Using STEM to Develop Language Proficiency and Academic Discourse
Presented During:
Saturday, November 21, 2026: 4:30 PM - 4:45 PM CST
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Room:
Room 213A
Proposal No:
3148
Type:
Practice-Oriented Paper
Applicable Language:
Non-language specific
Language of Presentation:
English
Lead Presenter:
Antonella Cassia
University Miami
Submitter:
Antonella Cassia
University Miami
Content and Purpose:
As interdisciplinary learning becomes more visible across curricula, language teachers are increasingly asked how their courses connect to broader academic and professional fields. This practice-oriented presentation shows how STEM-related themes (environmental sciences, natural hazards, technology) can serve as a framework for intermediate-level language instruction across world languages. Rather than relying on simplified materials, the presentation demonstrates how intermediate learners work with extended texts, structured readings, visuals, maps, and data to develop language proficiency and academic discourse. Classroom examples illustrate how STEM themes support narration, explanation, comparison, and emerging argumentation. Tasks move from guided comprehension to more independent interpersonal and presentational language use. The presentation will also provide sample syllabus structures already in use and curriculum sequences illustrating progression and assessment alignment.
Outcomes:
design communicative language tasks using STEM themes
scaffold scientific content for diverse proficiency levels
assess language growth through interdisciplinary materials
Program Guide Description:
This practice-oriented presentation shows how STEM-related themes (environmental sciences, natural hazards, technology), can serve as a sustained organizing framework for intermediate-level language instruction across world languages.
Audience Level:
Post-Secondary
Keywords:
Interdisciplinary
You have unsaved changes.