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1. The Wit of Porportuk

   In: To Build a Fire and Other Stories Format(s): Text

   In this story from To Build a Fire and Other Stories, an old and ill chief has a large debt and cannot find the means to pay it. The lender, Porportuk, offers to have the debt waived if the chief gives away his daughter.

2. Teacher Supervision: Moving Towards an Interactive Approach

   In: English Teaching Forum 2003, Volume 41, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   Supervision is a standard part of most language programs. However, teachers often respond negatively to supervision. Adopting a teacher-centered, democratic, clear, and systematic model for supervision will create a positive supervisory experience and result in vital professional development. One model that fits this description is clinical supervision. The author's detailed guidelines for implementation of this model are flexible enough to allow for local adaptation.

3. Using L1 in the L2 Classroom

   In: English Teaching Forum 2003, Volume 41, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   There may be more to the use of L1 in the L2 classroom than previously thought. Recent findings show that L1 usage values the native culture and language of the students, allowing them to feel comfortable taking risks in English. The author distributed a questionnaire on Spanish usage to English language students and professors at a Puerto Rican university. Results showed that both students and teachers felt there were clear instances where Spanish would help understanding. The author also shares his own personal experiences as a Spanish-speaking English teacher.

4. Independence Day

   In: Celebrate! Holidays in the U.S.A. Format(s): Text

   Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4 because on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, officially breaking bonds with England and forming a new independent nation, the United States of America.

5. Microteaching

   In: English Teaching Forum 2003, Volume 41, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This brief article introduces the reader to the microteaching procedure. Teachers in training will prepare a short microlesson of five to ten minutes in length for normally fewer than ten students. Students may be real or trainees. The lesson is videotaped and discussed with colleagues and/or supervisors. The teacher then reteaches the lesson. This help teacher reflect and grow as well as consult with peers. Suggestions for preparation and teaching of microlessons are provided.

6. Chinese New Year

   In: Celebrate! Holidays in the U.S.A. Format(s): Text

   Chinese New Year is one of the most important and festive Chinese holidays. More than 2.5 million people of Chinese descent live in the United States and Chinese New Year's celebrations provide an important connection to Chinese culture and heritage.

7. Mother's Day and Father's Day

   In: Celebrate! Holidays in the U.S.A. Format(s): Text

   Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May and Father's Day is recognized on the third Sunday in June.

8. Women's History Month

   In: Celebrate! Holidays in the U.S.A. Format(s): Text

   Women's History Month is celebrated in March with special programs and activities in schools, workplaces, and communities.

9. 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."

10. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

    In: Celebrate! Holidays in the U.S.A. Format(s): Text

    Asian Pacific American Heritage Month originated with a congressional bill.

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