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Baseball: A National Tradition

In: English Teaching Forum 2010, Volume 48, Number 3 Format(s): Text

This article, written for language learners, gives an overview of the sport of baseball, known as America’s “national pastime.” The author describes the history of the sport as well as how to play it. The author talks about the types of people who play baseball, from young children to the major leagues, as well as baseball’s role in pop culture. Also included are a brief glossary, websites of interest, and a look at the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Lesson Plan: Baseball Stories, Cards,and Interviews

In: English Teaching Forum 2010, Volume 48, Number 3 Format(s): Text

This lesson plan offers an opportunity for students to practice their language skills and learn more about the sport of baseball. There are three activities (that will take at least one class period each) aimed at a variety of levels. Students create baseball cards of themselves and flash cards about the sport, and participate in interview role-plays as famous baseball players. Extension activities are included.

New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment

In: English Teaching Forum 2009, Volume 47, Number 2 Format(s): Text

This article introduces students to the history, cultural diversity, art, landscape, and symbolism of America's 47th state, New Mexico. It offers a special section on the art and life of Georgia O'Keeffe and small sections are included on the pueblo peoples, the state's Spanish heritage, the transition from Mexican to U.S. Territorial rule, farming and keeping animals, and New Mexico's abundant natural resources.

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.

New York, New York

In: English Teaching Forum 2008, Volume 46, Number 1 Format(s): Text

This article describes New York City. It presents information about its history, immigration process, geography, architecture, rivers, bridges, famous buildings and parks, famous neighborhoods, arts and entertainment, and tourist attractions and activities. The article also provides useful websites about New York City. It ends with a text about the United Nations Headquarters in midtown Manhattan.

Celebrate! Holidays in the U.S.A.

Format(s): Text

This book discusses the ten federally-recognized holidays in the United States, as well as many celebratory days. Download as an e-book or as individual PDF chapters.

Edgar Allan Poe: Storyteller

Format(s): E-book, MP3, Text

Seven popular Poe stories, slightly adapted for language learners. Stories are suitable for high-intermediate and advanced learners of English. Download the e-book, MP3 or PDF.

The Lighter Side of TEFL: Shaggy Dog Stories

In: The Lighter Side of TEFL, Volume 1 Format(s): Text

This section of The Lighter Side of TEFL focuses on shaggy dog stories, which are long-winded tales that gradually work up to a surprise ending. This section has an audio component.

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.

Design for Drama: Short Plays from American Literature