A typical lesson takes between one and four hours and comprises a few instances of the target language embedded in a sample text, which takes approximately one minute to read aloud at a conversational pace. The students are relaxed at the class' onset then the text is read aloud by the teacher once at a normal pace, then a second time quite slowly with emphasis on the important words (whatever they may be, as decided by the teacher). The text is then repeated a third time as it is sung loudly and dramatically, set to a Baroque piece of music.
After this, the target language is isolated and practised through games where the answers are obvious and can be worked out logically (without any knowledge of the language). The class concludes with all students singing the same sample text together, and a final subduing of the active mind, using any method of relaxation preferred by the teacher and students. It's all quite fascinating really, and very different to a typical lesson.
I didn't want to give myself a lesson based on a biblical passage, but I was interested in using the initial methods of textual reading with a chapter, and seeing the influence and effect on reading in this way. I'm quite keen on the suggestopedia method generally, and find it a useful way to commence a series of complicated language lessons and ignite students' passion in the topic. As I was uncertain and hesitant about beginning my Eastertide studies, I thought this would be invaluable at this time.
I found a text, which I felt suited my mood at this time (1 Corinthians 2) and read through it at my usual reading pace. I then read it more quickly focussing on the words which I found most noticeable the first time I read through it. I emphasised these words by reading them more slowly and loudly, and 'chewing' over them in my mind. I then found a piece of music which seemed to match my mood and the content of the passage: Sempre Una Canzone (www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdEH5SYIG38), and sang it through a few times. The first time, I sang it through dramatically, the second more slowly, concentrating on the overall message that appeared to me, and the third time in time and tempo to the music. I concluded by reading through the text a last time at my usual reading speed.
I found this method interesting and exciting. I'm not sure I'll remember much about the passage itself when I look at it again, but I feel more peaceful, affirmed and aware of the purposes of my adventure through the texts. I also feel empowered and thrilled at the prospect of the next forty days. My conclusions with today's method are similar to my overall impressions of suggestopedia, in that the technique has a lot more to do with affective learning rather than effective learning, and its lasting impression on the emotions and attitudes of the students/ reader are much more significant than any deeper change in memory retention of the passage or biblical revelations.
Above all, I think it's a fun method that everyone should try (maybe in the comforts of an empty house) to rekindle a passion for the scriptures. Just don't expect too much greatness from it.
No comments:
Post a Comment