Languages are FUNdamental: Re-Engaging Gen Z in Language Learning

Today’s high school students are not the same learners who walked into our classrooms five or ten years ago. Post-pandemic, they crave connection, play, and purpose—and teachers need fresh strategies to meet them where they are. This session explores practical ways to bring joy back to language learning without sacrificing rigor: from gamified tasks and pop culture tie-ins to community-building activities that make students actually want to speak. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas to reanimate your classroom, recharge your students, and rediscover your own joy in teaching.