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“If I’ve learned nothing else, it’s that time and practice equal achievement.”

—Andre Agassi (1970 – ), American former world-champion tennis player

Do you teach Vietnamese English language learners? Is pronunciation a common obstacle in your classroom? If so, we highly recommend the ESL Garage channel on YouTube. Produced and presented by Teresa Nguyen, co-author of Compelling Conversations – Vietnam, this fun, interactive series tackles common pronunciation errors encountered by Vietnamese learners of English.

Provided with short practice exercises based on daily interactions and filled with American pop culture references, students will improve their communication skills and become more confident English-speakers.

A Fun AND Practical Pronunciation Guide

Featuring additional advice on and standardized pronunciation tests (TOEFL, IELTS) and asking clarifying questions, this versatile resource works well as both a supplementary classroom activity and an independent study aid. One of our favorite episodes, “How to pronounce English –ed endings through music,” walks Vietnamese ELLs through both voiced and voiceless pronunciations of the –ed ending, using music video clips from popular English language musicians like Lana del Rey and Adele as examples. Rhythm and rhyme are useful tools when it comes to memorization due to their repetitive nature. Using the Western music industry as a cultural touchstone invites students to listen and refine their speech in a way that’s both fun and familiar. Context matters!

Watch the full episode below:

How do you teach –ed endings in your classroom? Would you use music videos as a pronunciation aid? Why or why not?

Click here for sample content from Compelling Conversations Vietnam, or here to purchase a copy of your own on Amazon!

Ask more. Know more. Share more.
Create Compelling Conversations.
Visit www.CompellingConversations.com

About the Author

Eric H. Roth teaches international graduate students the pleasures and perils of academic writing and public speaking in English at the University of Southern California (USC). He also consults English language schools on communicative methods to effectively teach English.Roth co-authored Compelling Conversations: Questions and Quotations on Timeless Topics in 2006 to help English language learners increase their English fluency. Recommended by English Teaching Professional magazine, the advanced ESL textbook has been used in over 50 countries in English classrooms and conversation clubs. Easy English Times, an adult literacy newspaper, has published a monthly column, “Instant Conversation Activities,” based on the book since 2008. The first specific version for a particular country, Vietnam, was published in 2011. Compelling American Conversations came out in 2012, and Compelling Conversations – Japan arrived in 2015. Eric enjoys sharing reflections, resources, and teaching tips on this #ESL #EFL #ELT blog.

“My podcast focuses on the crossroads of education and technology and explores practical ways to merge the two.”

-Brent Warner, host of EdTechTV and co-author of Compelling Conversations – Japan

Are you looking for more fun and informative resource to help you find the best ed tech resources for your English language classes? Are you seeking honest, concise reviews on the latest and greatest in ed tech? How about savvy, focused discussions of current educational policies and interest topics? If you answered yes to any of the above, I strongly recommend listening to Brent Warner’s EdTech.TV!

EdTech TV Illuminates Options and Tradeoffs

I’ve talked about Brent Warner, educator and co-author of Compelling Conversations – Japan, before. His innovative educational podcast has a simple mission – encouraging teachers to use more 21^st century technologies in the classroom. In the internet age, teachers of English as a Second or Foreign Language have a wonderful selection of supplementary classroom materials available. Yet sometimes so many choices can be confusing and overwhelming too.

That’s one reason I deeply appreciate Brent’s work on EdtechTV.  I trust his judgments, and he can filter exceptional tools from simply clever options. EdTech.TV significantly reduces educators’ anxieties when it comes to finding new material. With thoughtful analysis and practical advice, the highly personalized podcast series directs us to the best choices given the real world conditions in our classrooms and time restrictions.

Explores Social Media and Educational Policy Consequences Too

EdtechTV also highlights social media as an academic tool where we are all teachers and all learners in professional learning networks (PLN). EdtechTV also explores a variety of education-related topics framed by current events. The short, digestible format (typically 20-25 minutes) includes recommendations for supplementary apps, further reading, and one “Non-Tech Rec” from the host, ranging from life hacks to new must-see TV.  It’s a simple, yet effective, format for hectic teachers.

A recent favorite, “Episode 046 – Alternative Facts, Fake News and CRAAP Tests” features Warner, a speaker at this year’s CUE conference in Palm Springs, asking pointed questions about the place of academic integrity in the Trump administration and discussion on the CRAAP test as a citation evaluation method. You can hear the full episode here!

Have you heard EdTech yet? How do you keep up with ed tech choices for your classroom? What podcasts or YouTube videos do you find most helpful? Let us know!

Ask more. Know more. Share more.
Create Compelling Conversations.
Visit www.CompellingConversations.com

About the Author

Eric H. Roth teaches international graduate students the pleasures and perils of academic writing and public speaking in English at the University of Southern California (USC). He also consults English language schools on communicative methods to effectively teach English.Roth co-authored Compelling Conversations: Questions and Quotations on Timeless Topics in 2006 to help English language learners increase their English fluency. Recommended by English Teaching Professional magazine, the advanced ESL textbook has been used in over 50 countries in English classrooms and conversation clubs. Easy English Times, an adult literacy newspaper, has published a monthly column, “Instant Conversation Activities,” based on the book since 2008. The first specific version for a particular country, Vietnam, was published in 2011. Compelling American Conversations came out in 2012, and Compelling Conversations – Japan arrived in 2015. Eric enjoys sharing reflections, resources, and teaching tips on this #ESL #EFL #ELT blog.

 “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.”

-Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), American statesman and 3rd President of the United States

Are you seeking an informative, practical resource to help improve your beginner/intermediate ESL students’ reading comprehension skills? If so, we highly recommend Easy English Times. Edited by Lorraine Ruston and published by Betty Malmgren, this savvy newspaper works wonderfully as a supplementary classroom resource.

What’s in each issue?

Brief, unbiased summaries on current events are straightforward and fact-driven, with highlighted vocabulary words and follow-up activities that test student understanding and observational skills. With additional movie reviews, citizenship information, and reader-submitted success stories, the Easy English Times remains a fun and enlightening educational resource for English language learners.

Makes learning English “A Breeze”

We at Chimayo Press are not only long-time fans, but also contributors. Each new issue highlights a passage from It’s A Breeze, our collection of lively lessons on American idioms. Students are provided with clear definitions, sample sentences and a short reading on one of the book’s 42 featured idioms to improve their understanding of common conversational English. With additional features that test speaking skills and reading comprehension, Easy English Times helps make American news and other media – especially sports –more accessible while encouraging students to become more autotelic.

More advanced students may begin reading papers like the New York Times, but for the beginning and intermediate learners, the Easy English Times is a great starting place.

Where do I sign up?

If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and visit the homepage for a free sample issue. If you find that your students enjoy the mix of current events, reader submissions and classroom activities, then we hope you’ll consider ordering for the year.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Compelling Conversations side page. For more content from It’s A Breeze, check out our Teachers Pay Teachers store! All 7 units are now available for individual purchase; click here for more details.

Do you use newspapers as supplementary tools in your English classroom? What print media have your students found most engaging? Feel free to share with us!

Ask more. Know more. Share more.
Create Compelling Conversations.
Visit www.CompellingConversations.com

About the Author

Eric H. Roth teaches international graduate students the pleasures and perils of academic writing and public speaking in English at the University of Southern California (USC). He also consults English language schools on communicative methods to effectively teach English.Roth co-authored Compelling Conversations: Questions and Quotations on Timeless Topics in 2006 to help English language learners increase their English fluency. Recommended by English Teaching Professional magazine, the advanced ESL textbook has been used in over 50 countries in English classrooms and conversation clubs. Easy English Times, an adult literacy newspaper, has published a monthly column, “Instant Conversation Activities,” based on the book since 2008. The first specific version for a particular country, Vietnam, was published in 2011. Compelling American Conversations came out in 2012, and Compelling Conversations – Japan arrived in 2015. Eric enjoys sharing reflections, resources, and teaching tips on this #ESL #EFL #ELT blog.

“Confidence contributes more to a conversation than wit.”

– Francois de La Rochefoucauld (1613-1680), French writer

How can we help English language learners in the U.S. have more long-lasting, compelling conversations with native speakers?

Sometimes it can be difficult to transition from small talk to a more personal, in-depth conversation. Feelings of intimidation, or unfamiliarity between conversation partners discourage many people – particularly learners of a second language in foreign country – from taking it any further. Luckily, the New York Times’ “How to Have More Engaging Conversations in Everyday Life,” offers some practical solutions. In the October 2016 Smarter Living piece, four panelists – ranging from the founder of a popular social app to a recent college grad – each discuss their top 3 tactics for creating more compelling conversations. While author Jonah Engel Bromwich does not specifically address English language learners (ELLs), all of the advice given applies to ESL and EFL students. Let’s review!

1. Unite around a common interest

Adults usually have an easier time opening up if they’re talking about something they feel strongly about. For example, students attending college or university might see what activities and clubs their campus has that suit their interest.

What about social settings with diverse attendance, like a party? As mentioned in the article, people of a similar age and/or cultural background are often easier to approach; you’re likely to share similar experiences. Likewise, you might consider the English classroom as common ground. When learning English as a second or foreign language, the material and content present unique challenges according to each student’s native tongue. These classmates, diverse in their needs and expectations, share an instructor and review lessons together. Their varying interpretations and opinions on common subjects, like movies or sports, often lead to stimulating conversations!

2. Be friendly, open and polite

Manners matter! The article advocates for treating people with courtesy and respect, which is always a great way to keep a conversation going. However, it should be noted that standards of politeness may vary from country to country. Some cultures, for instance, consider eye contact between conversation partners unnecessary. Having an awareness of these differences in conversational etiquette increases confidence and allows for more comfortable conversation with all kinds of people. (More on American manners here.)

3. Don’t overthink it

It’s common for many people to avoid starting conversations with others out of fear they will consider it an interruption or intrusion. This hesitation is often a valid concern, especially considering others’ perceptions of time and personal space. Therefore, if an English student feels held back by a language barrier, encourage them to be a more active listener. This behavior will provide them with opportunities to ask more questions, both about the discussion topic and vocabulary or phrases they may not understand. As a result of asking more, they’ll know more and, eventually, share more.

What are your tips for advancing conversations? How does this advice vary according to your relationship with the conversation partner? Let us know!

Click here to read the full New York Times article featured in this post. Additionally, check out our own comprehensive list of Compelling Conversation Starters here.

Ask more. Know more. Share more.
Create Compelling Conversations.
Visit www.CompellingConversations.com

About the Author

Eric H. Roth teaches international graduate students the pleasures and perils of academic writing and public speaking in English at the University of Southern California (USC). He also consults English language schools on communicative methods to effectively teach English. Roth co-authored Compelling Conversations: Questions and Quotations on Timeless Topics in 2006 to help English language learners increase their English fluency. Recommended by English Teaching Professional magazine, the advanced ESL textbook has been used in over 50 countries in English classrooms and conversation clubs. Easy English Times, an adult literacy newspaper, has published a monthly column, “Instant Conversation Activities,” based on the book since 2008. The first specific version for a particular country, Vietnam, was published in 2011. Compelling American Conversations came out in 2012, and Compelling Conversations – Japan arrived in 2015. Eric enjoys sharing reflections, resources, and teaching tips on this #ESL #EFL #ELT blog.

“Confidence contributes more to a conversation than wit.”

– Francois de La Rochefoucauld (1613-1680), French writer

How can we help English language learners in the U.S. have more long-lasting, compelling conversations with native speakers?

Sometimes it can be difficult to transition from small talk to a more personal, in-depth conversation. Feelings of intimidation, or unfamiliarity between conversation partners discourage many people – particularly learners of a second language in foreign country – from taking it any further. Luckily, the New York Times’ “How to Have More Engaging Conversations in Everyday Life,” offers some practical solutions. In the October 2016 Smarter Living piece, four panelists – ranging from the founder of a popular social app to a recent college grad – each discuss their top 3 tactics for creating more compelling conversations. While author Jonah Engel Bromwich does not specifically address English language learners (ELLs), all of the advice given applies to ESL and EFL students. Let’s review!

1. Unite around a common interest

Adults usually have an easier time opening up if they’re talking about something they feel strongly about. For example, students attending college or university might see what activities and clubs their campus has that suit their interest.

What about social settings with diverse attendance, like a party? As mentioned in the article, people of a similar age and/or cultural background are often easier to approach; you’re likely to share similar experiences. Likewise, you might consider the English classroom as common ground. When learning English as a second or foreign language, the material and content present unique challenges according to each student’s native tongue. These classmates, diverse in their needs and expectations, share an instructor and review lessons together. Their varying interpretations and opinions on common subjects, like movies or sports, often lead to stimulating conversations!

2. Be friendly, open and polite

Manners matter! The article advocates for treating people with courtesy and respect, which is always a great way to keep a conversation going. However, it should be noted that standards of politeness may vary from country to country. Some cultures, for instance, consider eye contact between conversation partners unnecessary. Having an awareness of these differences in conversational etiquette increases confidence and allows for more comfortable conversation with all kinds of people. (More on American manners here.)

3. Don’t overthink it

It’s common for many people to avoid starting conversations with others out of fear they will consider it an interruption or intrusion. This hesitation is often a valid concern, especially considering others’ perceptions of time and personal space. Therefore, if an English student feels held back by a language barrier, encourage them to be a more active listener. This behavior will provide them with opportunities to ask more questions, both about the discussion topic and vocabulary or phrases they may not understand. As a result of asking more, they’ll know more and, eventually, share more.

What are your tips for advancing conversations? How does this advice vary according to your relationship with the conversation partner? Let us know!

Click here to read the full New York Times article featured in this post. Additionally, check out our own comprehensive list of Compelling Conversation Starters here.

Ask more. Know more. Share more.
Create Compelling Conversations.
Visit www.CompellingConversations.com

About the Author

Eric H. Roth teaches international graduate students the pleasures and perils of academic writing and public speaking in English at the University of Southern California (USC). He also consults English language schools on communicative methods to effectively teach English. Roth co-authored Compelling Conversations: Questions and Quotations on Timeless Topics in 2006 to help English language learners increase their English fluency. Recommended by English Teaching Professional magazine, the advanced ESL textbook has been used in over 50 countries in English classrooms and conversation clubs. Easy English Times, an adult literacy newspaper, has published a monthly column, “Instant Conversation Activities,” based on the book since 2008. The first specific version for a particular country, Vietnam, was published in 2011. Compelling American Conversations came out in 2012, and Compelling Conversations – Japan arrived in 2015. Eric enjoys sharing reflections, resources, and teaching tips on this #ESL #EFL #ELT blog.