Why Are So Many EFL Textbooks So Bland, Boring, and Culturally Tone Deaf?
September 28, 2011
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Why are so many EFL Textbooks so bland, boring, and culturally tone-deaf? Allow me to ask a more polite question. How can English teachers working…
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The Language of Opportunity – Wabash profiles an English Teacher
September 11, 2011
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Most of the book’s prompts ask for recollections or personal opinions.“Whatever perspective you bring to the book, I want you to find validation in some…
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English Teachers Confront the Billion-Person Question
June 5, 2011
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“How can rural Chinese students develop their listening and speaking skills with very limited opportunities to speak with actual native speakers in person?” This question…
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An ESL Author Looks at an ESL website with New Eyes
January 8, 2011
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Sometimes we don’t see what is in front of our eyes. Today I learned a bit more about my own website from a fellow English…
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Dwell in Possibility: Discussing Books Enlivens ESL Classes
December 15, 2010
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Reading remains a great pleasure and a helpful guide. Literature can also enliven our ESL classrooms, and discussing our favorite books opens up new possibilities.…
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Library ESL Conversation Clubs Grow
June 16, 2010
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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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CATESOL Accepts Presentation on Informational Interviews
January 19, 2010
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"Informational Interviews: A Practical, Illuminating Speaking Assignment" will demonstrate the importance and relevance of this unusual assignment for a wide range of ESL students. Although…
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Happy New Decade! How Will We Change? Will We Discuss Change in Our ESL Classes?
December 31, 2009
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One simple method is to make change a topic in our classes. Cities, products, families, schools, and people change. This moment also allows us to…
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Conversation Tip 5: What has pleasantly surprised you today?
November 8, 2009
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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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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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