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1. The Blues: Grammar and Glossary

   In: English Teaching Forum 2003, Volume 41, Number 1 Format(s): Text

   This is the last of a four-part series on the American musical style called “Blues.” The music grew out of the musical traditions of African slaves in the United States between 1619 and 1863, blended with the musical styles of Europe. It is closely related to Jazz. Blues and Jazz are the only two completely unique musical styles created in the United States. This section, as the title suggests, explains the words used in discussing the Blues and music in general, for example the use of “Blues” to mean more than just a color.

2. U.S. Coins: Reminders of History and Heritage

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

   This article describes the various US coins, the design, size, and history of coins, coin-making, the US mint, coin production, and the mottos that appear on coins. There is also a section on coin collecting as a hobby, a list of websites about coins, and a glossary of coin terms.

3. Earth Day and Arbor Day

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

   Both Arbor Day and Earth Day focus on the environment.

4. U.S. National Parks: Protecting Nature and Providing Enjoyment

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This feature article on national parks is appropriate for use with higher intermediate or advanced learners. It offers vivid photos and describes the history of national parks, their creation, management, and expansion. The author discusses features of parks from different regions of the country: Acadia National Park (Maine), Denali National Park and Preserve (Alaska), Everglades National Park (Florida), Glacier National Park (Montana), and Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona). Information about the national parks conservation association and the national park foundation is also included.

5. The Caliph, Cupid and the Clock

   In: The Gift of the Magi and Other Stories Format(s): Text

   This story is about Prince Michael of Valleluna, a prince who loves to help people and hates clocks.

6. From da Vinci to Recumbent... Velocity and the Velocipede

   In: English Teaching Forum 2001, Volume 39, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   This reading on bicycles is appropriate for intermediate to advanced students. The author traces the history of the bicycle back to the nineteenth century and describes major innovations in the technological development of bikes. Modern bicycle technology and impacts are also discussed. The article presents the etymology of the word bicycle and then offers translations into other languages, illustrating that in many cases a relationship to the root of the original word remains. Additional websites of interest are also included for further reading or follow up activities.

7. Poems About English and Access (2)

   In: Poetry Format(s): Text

   Part 2: English language learners from all over the world wrote poems about English and their Access programs. Download the poems or read them online.

8. Hearts and Crosses

   In: The Gift of the Magi and Other Stories Format(s): Text

   This story tells of a Texas rancher named Webb who is not content with holding a lower rank than his wife regarding ranch affairs.

9. The Count and the Wedding Guest

   In: The Gift of the Magi and Other Stories Format(s): Text

   This story is about a woman who cannot forget her dead fiancé. However, a man who lives in the same house wants to help her change her disposition. Now with Classroom Activities and Answer Key!

10. Mammon and the Archer

    In: The Gift of the Magi and Other Stories Format(s): Text

    This story is about a soap tycoon named Anthony Rockwall who thinks that literally anything can be bought with money.

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