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1. Journals in the Language Classroom

   In: English Teaching Forum 2009, Volume 47, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article discusses how to use paper-based journals as teaching tools in language classrooms. It describes the concept of writing to learn and provides some suggestions for teachers on how to use paper-based journals at the beginning, middle, and the end of class based on the author’s self-experience and his students’ feedback.

2. Building a Class Library Using Local Folktales

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

   In areas of the world such as Nigeria where reading is not a central part of the culture, teachers may face a shortage of reading materials. One way to address this problem is by asking students to create their own reading materials. The activity described in this article focuses on a way students can engage in process learning by writing down oral folktales. Because students work in groups, they must communicate with each other in English to write and prepare their book. Students produce a tangible object from their learning that can be used to build a reading library.

3. From Passive Participant to Active Thinker

   In: English Teaching Forum 2005, Volume 43, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   This article discusses how, through materials development, teachers can help students think critically and feel comfortable enough to be active participants in class. The author suggests adapting materials to be more relevant to the interests and needs of students in a particular context. Another suggestion is to create materials that help students connect their thoughts and feelings to the language they are learning. The author includes techniques to promote critical thinking and learner autonomy.

4. Climbing Grammar Mountain: An Interactive Learning Experience

   In: English Teaching Forum 2005, Volume 43, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   This article describes a grammar game that is an enjoyable way for students to correct sentences. In Climbing Grammar Mountain, best suited for secondary and university students, learners compete in teams to “climb” a game board. They earn needed equipment in the form of sentences. If a student can correctly state whether a sentence is grammatical, s/he is able to proceed, with bonus points for correcting an incorrect sentence. The game board, sample sentences, and instructions for teachers and students are included along with suggestions for adaptations.

5. Hidden Pictures: An Integrated Speaking and Listening Activity

   In: English Teaching Forum 2024, Volume 62, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   Author Heather Gaddis provides a detailed, step-by-step description of an original activity in which students examine and describe pictures that are similar to one another. The author includes suggestions for adapting the activity for different purposes and for integrating themes—which teachers can choose—into the activity for targeted practice.

6. Word Bricks-Sentence Challenge

   In: Activate: Games for Learning American English - Word Bricks Format(s): Text

   With the game Sentence Challenge, learners practice sentence structure in a fun, collaborative way. Teams work to create the longest sentence possible out of their Word Bricks. Then, the opposing teams ‘challenge’ a sentence if they believe there is an error.

7. Cultivating Your English Vocabulary through STEM Activities

   In: American English Webinars Format(s): Text, Video

   This webinar, "Cultivating Your English Vocabulary through STEM Activities," features vocabulary-teaching techniques grounded in a content-based instruction approach.

8. Cultivating Your English Vocabulary through STEM Activities

   Format(s): Text, Video

   This webinar, "Cultivating Your English Vocabulary through STEM Activities," features vocabulary-teaching techniques grounded in a content-based instruction approach.

9. How to Set Up Oral Homework: A Case of Limited Technology

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

   This article discusses the benefits and challenges of having students complete oral homework as a way to practice speaking skills. The author explains the technology necessary as well as steps to follow when using this type of homework when designing a course. Also provided is a detailed list of assignments that can be completed orally (as an individual or in a group) and how a teacher can give feedback on this work and keep records.

10. What Happened to Listening? Practical Tips for Increasing Listening Time in Your Classroom

    In: American English Webinars Format(s): MP3, Text, Video

    This webinar explores why listening sometimes gets short shrift in English classes and provides tips for bringing fun, low-preparation listening tasks to your lessons.

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