Mason based her language program on two things:
1) Her own methods for the English language (oral work, narration, recitation, copywork, dictation, grammar, and original composition), and
2) The research of François Gouin, who introduced the “series.”
Gouin’s research has been built upon in recent years by Stephen Krashen’s work on a natural approach to second-language acquisition. Comprehensible Input (CI) teaching methods, including Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling (TPRS), are derived from Krashen’s Input Hypothesis. The Alveary’s approach to languages is presented in a way that supports teachers who are not fluent in the target language.
Modern Language (24 min.)
In this video, Rachel Miller explains the key principles of Mason's approach to modern language. These approaches include oral language, narration, literature, songs, rhymes, and comprehensible input. She also discusses the connection between Mason's methods and modern theories of second-language acquisition.
TPR (Total Physical Response)
Rachel Miller gives an overview of TPR and how to use this method in your modern language lessons.
Modern Language Lesson Plans (Forms 1-2) (17 min.)
Modern Language Lesson Plans (Forms 3-6) (17 min.)
Reflection
Respond to the following in the comments or in your journal:
1) What new insight did you glean from the videos? What will you implement with your students?
2) Explain the way that modern languages should be taught in a Mason education.
3) What are your challenges when it comes to modern language? What is the next step you can take to address those challenges?
4) What are you wondering?
In Mason's Own Words
Read Home Education, Part 5, Section 20 in its original text and/or in modern English.
"The Family should (a) learn Languages; (b) show Courtesy abroad.––Let us ask the question: Has this, of regarding all education and all civil and social relations from the standpoint of the family, any practical outcome? So much so, that perhaps there is hardly a problem of life for which it does not contain the solution. For example: What shall we teach our children? Is there one subject that claims our attention more than another? Yes, there is a subject or class of subjects which has an imperative moral claim upon us. It is the duty of the nation to maintain relations of brotherly kindness with other nations; therefore it is the duty of every family, as an integral part of the nation, to be able to hold brotherly speech with the families of other nations as opportunities arise; therefore to acquire the speech of neighbouring nations is not only to secure an inlet of knowledge and a means of culture, but is a duty of that higher morality (the morality of the family) which aims at universal brotherhood; therefore every family would do well to cultivate two languages besides the mother tongue, even in the nursery" (Parents and Children, p. 7).
Further Reading
WordReference.com Recommended website for translating, as it is updated regularly.
