Setting online MFL homework – ideal for reducing teacher workload and motivating reluctant learners

Homework is a valuable tool for reinforcing classroom learning and fostering academic growth. In secondary schools, it plays a crucial role in helping students make substantial progress in their studies. It not only consolidates classroom teachings but also instils discipline, time management skills, and a sense of responsibility in students, preparing them for the challenges of their next steps in education and the working world.

Well-planned homework serves as a bridge between classroom instruction and independent learning. In language learning, it should reinforce students’ understanding of key concepts. This process of revisiting and practicing material at home contributes significantly to knowledge retention and skill development.

Homework also cultivates self-discipline and time management skills, essential attributes for success in both academic and real-world scenarios. Students learn to allocate their time effectively, balancing homework with extracurricular activities and personal responsibilities. This skill set becomes increasingly important as students progress through their education and face more demanding academic challenges.

Setting online homework, particularly in learning a foreign language, adds an important dimension. Digital platforms such as Sanako Connect offer a dynamic and interactive space for language practice, making the learning experience more engaging and motivating for students. In a world where technology is an integral part of daily life, incorporating online homework aligns education with the digital preferences of our students. Software such as Sanako Connect also gives students automatic feedback on their performance without the need for a teacher being present, and also marks homework, which the teacher can see, thus saving valuable time and reducing teacher workload.

The flexibility of online homework using Sanako Connect allows students to practice language skills at their own pace and convenience. This adaptability accommodates the diverse learning styles and schedules of students, making it easier for them to integrate language learning into their daily lives, as they can use it on the go, on their mobile phone while on a car journey for example.

As students witness their progress through interactive feedback and performance metrics, they are motivated to invest more time and effort into their language studies. Here’s an example of what the teacher sees once the student has submitted pronunciation activities. The teacher can see how many attempts the student has made, the score for the final attempt and even listen to the final version

Clare Temple from Ysgol Clywedog, Wrexham says:

Sanako Connect is a brilliant way to motivate my students in their language learning and to build their confidence. In particular, Y9 boys love to get immediate feedback on their pronunciation and it gives them an incentive to keep practising until they get it right!  They actually want to do their homework when I set exercises using Sanako Connect!

I believe that it will only become even more important, especially as we look to the new 2026 MFL GCSE, which will hopefully increase the uptake on MFL in England, to leverage digital tools, which align with the technological preferences of students but also enhance the effectiveness of language learning, ultimately preparing students for a globally connected and competitive future.

Wendy Adeniji