In this dynamic session, educators will explore the transformative power of comprehensible input (CI) as a cornerstone of effective language acquisition. Grounded in research and classroom-tested strategies, this workshop reaffirms CI’s central role in fostering authentic communication, deepening linguistic proficiency, and supporting diverse learners across proficiency levels.
Participants will:
Whether you're a seasoned CI advocate or newly curious about its classroom impact, this session offers actionable insights, collaborative reflection, and ready-to-use resources to elevate your language teaching practice.
Teaching with authentic materials in the Spanish dual language classroom is a challenging task. Finding the right materials, carefully curated to include authentic resources from across the Spanish-speaking world that also support US academic standards and cultural norms is an even greater challenge. In this session, participants will interact with materials and activities that develop content knowledge and metalinguistic awareness while building cultural and intercultural competence to create a foundation for global citizenship.

Barbara Jones has had a distinguished career in both education and educational publishing. In her capacity as teacher and campus leader, she worked extensively in literacy and biliteracy development, leading the first dual language program in a suburban Houston district. Her university work included teaching courses in biliteracy development, English as a Second Language, and guiding graduate students in educational research projects. Barbara’s work in educational publishing includes designing, developing, and delivering customized professional development in literacy and biliteracy development, English as a Second Language, and Spanish as a world language. She has authored Spanish literacy programs and curated Planeta Lector, authentic Spanish class libraries for grades K-6.

El Dr. Pablo L. Martínez Torres es Estratega Instruccional en Edinumen USA, donde aporta su experiencia curricular y pedagógica para fortalecer la enseñanza de lenguas basada en competencias mediante el uso de input comprensible. Entre 2014 y 2025 se desempeñó como Supervisor del Programa de Lenguas en las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Polk, liderando la transición de metodologías centradas en la gramática hacia enfoques orientados a la comunicación activa a través de los diversos modos de comunicación (interpretativo, interpersonal y presentacional). Expresidente de Florida Foreign Language Managers in Education-Florida World Languages Supervisors y exmiembro de la junta directiva de Florida Foreign Language Association, ha sido reconocido en dos ocasiones como Supervisor de Lenguas del Año en Florida. En el ámbito académico dirige comités de tesis doctorales en la Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico, dentro del Programa de Doctorado en Investigación sobre la Adquisición de Segundas Lenguas. Además, participa activamente como conferencista, consultor y colaborador en publicaciones educativas.

16:00 - 18:00 (Dallas, Texas)
All participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance, plus enjoy light refreshments, and get the chance to win trips to Spain and exclusive scholarship opportunities.