When teaching at secondary level, it is necessary to take into consideration the features of this level, such as the needs and interests of the students as well as the socio-cultural context. Consequently, we will strengthen motivation and we will facilitate the students´ personal, emotional and social development.
In order to promote an active learning and develop communicative competence it is relevant to invite the students to reflect on the language, to interact, to participate and to develop skills; not only reading, writing, speaking and listening but also life, critical and thinking skills, problem solving, resilience and different social and emotional abilities to enhance confidence, self-esteem, to help teenagers to forge their identity and develop their creativity and expression.
Undoubtedly, we live at a time of vast changes, so at this level it is important to use interesting, stimulating and innovative learning materials and resources and incorporate digital technologies effectively. Moreover, it is useful to asses students during the learning process, to encourage the collaborative work and to develop classroom strategies such as monitoring, modelling and questioning.
To sum up, our most
important role as teachers is to provide the students with significant and
meaningful learning experiences creating a positive, enjoyable and supportive environment
that stimulate the use of the language.
Agostina Tulino.