Making Your Language Classroom More Authentic: Materials and Practices

Language learning thrives when students engage with materials and practices that reflect real-world use of the target language. Yet many classrooms rely heavily on textbooks and artificial exercises that, while structured, may not mirror authentic language experiences. This session explores practical strategies for making your classroom more authentic, both in the materials you choose and the practices you implement.

We will examine what “authenticity” really means in language teaching and why it matters for learner motivation. 

Teachers are sometimes worried their students are not equipped to work with genuine, authentic real-world texts. Participants will learn how to incorporate authentic texts - such as news articles, social media posts, and videos - into lesson plans, and how to adapt these materials to different proficiency levels. Beyond materials, we will explore practices that mirror real-life language use, including project-based learning, role-plays, problem-solving tasks, and collaborative discussions.

Teachers will leave with actionable ideas for creating lessons that feel relevant and meaningful, fostering engagement and long-term language retention.

Whether you teach beginners or advanced students, this session will provide tools to make your classroom a space where language comes alive. By the end, participants will be equipped to transform traditional lessons into more immersive, authentic learning experiences that connect classroom learning with the real world.