Advanced Search: Resources

1. Students as Textbook Authors

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   The authors describe their experience using a learner-centered approach to turn learner writing into booklets. When students write about their own lives, they can focus on the language they need to express their ideas. Interaction increases because interest is high. Near beginners can create fact sheets about themselves, and more advanced students can write language-learning histories. The texts can become fill-in-the-blank activities or be read aloud. Student texts inform instructors of needs and interests; they give students ownership of their learning and provide models for future classes.

2. SWELL: A Writing Method to Help English Language Learners

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

   Social-interactive Writing for English Language Learners (SWELL) is collaborative writing based on Topping’s Paired Writing Method. The method was changed to meet the needs of English language learners. In both methods, pairs are formed according to proficiency, pairing a more advanced student (a Helper) with a less advanced one (a Writer). The author describes the steps of generating ideas, drafting, reading, editing, best copy, and evaluating. Features of SWELL include using students’ linguistic knowledge (L1), balancing fluency with mechanics, and promoting explicit teacher instruction.

3. State and County Fairs: Family Fun Across the USA

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   This feature article is on state and county fairs, “eagerly awaited celebrations of the nation’s agricultural bounty, love of competition, and community spirit.” The article discusses the history of fairs, where innovations in farm equipment and household appliances are displayed, and people engage in competition, fun, rides, and viewing curiosities. Some characteristics of fairs that are described are animals, education, competition, entertainment, and community involvement. Segments on 4-H and fair food follow the article.

4. In the Loop

   Format(s): Text, Image / Poster / Maps

   This book is a wonderful reference guide to American English idioms for your classroom. The book includes idioms and their meanings, a list of idioms by theme, some ready-to-use classroom activities, and a comprehensive index.

5. Teacher's Corner: Promoting Learner Engagement

   Format(s): Text

   This month’s Teacher’s Corner provides ideas for promoting learner engagement.

6. Panels and Perspectives

   In: Teaching with Comics and Graphic Novels Format(s): Text

   Combining the written word with even the simplest doodles can be a powerful means for students to demonstrate their understanding.

7. English Teaching Forum 2021, Volume 59, Number 4

   Format(s): Text

   Find strategies for using nonprofit commercials as the basis for topic-based and project-based learning … assessing learners’ productive vocabulary knowledge … helping pre-service teachers observe classes more effectively… practicing tense and aspect in a creative, collaborative activity … conducting “small talks” as warm-up and review … and much more.

8. New Years Eve

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

   In the United States, people begin celebrating the New Year on December 31, New Years Eve.

9. Graduation

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

   Graduation ceremonies celebrate the completion of one part of a person's education.

10. Birthdays and Anniversaries

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

    Anniversary celebrations are those that commemorate a particular date or past event. Birthdays are also celebrated in a variety of ways in the United States.

Pages