Episode 171: Boost Comprehension and Engagement With ClipChat: A Guide for Language Teachers with Amy Marshall

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If you’ve ever found yourself searching for an activity that is engaging, meaningful, and actually supports language acquisition, this episode is for you. Many of us want our students to feel confident understanding and using the language — without us spending hours planning something new every day.

In this conversation, I’m joined by Amy Marshall, a world language teacher with over 25 years of classroom experience, known for her thoughtful use of ClipChat. ClipChat blends short films with teacher-guided narration to build comprehension in a way that feels natural, visual, and compelling. Students watch, listen, and make meaning — and we guide the language to match what they need.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What ClipChat is and why it works to support real acquisition
• How to choose the right video clips for different levels
• Why slowing down can actually boost student confidence and understanding
• How small student responses (“guided output”) create a natural pathway for teachers to give even more input
• Practical routines like Write & Discuss, acting with whisper support, puppets, gallery walks, and picture grid listening
• How one short clip can carry your class for days or even weeks — without adding more planning to your plate

This episode is full of strategies that work in real classrooms — including the classes that are wiggly, chatty, distracted, or just tired.

If you’re working to design world language classes rooted in comprehension, communication, and cultural connection, you’ll find something here to take with you tomorrow.

Resources Mentioned

• Read the blog here
• ClipChat Examples & Classroom Materials:
  Zona de Profes on TPT — https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Zona-De-Profes
• Amy’s Website: https://zonadeprofes.weebly.com
• Short Film Playlist for ClipChat: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKhH5MAAh6FpSBBumo6Cv8lG_iS8Q9Lpz
• Free November Resource: Download Here: https://growingwithproficiency.com/diadegracias
• Join the Academy Waitlist: https://growingwithproficiency.com/academy-waitlist
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• Growing With Proficiency TPT Store
• Free FB Community

Be Part of the Community

If this episode inspired a new idea, I’d love to hear about it. Tag me on Instagram @claudiamelliott and share which clip you’d like to try — or send me a DM and I’ll help you brainstorm one.

Make sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation. We grow by learning together — we learn, we try, we grow, and then we pass it on.

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