Site Search

1. Language Anxiety & Classroom Dynamics: A Study of Adult Learners

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002, Volume 40, Number 2 Format(s): Text

   This article discusses the characteristics and needs of adult foreign language learners in terms of the quality of the learning environment in the classroom. It tries to answer what classroom dynamics mean and whether teachers can control and shape it. The article discusses the sources of anxiety and inhibition in the classroom and presents the traits of good classroom dynamics that make the learning environment more relaxed and learner friendly.

2. A View of the Past: The Second Decade (1973 - 1982)

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002, Volume 40, Number 2 Format(s): Text

   This article reflects on the articles published at the second decade of Forum (1973-1982) to reconsider theoretical perspectives and classroom practices that are still relevant today. It discusses two recurring themes. The first addresses the meaning of linguistic competence, and the second relates to the effectiveness of language teaching methods. The article focuses on four major pieces published at different times within that period.

3. The Challenge and Opportunity of Technology: An Interview with Mark Warschauer

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002, Volume 40, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article shares an interview conducted with Mark Warschauer, vice chair of the Department of Education at the University of California and a faculty associate at the university’s Center for Research on Information Technology and Organizations. Warschauer shares his thoughts on different topics in second/foreign language learning and teaching and evaluates the future of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) with Forum readers.

4. A View of the Past: The Fourth Decade (1993 - 2002)

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002, Volume 40, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article reflects on the articles published at the fourth decade of Forum (1993-2002) that present theoretical perspectives and classroom practices discussed over the past ten years. It provides four articles, each of which focuses on a different theme that was preeminent in that decade. These themes consist of the efficacy of using methods developed for ESL contexts in EFL contexts, the use of portfolios as assessment tools, the integration of project work in ESP classes, and teacher autonomy.

5. Individualizing Learning Through Self-Directed Projects

   In: English Teaching Forum 2003, Volume 41, Number 3 Format(s): Text, Image / Poster / Maps

   This article discusses the use of self-directed projects to develop learner independence in academic settings. It describes and gives examples of how self-directed projects are integrated into a teaching situation at Arabian Gulf University. The article discusses how getting students involved in doing self-directed projects can lead to a gain in confidence in their ability to manage their own learning and progress in becoming independent language learners.

6. The Use of Ethics in the EFL Classroom

   In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 4 Format(s): Text

   If students are not meeting their goals, it may be that the reason is non-linguistic. Motivation is an important factor that teachers need to consider. The writer argues that carefully chosen ethics cases can motivate timid students to speak out by removing their fear of making mistakes and by encouraging them to talk about heart-felt beliefs. Since ethics cases may not have clear right and wrong answers, this sets them apart from other discussion topics. Debate will foster critical thinking skills.

7. The Children's Response: TPR and Beyond

   In: English Teaching Forum 2005, Volume 43, Number 1 Format(s): Text

   This article describes a technique called The Children’s Response, which can be used to teach young EFL learners. The technique is based on Total Physical Response (TPR), which actively involves children from kindergarten to beyond third grade. The article offers three lessons that provide practice with the form and function of the present and past tense as well as prepositions and imperative commands.

8. Classroom Techniques: Unleashing Writing Creativity in Students

   In: English Teaching Forum 2005, Volume 43, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article argues for free, creative writing in the L2 classroom. The author states that because writing can be stressful and at times paralyzing, the goal of L2 writing should not be to produce perfect, error-free work. The teacher should be a coach, dictionary, and grammar book. The author includes creative writing activities.

9. Getting Students to Speak Up: Classroom Atmosphere Is Key

   In: English Teaching Forum 2022, Volume 60, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   The author describes a challenge that is familiar to many language teachers: trying to get students to speak up independently, share thoughts, and participate authentically in the target language. The article includes general and specific tips for creating a comfortable, communicative classroom environment.

10. Alphabet Dance

    In: Teacher's Corner: Using Art in the English Language Classroom Format(s): Text

    Get your students moving! This week’s Teacher’s Corner is great for beginner level young learners. Learn how to use dance to reinforce English literacy skills—in particular, the alphabet.

Pages