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1. The Lighter Side

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002 (Volume 40, Number 1) Format(s): Text

   This is a logic puzzle called “Where’s the Beef.” This activity begins with a word search where students must find hidden words in a grid of letters, all related to McDonald’s and various fast food restaurant items. Also included in the game is a list of eleven related facts that students must read and analyze in order to answer the question stated at the beginning of the game. The activity is intended to help students practice vocabulary, spelling, and critical thinking.

2. Iditarod: The Annual Sled-Dog Race

   In: English Teaching Forum 2002, Volume 40, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   “Iditarod: The Annual Sled-Dog Race “ is a reading text about “Iditarod” which is an annual sled-dog race that has been held in Alaska since 1973. It presents the meaning, origin, history, and importance of this race for Alaskan people. The article also provides information on past winners of the race.

3. Maps and Legends

   In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 2 Format(s): Text

   The author of this student-directed reading, Michael Chabon, shares his experience as a pioneer of the Columbia Experiment. Columbia’s renewal was the dream of James Rouse, who put together a team of city planners to design a lovely, convenient, modern city where races lived together in harmony. Chabon writes about the impact of living with the dream and vision of the city’s development. Since the late 1960s, Columbia has grown from a few thousand people to the second largest city in Maryland.

4. A Plan for Using - "Save the Lofty Trees" by Leslie Mills

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

   The author describes how to use the play “Save the Lofty Trees” in a classroom. The plan offers six activities that will promote student interaction, involving guided imagination, brainstorming, group-work, creative movement, and an interactive read through. This lesson plan is intended for young learners and addresses all learning styles.

5. Texas: The Lone Star State

   In: English Teaching Forum 2001, Volume 39, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article gives an introduction to the state of Texas. It begins by outlining the history of Texas, from colonization through statehood. Present geography and a description of east, west, south, and north Texas are also described. Additional websites for further reading are provided. The article is appropriate for intermediate English learners with an interest in various regions of the United States.

6. PBS Learning Media

   Format(s): Website

   PBS LearningMedia™ is the go-to destination for instant access to tens of thousands of classroom-ready, digital resources including videos, games, audio clips, photos, lesson plans, and more!

7. VOA Podcast: Making of a Nation: The Heart of the Constitution

   In: VOA Podcasts: Shows in Special English Format(s): MP3, Text

   From Voice of America Podcasts in Special English. Take a look at the Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Download the MP3 or listen online.

8. An Integrated Skills Lesson Plan for "Just Off Main Street" by Elmaz Abinader

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

   This lesson plan is designed for high intermediate to advanced English language learners. Based on an authentic, contemporary essay by an accomplished American writer, the lesson plan includes tasks and activities designed to improve students’ English language skills as well as increase their understanding of American culture. The lesson includes pre-, during, and post reading activities to improve comprehension, learn new vocabulary, and make connections beyond the text. Websites of interest and useful questions for discussion or writing are included.

9. For Life's Sake

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

   In “For Life’s Sake,” author Linda Hogan provides the reader with a view of the cultural influences that have made her into the poet, essayist, and storyteller she is today. She describes how her ancestors and the beliefs she inherited as a Native American have inspired her choice of topics and shaped her writing into its unique style. Her love of trees is woven through the article. Hogan’s essay gives students a chance to understand and appreciate the life of a writer from another America. It includes her poem, “Affinity,” on the topic of horses, as well as a glossary of terms.

10. Poetry Corner

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

    This issue’s “Poetry Corner” revolves around the poem “Coins” by Richard Newman. It includes a lesson plan for teaching students about American Coins, as well as a glossary of terms. Skills include vocabulary, reading, and discussion. The lesson works with the feature article entitled US Coins.

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