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1. Reflective Teacher Observation Model for In-Service Teacher Trainees

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

   This article proposes the Teacher Observation Programme for in-service teacher trainees. The program is reflective, collaborative, and builds confidence. It enables teachers to grow in their ability to self-evaluate. Trainees who have made decisions about their own observation, who have created and used their own observational tools, and who have used reflective lesson plans will be better equipped to do action research. Some of the key components of the program are needs assessment, building rapport, summative assessment and post-observational feedback.

2. Reflection as a Necessary Condition for Action Research

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

   This article explores the idea that teachers can improve their practice through reflection and action research. The author discusses the constructivist and socio-constructivist roots of action research. The case study explores the use of a project to improve learner autonomy and cooperation. Students made key decisions about the project content, the size of the groups, and the roles that each member would play. To evaluate the experience, the instructor asked students open-ended questions. A colleague-observer filled out rating scales about instructor and student behaviors.

3. A Classroom Response to HIV/AIDS - Project Proposal Writing

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

   This article describes a task-based writing project. High-school students in Zambia wrote a proposal to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in their community. By writing on a topic related to their lives, students were motivated and empowered to use their English skills for positive change. The project was an interactive workshop that invited a community leader to help with brainstorming, the setting of ground rules, and understanding of the issue. Students worked together on their responses and drafted and revised a proposal that was based on a model from UNICEF.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. The Lighter Side

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

   “Coin Toss” provides clues and asks learners to unscramble words to find the answers.

7. Developing Dynamic Units for EFL

   In: English Teaching Forum 2007, Volume 45, Number 2 Format(s): Text

   “Developing Dynamic Units for EFL” describes how to develop a thematic unit that integrates skills in context, provides opportunities for learner autonomy, and is project-based and experiential. Planning includes identifying curriculum standards, thinking of a meaningful topic, brainstorming tasks, organizing the activities, and making use of learner choice. The sample unit “Eating Out with Friends” includes the topics of inviting friends; choosing a restaurant and making a reservation; finding and communicating directions; ordering and requesting the bill; and thanking friends and retelling the story.

8. Children’s Web Portal

   Format(s): Video, Website

   The official kids’ portal for the student and teacher pages of various U.S. Government agencies.

9. EPA Teacher and Learner Resource Center

   Format(s): Text, Video, Website

   Looking for ways to teach about the environment to your English language learners? Check out these 12 lesson plans from the Environmental Protection Agency. There are 4 lessons for each level – beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

10. Environmental Kid’s Club

    Format(s): Text, Video, Website

    The Environmental Protection Agency’s Kid’s Center provides information and materials about the environment.

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