Well I finally did it! I got on Blogger and will now be able to share my news and ideas about teaching FSL and using AIM.

Why I like AIM.

The Accelerative Integrated Method is an incredibly effective method for teaching second language.

What is the AIM?

Accelerated – Means it is possible to reach Immersion level fluency in just 30 minutes a day. (In the Core French program, this is 90 hours of instruction- one scholastic year.)

Integrated – Means that learning is achieved through interaction in spontaneous classroom contexts, using drama, music and dance to foster an emotional connection to L2.

Method – Means that there is a systematic use of tools and techniques, (gestures, linguistic routines, TLSE, IPG, sandwiching, PDL, focus on verbs, inductive approach to grammar, target language only, clustering language patterns, word association, scaffolding, comprehension checks, active learning, pleasant repetition, content based holarchical approach) when teaching L2.

I have experienced tremendous success teaching French using the AIM. I have been able to reach levels of oral, reading and written fluency that I was never able to achieve with language programs using a thematic, noun-focused approach, and I am able to do so in less than 90 hours of instruction, or roughly 40 minutes a day. Until AIM, I didn’t have a method for teaching oral French. It was very frustrating because the Ontario curriculum mandates the teaching of oral fluency but there were no tools to achieve that. AIM has provided me with the tools, strategies and techniques necessary to teach students of all ages and with different learning styles, to reach a functional level of fluency, including the teaching of difficult grammar concepts using songs, raps, plays and dance. Learning is authentic and practical. Lessons follow a 4 part lesson plan made up of entry routines, teacher-led self-expression activities, independent, paired and group work, and leaving routines. Pared-down language is taught using gestures, sandwiching, clustering, word association and opposites. Through active learning (choral speaking) and pleasant repetition, I can scaffold language learning in a fun, friendly, non-threatening environment. With the use of coupons and points system, I can ensure that only the target language is being used in the classroom. AIM provides me with everything I need to be able to successfully teach French, and have amazing results in a relatively short period of time. I cannot imagine teaching without using the AIM.

With AIM creator, Wendy Maxwell 2005