Recently, I listened to the Strategic Schools podcast by Simon Breakspear, The episode titled “Less.” is just four minutes long, but what an impactful little nugget of wisdom!
The episode reminded me of my late mother’s motto: “Less is more.” It’s a phrase that has guided me not only in life but also in my teaching. The concept of subtraction as a strategy resonates deeply, especially in today’s fast-paced, always-busy world.
In language teaching, especially in the context of Comprehensible Input (CI) strategies, this idea of less is transformational. Narrowing our focus and diving deep rather than spreading wide aligns beautifully with how we help students acquire language naturally and effectively.
How “Less is More” Connects to Comprehensible Input
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Narrow and Deep:
CI strategies emphasize depth over breadth. Instead of overwhelming students with a barrage of vocabulary or grammar points, we focus on a smaller set of high-frequency words and use them in meaningful, engaging contexts. This approach allows students to deeply internalize the language, building fluency and confidence. -
The Super 7 High-Frequency Verbs:
By centering lessons around just seven powerful verbs (e.g., to be, to want, to like, to have), we give students the tools they need to express themselves early and often. These verbs unlock the ability to create sentences, interact meaningfully, and comprehend more complex input as they progress. -
Streamlining Input for Clarity:
The idea of subtraction also applies to the input we provide. By keeping our language simple and focusing on repetition, context, and comprehension, we avoid overwhelming learners. This intentional “less” ensures students feel successful, engaged, and ready to take on more over time. -
Prioritizing Stories Over Rules:
Stories are a cornerstone of CI because they provide a natural, engaging way to learn. Instead of piling on abstract rules or lists, we focus on weaving vocabulary and structures into narratives that students can follow, enjoy, and connect with emotionally.
Why “Less” Matters More Than Ever
In a world that constantly demands more—more resources, more activities, more everything—the reminder to simplify is a gift. As teachers, we don’t have to do it all, and neither do our students. By focusing on what truly matters, we create space for authentic learning to flourish.
Whether it’s in your teaching practice or daily life, I highly recommend this short but thought-provoking episode.
How are you simplifying and streamlining your approach to teaching? I’d love to hear your thoughts! 🌸