Enduring+understandings

Enduring understandings should explain why you teach each lesson, why a student should learn this and many of these should apply to every level. The enduring understandings are for the teacher to present. The essential qustions are for the students. Here is the beginning of a list I made for the enduring understandings (gleaned from various scources), Then take a look at what Mr. Tighe from UBD suggests:
 * Enduring Understandings for FL **April 9, 2012**
 * based on strands of communication, culture, connections, comparisons and community || Essential Questions ||


 * Enduring Understandings for Foreign Languages**


 * Learning Process**

You already have language and communication skills that you can utilize while learning a new language. There are multiple ways to say the same thing. A dictionary does not give you syntax. Learning a language is an on-going process which takes motivation, perseverance and practice. People have different styles of learning a language. You learn from your mistakes so you must have the courage to make them. The recognition and use of patterns of verb forms gives the speaker a wider range of communication skills.


 * Communication**

Cognates, borrowed words and prior experiences facilitate understanding and communication. When reading or listening, some words are more important than others Speaking is not the only form of communication. Body language (can) change statements to questions, affirmations and negations and (can) impact the intensity of a statement. The language we use changes with the situation. Listening is an active part of language acquisition. People appreciate your effort to learn and use their language. Knowing how to “circumlocute” will help one to express complex ideas in simple terms.


 * Community**

Language connects people. Geography influences who we are and how we respond to others. The experience in another culture is much richer if you speak the language of the people with whom you interact. Learning another language puts you into closer contact with a larger section of the global community. Learning a second language will open doors to you professionally and personally.


 * Culture**

Language and culture are interrelated/. Each culture has unique characteristics and values. Cultures influence how people behave and respond to others. Study of other languages and cultures increases awareness of the diversity within and beyond ones’ own culture. The study of another culture should encourage curiosity without juddging. Knowing about another culture should engender respect for the values and traditions of that culture.


 * Connections**

Knowledge of the past helps one understand the present and make decisions about the future. Awareness of the similarities and differences between the structures and writing systems of the target language and English facilitates language acquisition. The study of a second language and culture enables us to make limitless connections between our own lives and myriad aspects of a larger part of society (in art, music, history, economics, cuisine, etc.)


 * Comparisons**

Making comparisons between the way we do and say things with how another culture does and says the same things leads to a greater understanding and appreciation of others.

Comparisons between our world and that of another culture show us that our “way” is not the only way and sometimes not the best or most interesting way.