# >> K-12 >> Elementary School

How to Use Authentic Materials in a Primary Class

Authentic materials are defined as any material that features a target language being learned in action. They are most often used for teaching foreign languages. Examples of authentic materials include books, magazines, songs, web pages, leaflets, fliers or anything that in some way utilizes or features the target language. According to the British Council, authentic materials are most useful for intermediate and advanced language learners, as beginners may find understanding and interpreting authentic materials difficult. To effectively use authentic materials in a primary class, the relevance of the materials to the topic, target language area and the skills and needs of the students should be assessed. However, using authentic materials generally enhances language learning and allows students to interact with the target language in a meaningful context.

Authentic materials

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a material that fits with a theme or topic in the course and is relevant to the language level of the primary class. For instance, use a coursebook or textbook to extrapolate or build on a particular theme or topic already introduced to the class.
- 2
  Ask the students for ideas in class for materials. Are they interested in watching cartoons or playing a game? Depending on the age of the students in the primary class, gear the choice of authentic materials to something that is applicable to their age and interests.
- 3
  Give the material to the students and assign a task that is relatively simple and undemanding, such as finding out information, circling the use of certain words or phrases, or underlining.
- 4
  After the students have completed the task, work together as a class to share the information, and again go through the material as a class.
- 5
  Introduce the material to the class again, this time giving students a chance to interact with it as it is designed to be used, such as playing a game or dancing to music.

How to Write and Solve Equations With a Perimeter

What Are Some Fun Projects for Ten-Year-Olds That Involve Animals?