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English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 3

Format(s): Text

State and county fairs, the topic of this issue’s feature article, are an American tradition that highlight everything from livestock to rollercoaster rides. A corresponding lesson plan simulates “A Day at the Fair.” Other articles discuss storytelling, student-centered teaching in large classes, students as textbook authors, and using practice posters in EFL programs.

Applying Reading Research to the Development of an Integrated Lesson Plan

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

This article discusses whole language and phonics approaches to teaching L1 reading. It argues to bring these two perspectives together under an integrated approach to better teach second language reading. The article offers an integrated lesson plan with adaptable activities and techniques that show how to apply the integrated approach.

Using Anecdotes in Language Class

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

This article discusses the usefulness of anecdotes as a technique to stimulate learners’ interest and thus create a meaningful learning context in the second language classroom. It describes the pattern of an anecdote and how it should be formed as well as the different types of anecdotes. The article offers tips to successfully implement this technique.

The Challenge of Spelling in English

In: English Teaching Forum 2008, Volume 46, Number 3 Format(s): Text

This article addresses the topic of spelling in American English. It discusses the popularity of spelling contests in American schools, and then explains why spelling is so hard. The author then argues how important it is to understand these factors to improve spelling accuracy. The article concludes by identifying the difficulties of language learning and implications for English teaching.

Sing Out Loud Traditional Songs

Format(s): Text

This CD contains traditional American folk songs. Download songs, lyrics, posters, and activities. Watch a video to get teaching tips!

Teaching ESL Versus EFL

In: English Teaching Forum 2005, Volume 43, Number 2 Format(s): Text

The author argues for different teaching approaches in EFL vs. ESL settings. He points out the differences in student motivation and suggests how to select different activities for the two contexts (with examples of relevant activities). He gives guidelines for the appropriate role of L1 in each classroom, and explains how the two classroom cultures differ (for example, in term of the learning styles of the students). He argues that keeping in mind these differences will help educators make more effective decisions for their students.

Using Comic Strips in Language Classes

In: English Teaching Forum 2006, Volume 44, Number 1 Format(s): Text

The author believes that using comic strips in language-learning classes has three main benefits. First, comic strips motivate younger learners. Second, they provide a context and logically connected sentences to help language learning. Third, their visual information is helpful for comprehension. The author argues that comic strips can be used in exercises of reading and other skills areas. The author provides four activities that use comic strips.

Voice of America's Interactive Learning: The Classroom Official Facebook Page

Format(s): Website

The Facebook Page of Voice of America Special English, a component of the interactive VOA experience.

Weaving the Web into an EAP Reading Program

In: English Teaching Forum 2001, Volume 39, Number 2 Format(s): Text

The authors share their experiences developing Internet reading activities for their students in an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. The authors chose reading material found on the Internet that was authentic, up-to-date, and would increase student interest and motivation to learn English. The authors share practical considerations as well as their experience adapting laboratory activities to increase student autonomy along with other lessons learned in the process of using Internet reading materials.

Using Story Jokes for Real Communication

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

English language teachers all face the obstacle of getting their students to speak in conversational English. This article, originally published in 1996, explores the use of jokes as a way to get natural conversation going in and out of the classroom and provides activities for teachers to use with their students.