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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. Module 6: Managing Large Classes

   In: Shaping the Way We Teach English: Successful Practices Around the World Format(s): Text, Video

   This Module of the Shaping the Way we Teach English Series contains a lesson plan and accompanying video that is focused on how to manage large classes.

3. Keeping Discipline in the Classroom

   In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 3 Format(s): Text

   This article discusses the challenges of keeping order in the classroom and provides suggestions for fostering an environment of mutual respect. The article looks at what students expect of teachers as well as temporary games and long-term strategies that students use to take control from the teacher. Some practical solutions to discipline problems include keeping students’ attention, establishing clear rules together, and addressing discipline problems by using nonverbal and verbal cues before reacting to the problem.

4. Shall We Dance: Team Teaching as Supervision in the English Language Classroom

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

   This article compares team teaching to a dance in which leadership shifts from partner to partner. It argues for the use of team teaching as an effective and motivating means of professional development. The author shares his experience in team teaching and offers a list of steps that can be used to establish and maintain team teaching that is effective for both the professionals and their students, such as when to involve students and when to trade roles.

5. Laugh and Learn: Thinking Over the "Funny Teacher" Myth

   In: English Teaching Forum 2001, Volume 39, Number 1 Format(s): Text

   The author in this article presents laughter and fun as an important part of a language classroom. The author suggests that when you laugh you learn better. Humor is introduced as a way to increase motivation and decrease anxiety. The author defines the “funny teacher” as a serious professional who uses humor to provide students with an enjoyable journey through learning. Activities are suggested for increasing fun and learning in the language classroom.

6. Curiosity and Comprehension

   In: English Teaching Forum 2012, Volume 50, Number 2 Format(s): Text

   This article, originally published in 1977, offers teachers techniques to pique students’ curiosity, making a case that curiosity spurs comprehension and initiative.

7. Out of Your Seat Grammar!

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

   This webinar "Out of Your Seat Grammar" demonstrates fresh ideas for introducing and practicing grammar as well as blending communicative activities with assigned text books and curriculums.

8. Minimizing the Chaos through Cooperative Classroom Management

   In: English Teaching Forum 2013, Volume 51, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article discusses techniques for organizing large classes to allow smooth transitions from whole-class discussions to individual and group work.

9. Quick Start Guide

   In: Trace Effects Teacher's Manual Format(s): Text

   The Trace Effects Quick Start Guide instructs teachers and players on how to play Trace Effects, the exciting, collaborative English language learning game developed by the Department of State. The guide provides information on logging in, gameplay, and installing the Trace Effects DVD for use in home and lab environments.

10. Building Your Toolkit: Steps and Strategies for Teaching Academic Writing

    Format(s): Text, Video

    This webinar, Building Your Toolkit: Steps and Strategies for Teaching Academic Writing, provides participants with five specific steps and several strategies they can use in teaching academic writing in their own contexts.

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