An inside look into our education system
When learning a new language, our brains are constantly fighting with themselves, switching between thinking in two different ways. Sometimes, it is hungry for knowledge, tickled pink when it learns something new, and curious for more and more understanding. But often, it wants to revert back to the familiar, and will use every excuse under… Continue reading ReadTheory Review
As I work with ESL teachers as an advisor, I came across the need for more structure in language learning. In our current fast paced world, where there is a need to "get through" everything, rather than really sit with and reflect on what we are doing, I thought it would be a good idea… Continue reading Tracking your learning with a language learning planner!
There comes a time where, for every teacher who leaves the classroom, they realize they have grown out of touch. I am one of those out-of-the classroom teachers who always tries to keep a trepid foot inside, teaching the orientation class, subbing occasionally, doing demo lessons for new teachers, and conducting fun workshops on digital… Continue reading The Death of Graded Readers?
As an ESL teacher, these three materials alone have constituted the bulk of my instructions, with each completing aspects of English that the others have. At Maxine Waters Employment Preparation Center, the official curricula is Side By Side. Therefore, I will start by speaking on Side By Side, and only mentioning our other District Approved… Continue reading Top ESL Curricula Round-Up: Side By Side, Burlington English, and Ellii
As ESL teachers, one of the primary functions of the job is to provide feedback to students on their progress in the language. One of the main ways to do this are through assessments. LAUSD has designed Student Score Sheets for each teacher to fill out and conference with their students. For visual record-keeping, accountability,… Continue reading Guide to Completing DACE ESL Student Score Sheets and Promo/Retention Forms
Ellii is a popular tool for learning English in a classroom setting, with its extensive library of materials and a dedicated online learning platform for learner independent study. I recommend Ellii as a supplemental tool to target difficult grammar areas, give students more story listening and writing practice, and to teach about American holidays. For… Continue reading Ellii (ESL Library) Video Overview Tutorial