"Virginia STARTALK Chinese Academy focuses on using authentic materials to design task-based assessment, using 100% of target language in instruction to make the language learning with purpose. "

Reflections: 

Virginia STARTALK Chinese Academy focuses on using authentic materials to design task-based assessment, using 100% of target language in instruction to make the language learning with purpose. I’ve heard this approach before but was doubtful about it effectiveness because the use of authentic materials may cause students to feel frustrated since they lack many lexical items and structures used in the target language. Through teaching practicum in this program, I was more convinced that learners feel better with authentic materials which can help them involve in the 'real' language with cultural context, as long as teacher provide them with pedagogical support.