PACE Project: Language, Identity, and Mental Health—Building Voice through Conversation and Analysis
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-12-2025
Abstract
Informed by the theoretical foundations articulated in the accompanying PACE theory paper, this application project presents a complete instructional unit designed for upper-beginner to lower-intermediate Spanish learners in a community college context. Centered on the grammatical structure sentirse + adjective and the theme of mental health and well-being, the unit applies the PACE sequence to guide students from global interpretation of an authentic Spanish-language public health text (MedlinePlus Revista) to meaningful interpersonal and presentational communication. The project demonstrates backward design, with clear alignment among objectives, instruction, formative assessment, and a summative performance-based task. Special attention is given to accessibility, neurodiversity, and emotional safety through choice-based tasks, multimodal participation, and opt-out options for personal disclosure. Appendices include authentic text excerpts, guided noticing charts, interpersonal practice prompts, a student-friendly assessment checklist, and an analytic rubric, making the project a classroom-ready pedagogical resource for Spanish instructors.
Recommended Citation
Kapustka, Brian, "PACE Project: Language, Identity, and Mental Health—Building Voice through Conversation and Analysis" (2025). Faculty and Staff Scholarship. 10.
https://dc.cod.edu/languages_fac_staff/10