ACTFL Proficiency Pyramid

thingiverse

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) is a leading organization dedicated to promoting and assessing language learning in the United States. This project revolutionizes the ACTFL "inverted pyramid" proficiency leveling poster by re-creating it in 3D, allowing students to grasp the complexities of each level with clarity. Designed for easy assembly and disassembly, this innovative model enables students to compare levels and take apart the pyramid to understand their progression. Instructors can also present the pyramid up to a certain level, providing a dynamic learning experience. While built around the ACTFL test, the divisions are roughly equivalent to the AAPPL test (which divides each section into 5 instead of 3). The goal of this project is to empower students and teachers by demystifying each level's requirements and effort involved in achieving them. Many students get frustrated with their perceived lack of progress, unaware that each level demands significantly more skill and knowledge. This project is particularly beneficial for universities, high schools, and institutions where the Seal of Biliteracy is available. There are currently 11 files available: * Eight files correspond to the levels of the pyramid, featuring "Novice" as a distinct section and "Distinguished" at the top of the "Superior" level. * Three files are for the base, including an optional dowel print in case a 7/16" / 8mm wooden dowel is not accessible. Required Materials: * 40 strong magnets (8x1 mm) to hold the levels securely - https://amzn.to/310YC3x * 5/16" / 8 mm wooden dowel, cut into 18 cm long segments for the Base * Superglue * Paint (optional) Future Updates: I am actively working on completing the painting of the "Distinguished" level for the final image and developing a scalable 3D model of the full pyramid. Credits: This project is inspired by the ACTFL 2012 proficiency guidelines, designed for non-profit educational use. Please credit ACTFL should you choose to utilize or replicate this project. Additionally, this project may not be printed and sold except at-cost or as needed (as many language teachers do not have personal access to a 3D printer, but their school may). More information about the ACTFL proficiency guidelines can be found here: http://bit.ly/2MxR6Ia Tips are always appreciated and will be allocated towards classroom use.