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The Reflective Portfolio: Two Case Studies from the United Arab Emirates

In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 1 Format(s): Text

This article explains the benefits of using portfolios, an alternative assessment tool, to assess writing. The author identifies the characteristics of alternative assessment. Portfolios evaluate student progress over time and can include revisions. They are based on activities that show what students can do with language. Portfolios emphasize strengths and involve reflection by the student. Case studies show how portfolios were used in English courses at two universities. The authors advise allowing time for reflection and training in self-evaluation.

To the Moon! — A Launch Pad for Encouraging Students to Express Their Opinions

In: English Teaching Forum 2011, Volume 49, Number 4 Format(s): Text

Writing a persuasive essay can be a challenging task. This article outlines an activity that involves developing, communicating, and exploring opinions. Students work individually to select volunteers to go to the moon. Groups then try to agree on the selection, discussing their reasons and assumptions. A number of letter-writing assignments incorporate material from the discussions. This student-centered activity can improve confidence, critical thinking skills, and writing fluency, while students learn from and challenge each other.

The Lighter Side: The Write Stuff

In: English Teaching Forum 2012, Volume 50, Number 1 Format(s): Text

Do you like puzzles and words? Then check out this English Teaching Forum crossword puzzle.

Process Writing and the Internet: Blogs and Ning Networks in the Classroom

In: English Teaching Forum 2011, Volume 49, Number 2 Format(s): Text

This article presents a student-centered technique for teaching writing to ESL and EFL students who are familiar with Internet-based technology. There are two classroom lessons which use blogs (an Internet-based diary tool accessible by many) and Ning networks (an Internet-based network created for small groups for a small fee). A process-writing concept focuses on students’ social relationships and interests. Step-by-step directions are included for teachers and students who may be less familiar with these two technologies.

Teacher's Corner: Conditionals

Format(s): Text

This month we’ll take a closer look at some of the ways conditionals function and how we can provide students meaningful (and fun!) ways to practice using these grammatical forms.

Other Poems

In: Poetry Format(s): Text

Do you like surprises? Read a poem from this month’s selection of poems by English language learners. These poems are not categorized by theme or topic, so choose a poem and enjoy the surprise of where it takes you!

The Exquisite Corpse Adventure

Format(s): Website

The Exquisite Corpse is a friendly game that allows you to make a creative story. Read and listen along to a series of 27 free exquisite corpse stories then learn how you can make one with your friends.

Why English? Comics for the Classroom

Format(s): Text

This resource can be used by teachers and learners. It includes notes for teachers and activities to use in the classroom at the end of each story.

Lesson Plan: A Day at the Fair

In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 3 Format(s): Text

This issue’s lesson plan, “A Day at the Fair” follows the feature article on state and county fairs. After reading a summary of the article, learners are asked to list things they might experience with their senses at a fair. The terms may be used in a role play. Group members select roles and make decisions about how to spend a day at the fair according to the preferences on their cards. The lesson concludes with a reflection on decisions made during the role play.

The Lighter Side: Fishy Fun