Make time for conversations – in and outside of English classrooms
The art of conversation, once considered the sign of a civilized individual, seems less common today. Yet I treasure the moments of sharing experiences, collecting news, and exchanging ideas. I make a point of knowing my neighbors, allowing casual greetings to become long conversations, and making time to explore the feelings and perceptions of friends and relatives in depth. These natural...
Read MoreConversation Starter #10 – Can you recommend a good book?
Converse with a teacher, student or stranger about books “No two persons ever read the same book.” -Edmund Wilson (1895-1972) American writerBooks and literature still matter in our 21st century global culture of blogs, especially for starting conversations. In the past few days, I have had three engaging, satisfying conversations with strangers about books. How? Is that a good book?...
Read MoreWhy not create a culturally sensitive Compelling Conversations?
Why I chose not to censor Compelling Conversations to increase accessibility “Only the educated are free.” Epictetus (55-135), Greek philosopher Many English teachers have asked if I plan a “culturally sensitive” version so Compelling Conversations can be used in more countries. For instance, China censors not only their classrooms, but has created a great electronic fallwall so its...
Read MoreWhat are the 1000 most common words in English?
Importance of authentic vocabulary reflecting interests “Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.” -Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936), British author What are the 1000 most common words in English? Wiktionary, an offshoot of the wonderful Wikipedia, offers this answer. Looks, sounds, and feels right. No big surprises. Do I recommend memorizing this list? No. Language should be...
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