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1. Texas: The Lone Star State

   In: English Teaching Forum 2001, Volume 39, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article gives an introduction to the state of Texas. It begins by outlining the history of Texas, from colonization through statehood. Present geography and a description of east, west, south, and north Texas are also described. Additional websites for further reading are provided. The article is appropriate for intermediate English learners with an interest in various regions of the United States.

2. State and County Fairs: Family Fun Across the USA

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

   This feature article is on state and county fairs, “eagerly awaited celebrations of the nation’s agricultural bounty, love of competition, and community spirit.” The article discusses the history of fairs, where innovations in farm equipment and household appliances are displayed, and people engage in competition, fun, rides, and viewing curiosities. Some characteristics of fairs that are described are animals, education, competition, entertainment, and community involvement. Segments on 4-H and fair food follow the article.

3. Michigan: The Great Lakes State

   In: English Teaching Forum 2009, Volume 47, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article describes Michigan, a US state also known as the “Great Lakes State.” It presents its geography, climate, history, commerce, industry, symbols, and tourist attractions and activities. The article also provides useful websites. It ends with a text about Motown, a legendary music label from Detroit.

4. The Making of a City

   In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 2 Format(s): Text

   This article about urban planning is appropriate for advanced learners. The content discusses city planners, planned cities (e.g. Chicago), zoning laws, and high-rise residential districts. There are many images, a glossary, and a list of related websites. There are two short sections. One is about Columbia, Maryland, the subject of another article in this issue (“Maps and Legends”). Columbia was a completely planned, experimental community. The second section is about rebuilding Cabrini Green, a Chicago neighborhood well known for its poverty and crime.

5. In the Mood: Introducing Pragmatic Awareness at Low Levels

   In: Teaching Pragmatics Format(s): Text, Website

   This lesson in Teaching Pragmatics focuses on raising pragmatic awareness in students using the concept of "mood."

6. The Happy Song

   In: Sing Out Loud Children's Songs Format(s): MP3, Text, Image / Poster / Maps

   Does listening to music make you happy? The Happy Song is a traditional children’s song that encourages movement and rhythm. Download the song, lyrics, and poster.

7. VOA Podcast: American History: A Declaration Seeking Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

   In: VOA Podcasts: Shows in Special English Format(s): Website

   Listen to Voice of America (VOA) Podcast: American History: A Declaration Seeking Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. Podcast from VOA Learning English: About the USA. Stories are written at the intermediate and upper-beginner level and are read one-third slower than regular VOA English.

8. Using Comics in the English Language Classroom

   In: American English Webinars Format(s): Text, Video

   This webinar demonstrates the universality of comics for any language classroom, showing how multi-skill comic activities can be used with students of all ages and ability levels.

9. Alaska! The Last Frontier

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002, Volume 40, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   This article describes Alaska, the 49th state of the U.S. It presents facts about Alaska’s native people and their life style, history, transportation, and education. It also provides a text about “Iditarod,” which is an annual sled-dog race, held in Alaska since 1973.

10. Virginia: The Old Dominion

    In: English Teaching Forum 2009, Volume 47, Number 3 Format(s): Text

    This article describes Virginia. It presents facts about its geography, climate, history, work life, symbols, and tourist attractions and activities. It also provides useful websites about Virginia.

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