Paraphrasing is an Essential Conversation Skill!
July 10, 2014
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If English students can accurately paraphrase a reading, a radio segment, or a verbal statement, they can actively participate in common conversations and classroom discussions.…
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Volume Matters – Even in Personal Conversations
July 2, 2014
compellingconversations-admin
Why volume matters, especially in difficult student-teacher conferences “Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.” ―Rollo May (1909-1994) American author…
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Creating Simple ESL Lesson Plans Around Top Ten Lists for Advanced English Classes
July 1, 2014
compellingconversations-admin
Advanced ESL/EFL classes benefit from making top ten lists “Share your knowledge. It’s a way to achieve immortality.” ―Tenzin Gyatso (1950-) 14th Dalai Lama Americans…
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Skype Makes Tutoring English with Clients Across the Globe Easy and Comfortable
June 16, 2014
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Explore the benefits of using Skype to tutor English learners around the world. “A conversation can be made easy. Just ask a question and then…
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Don’t Let Perfectionism Silence You!
August 27, 2012
compellingconversations-admin
Some English students make learning English even more difficult by expecting themselves to speak “perfect”, with “no accent” just like ” a real native English…
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Conversation Tip #9: Ask Clarifying Questions!
September 20, 2010
compellingconversations-admin
What is a clarifying question? What do you mean? Can you be more specific? Can you give us some examples? What do you exactly mean?…
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Library ESL Conversation Clubs Grow
June 16, 2010
compellingconversations-admin
Where can immigrants go to practice their English speaking skills in a relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere? How can American libraries introduce their wonderful resources to new…
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Conversation Tip 5: What has pleasantly surprised you today?
November 8, 2009
compellingconversations-admin
What has pleasantly surprised you today? English teachers can use this question as a writing cue, during student-teacher conferences, or with co-workers. Students, especially at…
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Reading Pleasures and Conversation Starters
September 11, 2009
compellingconversations-admin
Teachers, especially English teachers, love to talk about their summer reading. Reading remains a cheap pleasure and an excellent conversation starter. Can you recommend a…
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Conversation Tip #4: Ask Questions and Take Turns
September 5, 2009
compellingconversations-admin
Asking follow up question can provide clarity and allow our conversation partners to elaborate on details. Use these simple phrases to go beyond hello and…
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