.)
Designed by Cyndi Tuttle Grasso
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
A message to teachers and students;
This Web Quest is designed to encourage students to recognize the value of the knowledge of a second language.
My first memory of a language other than my native language of English, was when I was eight years old. My parents brought my brother and me on an unforgettable trip to Mexico. I am sure that that trip, taken so many years ago, sparked my interest in foreign language and cultures.
I've always known that it was "fun" to know another language, but until recently, I didn't realize how valuable that knowledge could be.
Most of us have heard that the earlier we begin experiencing a language, the easier it is to master. I think that now is better than never, so why not give it a try? Our world is changing faster than most of us realize and today we have so many options for learning and sharing our cultures and ideas. Knowledge of a second (or third or fourth) language is a wonderful way to participate in this cultural exchange.
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
Have you ever been in a situation where you have seen or heard people talking and not been able to understand what is being said?
Can you imagine how many more people you could communicate with if you were capable of speaking even one more language?
Knowledge of a Second Language is like an Invitation to a Fabulous Party; One that will last a lifetime, and open doors to an infinite number of opportunities!
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
We find ourselves in a wonderful place in time...The beginning of a new millenium! What an excellent time to reach out and embrace new ideas, new cultures and new friends!
I would like all of you to take a deep breath and consider changing your lives!
Think about how your life might be different (now, or in the future), if you could speak more than one language.
Think about what your life might be like right now if everyone around you were speaking a language you didn't understand.
Think about the contributions you could make to your community if you understood the language and culture of immigrants who may be making their homes there.
In order to gain a better understanding of the ups and downs of "foreign" language experiences, we are going to be pretending to "walk in someone elses shoes". (Otherwise known as "Role-Playing.")
Click here
for a new pair of shoes 
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
Once you have chosen your new role, you have a small list of tasks to accomplish:
1. Follow the links listed with your particular role and gather information about the sites you have visited and be prepared to share this info with your group.
2. Keeping your particular role in mind, present a 2-minute persuasive speech to your fellow group members, convincing them of the benefits (or, if you are the "grinch", the nuisances or disadvantages) of knowing a second language or sign language.
3. As a group, you will be asked to present your ideas to the class using one of the following artistic methods:
A skit which demonstrates conflict/resolution and incorporates what you have learned about a foreign language or sign language.
A collage using magazine cut-outs or computer generated art ('Kid Pix' or 'Paint' are good possibilities). Your collage should depict various examples of communication.
A song or rap that communicates to the class why you would or would not like to learn a second language.
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
Most of this web Quest can be accomplished with a few basic supplies.
Students are asked to visit several web sites to gather information on their specific topics. Links to each site are provided at convenient locations throughout the quest.
In addition to computers and printers, students are invited to use lots of crayons, markers, glue, paper, voices, music and dramatics.
The biggest resource of all is your brain ! Think, think, think!
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
Your Grade!
Keep in mind that there are no "right" or "wrong" conclusions in this Web Quest. Everyone's opinion counts. You will be graded on the amount of effort you put into learning about this particular subject. You will also be graded according to how well the members of your group share and present their new information.
Please click on the Red Pencil to review the grading criteria which will be used to evaluate your efforts.
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion
Congratulations! You have completed a quest to gain knowledge and increase your brain power!
The conclusion is your chance to analyze and examine your findings. Challenge yuorself to ask one more question to gain one more answer!
Putting yourself in someone else's shoes was supposed to cause you to think about this subject differently than you might have ordinarily. Do you think that happened?
Do you think you were accepting of other group members ideas?
If a conflict or difference of opinion came up, were you able to resolve your differences?
Do you think you would like to learn a second language some day?
Overview|Introduction|Quest(ions)|Process|Resources|Evaluation|Conclusion