Dwell in Possibility: Discussing Books Enlivens ESL Classes
“A word is dead when it is said, some say. I say it just begins to live that day.” Emily Dickinson Cheap pleasures can sometimes be the most satisfying. Reading, an activity that often costs nothing, falls into that category. Reading provides many pleasures and many insights. So does talking about reading. Following a December ritual, I’ve been reviewing the year and find many...
Read MoreGlobish – or Global English – Becomes Mainstream
Have you heard about the international bestseller Globish by Robert McCrum? Suddenly the term Globish seems everywhere. McCrum, who wrote the influential book “The Story of English”, argues that English has become Globish because it is the world’s international language. Partly descriptive and partly prescriptive, the author reviews the astonishing spread of English, its many changes...
Read MoreLocation Matters for EFL Teachers: Modifying English Content to Match Local Context
“To know and not do is to not know.” – ancient Jewish proverb Directing a private international high school in Vietnam last year provided many lessons. English might be the subject, but the context, as so often, became paramount. As English teachers, we often begin by asking simple questions as we prepare our classes. Who are our students? What do they expect from their English...
Read MoreLibrary ESL Conversation Clubs Grow
Where can immigrants go to practice their English speaking skills in a relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere? How can American libraries introduce their wonderful resources to new users and provide a vital need? Where can volunteers, librarians, and both novice and experienced English teachers enjoy leading small groups of English language learners in engaging, reflective conversations? American...
Read MoreConversation Tip 5: What has pleasantly surprised you today?
What pleasantly surprised you today? This question often causes people to pause, reflect, and change their dialogue. It gives us a chance to remember some moments of satisfaction, and reminds us that almost every day provides some unexpected moments. “What surprised you today” works too. But I prefer adding the “pleasantly” to counter dialogues that can run to the...
Read MoreWhat Does Success Mean? What Definition Works for You?
Sometimes the simplest questions create the best conversations. What does success mean? What definition are you using? How is that definition working for you? After a hectic summer teaching English and directing a private high school English program in Vietnam, I’ve been asking myself these questions quite a bit. I learned many lessons, deepened a close friendship with two old friends, met...
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