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1. VoIM-Mediated Cooperative Tasks for English Language Learners

   In: English Teaching Forum 2008, Volume 46, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article discusses how computer-mediated communication, negotiation of meaning, and cooperative task-based learning can be combined in a VoIM-mediated activity to benefit language learners. The author starts with a brief review of how the three aspects of learning can benefit language learners. The author then describes a VoIM-mediated cooperative task. The rest of the article explains how to set up the activity, including technical requirements, planning in eight stages, and materials selection.

2. A Questionnaire Project: Integrating the Four Macro Skills with Critical Thinking

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 1 Format(s): Text

   This article describes the steps of a questionnaire project that uses listening, speaking, reading and writing while developing interpretation skills and self-regulation. The project creates survey questions, collects and analyzes data, and reports results. While students work in groups, they have opportunities to brainstorm, express opinions, and ask for clarification. The article includes tips on time constraints, evaluation of data, participation, and topic selection.

3. Reflection as a Necessary Condition for Action Research

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 1 Format(s): Text

   This article explores the idea that teachers can improve their practice through reflection and action research. The author discusses the constructivist and socio-constructivist roots of action research. The case study explores the use of a project to improve learner autonomy and cooperation. Students made key decisions about the project content, the size of the groups, and the roles that each member would play. To evaluate the experience, the instructor asked students open-ended questions. A colleague-observer filled out rating scales about instructor and student behaviors.

4. A Classroom Response to HIV/AIDS - Project Proposal Writing

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 1 Format(s): Text

   This article describes a task-based writing project. High-school students in Zambia wrote a proposal to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in their community. By writing on a topic related to their lives, students were motivated and empowered to use their English skills for positive change. The project was an interactive workshop that invited a community leader to help with brainstorming, the setting of ground rules, and understanding of the issue. Students worked together on their responses and drafted and revised a proposal that was based on a model from UNICEF.

5. Developing Dynamic Units for EFL

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 2 Format(s): Text

   “Developing Dynamic Units for EFL” describes how to develop a thematic unit that integrates skills in context, provides opportunities for learner autonomy, and is project-based and experiential. Planning includes identifying curriculum standards, thinking of a meaningful topic, brainstorming tasks, organizing the activities, and making use of learner choice. The sample unit “Eating Out with Friends” includes the topics of inviting friends; choosing a restaurant and making a reservation; finding and communicating directions; ordering and requesting the bill; and thanking friends and retelling the story.

6. Using Letters to Tell Stories in the EFL Classroom

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

   This article discusses how letter writing can be used as authentic language use. An activity for beginners involves an exchange of letters of introduction between the instructor and students. This serves a socially meaningful interactional purpose. The second activity is the construction of an story, one in which the plot is expressed in a series of letters. The writer suggests using letter exchanges for this creative writing project after using books such as The Color Purple. Letter writing is one way to enable and empower students to tell their own stories.

7. Chapter 4: Individual Responsibilities and Citizenship

   In: Language and Civil Society E-Journal: Civic Education Format(s): Text

   This chapter in the Civic Education volume of the Language and Civil Society e-journal focuses on the responsibilities that come with citizenship.

8. Chapter 7: Societal Dilemmas: Finding a Balance

   In: Language and Civil Society E-Journal: Civic Education Format(s): Text

   This chapter in the Civic Education volume of the Language and Civil Society e-journal focuses on the tensions that exist between the values, needs, and interests of individuals and those of society at large.

9. Chapter 8: Societal Dilemmas: Gains and Losses

   In: Language and Civil Society E-Journal: Civic Education Format(s): Text

   This chapter in the Civic Education volume of the Language and Civil Society e-journal focuses on the "gains" and "losses" that accompany global change.

10. Chapter 10: Building a Civil Society: Breaking Down Stereotypes

    In: Language and Civil Society E-Journal: Civic Education Format(s): Text

    This chapter in the Civic Education volume of the Language and Civil Society e-journal focuses on the importance of breaking down stereotypes as one way to build civil societies.

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