Each summer, language teachers from across the country gather at the CI Summit to deepen their understanding of Comprehensible Input and Acquisition-Driven Instruction. One of the most unique parts of the conference is the Studies—immersive language classes designed specifically for teachers to experience what it feels like to be a novice learner again.
As we continue preparing for this year’s CI Summit, I want to share something that makes this conference truly special.
At many professional development conferences for language teachers, we sit in sessions, take notes, and leave with new ideas to try in our classrooms—and that’s valuable. But the CI Summit offers something different.
At the heart of the conference are the Studies: language classes designed specifically for teachers. This year, you can participate in Arabic, Mandarin, Latin, or German, each taught by expert Acquisition-Driven Instruction (ADI) teachers—what an amazing opportunity!
During the Studies, you step back into the role of a novice language learner. You’ll experience firsthand what it feels like to learn through the very strategies you’re exploring in your Squads.
Instead of just hearing about Comprehensible Input, you experience it!
You’ll feel what it’s like when input is truly just on the edge of being comprehensible (i + 1). You’ll notice how engagement grows when you’re close to understanding, how stories unfold as you piece together meaning, how reading and listening support acquisition, and how classroom culture shapes the entire experience. When the affective filter drops and hesitation disappears, acquisition happens…naturally.
What Teachers Have Said About the Studies
Last year was our first year offering Studies, and here’s what teachers had to say:
“I loved the Cherokee study with Wade. It was unlike anything I’ve experienced at a conference before. It reminded me how important culture, storytelling, and community are in language learning.”
“After taking the German study with Eric, I completely rethought how I structure my novice classes. It was one of those moments where the lightbulb just turns on.”
“Cécile created such a joyful learning environment in the French study. I left feeling energized and excited to bring those same techniques to my students.”
Teachers told us that this part of the CI Summit changed how they think about their classrooms—and about the way they teach. The insights are powerful because you’re not just discussing strategies—you’re living them.
The Studies are one of the reasons the CI Summit has become such a meaningful professional experience for language teachers.
The CI Summit will take place July 15–17 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and I would love for you to experience the Studies for yourself.
But first, a quick question:
When was the last time you had the chance to be a beginner again?
That’s what the Studies offer—a rare opportunity to step into the learner’s seat and experience language acquisition the way our students do.
Register now and choose your Study: German, Arabic, Mandarin, or Latin. Our incredible instructors can’t wait to guide you through techniques that will transform how you teach language.
Learn more and register:
https://cisummit.live
Best,
Erin Almeranti
President, Teacher’s Discovery
P.S. If you haven’t sat in the seat of a beginner in a while, the Studies alone are worth the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CI Summit
What is the CI Summit?
The CI Summit is an in-person professional development conference for world language teachers focused on Comprehensible Input, reading, storytelling, and acquisition-driven instruction.
What are the Studies at the CI Summit?
Studies are immersive language classes where teachers become novice learners and experience Comprehensible Input firsthand.
Where and when is the CI Summit held?
The CI Summit takes place in Cincinnati, Ohio, July 15-17.
Who should attend the CI Summit?
The CI Summit is designed for world language teachers who want to deepen their understanding of comprehensible input and learn practical strategies to increase student engagement and language acquisition.
