We learn by stumbling
Modern mishaps can illuminate traditional proverbs. One website goes down, essays get lost, and the email gets blocked for a few days. Frustration mounts. I recall the Bulgarian proverb, “we learn by stumbling.” I cool down, take a breath, and try to appreciate the process of resurrecting a modern communications miracle (website) and move an evolving blog. How’s it going?...
Read MoreESL classes should include more conversation activities!
Conversation activities need greater presence in classrooms “Speech is civilization itself. It is silence which isolates.” -Thomas Mann (1875-1955) German novelist Conversation remains a vital social skill for our English students. Naturally, immigrants and international students want to fully participate in their schools, their jobs, and their communities. Speaking clearly in...
Read MoreChoosing to speak English opens doors
As ESL and EFL teachers, we should encourage all English language learners! “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” -Brad Henry (1963- ), former Governor of Oklahoma Our students have chosen to speak English because it opens more doors. We should help them realize their ambitions, support their dreams, and avoid judging their...
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...
Read MoreUnexpected events at TESOL Convention
Pleasant surprises at TESOL Convention “Expect the unexpected.” -ProverbI kept an open schedule, previewed some workshop titles, and conducted more research than usual before going to the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages convention in New York. I expected crowds, chaos, and constant choice. Still, the stark reality of 7,000 teachers descending on a few floors of three...
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