Why signals?

Why signals?

Signals are used in LFL so students get more language practise. To do this, all students need to answer at once.

Signals are used so that students will respond as a group. LFL uses two signals. A point-touch signal is used with picture exercises. The signal has two parts, pointing and touching.

Part 1: Pointing

• Look at the picture so the students will look also.
• Point to the picture by holding your finger about a centimetre from the page, just over the letter.
• Ask the questions.
• Hold your finger in the point position for about one second (think time).

A hand-drop signal is used when students are looking at the teacher, not at a picture.

Part 2: Touching

• At the beginning of each step of the exercise, hold out your hand, like you are stopping traffic.
• Keep your hand perfectly still.
• Ask the questions.
• Pause about one second (think time) and then quickly drop your hand.
• As soon as your hand drops, students are to respond.
• Turn to page 23 in LFL Teacher’s Guide. Practise teaching Exercise 1, using the hand-drop signal.