Episode 167: Rethinking Intermediate Classes with Comprehensible Input: A Conversation with Gary DiBianca

Growing With Proficiency The Podcast

Content provided by Claudia Elliott, World Language educator, Claudia Elliott, and World Language educator. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Claudia Elliott, World Language educator, Claudia Elliott, and World Language educator or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

28d ago 53:46

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Does comprehensible input still matter at the intermediate level? Absolutely. In this conversation with Gary DiBianca, he shares how he “levels up” intermediate classes by centering CI, intentionally modeling structures students can recycle (time frames, connectors, question stems), and layering authentic resources that stretch comprehension without overwhelming learners.

You’ll hear:

What changes—and what doesn’t—at intermediate: same CI foundation, deeper themes, tighter recycling, and clear routines.
Goals that motivate growth: build confidence, boost spontaneous output, and move toward Intermediate High targets while honoring each student’s starting point.
Planning that works: start with an anchor text/story written for learners, then layer authentic materials (infographics, short news videos, songs, podcast clips) and guided discussion.
Intentional structures > grammar dumps: model multiple time frames (present, past, future, would), connectors/transition words, and question formation inside meaningful input; zoom in on form only when it serves comprehension.
Keep it fun: why story-asking and playful tasks still matter at upper levels.
From input to output: scaffolded discussion days, visible vocabulary, sentence starters, and rubrics that cue learners to agree/disagree, ask follow-ups, give examples, and actually move the conversation.

Try tomorrow: run a Cultural Picture Talk for Intermediates. Model the language you want to hear later—then watch output grow.

Resources mentioned:

Gary DiBianca Resources

Socratic Seminar: Gary DiBianca

More resources:

Join the waitlist for Growing With Proficiency: The Spanish Teacher Academy → growingwithproficiency.com/academy
Follow me on Instagram @claudiamelliott
📑 Discover culturally rich, month-specific resources for Spanish classes in my TPT Store: Growing With Proficiency.

188 episodes

#Claudia Elliott #Podcasting Education #World #Language #Comprehension #Input #Proficiency #Second #Acquisitions #Spanish