Implementing concept-based instruction in the heritage language classroom: A pedagogical proposal

Abstract

Framed within a Sociocultural Theory of Mind approach to Second Language Learning and Development (Lantolf & Poehner, 2014), this article presents a pedagogical proposal for implementing concept-based instruction (C-BI) in the Spanish heritage language (HL) classroom in order to promote the development and internalization of the grammatical concept of aspect. Although aspect has been found to be particularly troublesome for heritage language learners (Montrul, 2009; Silva-Corvalán, 1994), few studies have focused on teaching conceptual development of verbal aspect in the HL classroom. This paper contributes to filling this gap by proposing an innovative pedagogical design aimed at providing HL students with the opportunity to generate and transform a conceptual understanding of aspect through conscious interaction in significant, coherent, and systematic ways.