ESL with Alan - English Teaching Resources

  Embarking on the path to become a better English teacher led me to discover the Arizona State University TESOL Certificate on Coursera. This certificate program, recognized for its flexibility and comprehensive curriculum, is an ideal choice for educators like me who are passionate about improving their teaching skills. Why I Chose the Arizona State University TESOL Certificate As an active English teacher and a contributor to Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT), I was constantly seeking ways to enhance my teaching strategies and ensure my students received the best education possible. The Arizona State University TESOL Certificate on Coursera stood out to me for several reasons. Firstly, the course’s flexibility was a major selling point. Being available on Coursera, it allowed me to watch pre-recorded videos at my convenience. This meant I could learn and grow without disrupting my existing teaching schedule. Additionally, the reputation of Arizona State University assured me that the ...

 Welcome to our ESL teaching blog! Today, we delve into an exciting topic that will captivate both you and your students: incorporating The Lord of the Rings into your ESL classes. This epic series, penned by J.R.R. Tolkien, isn't just a cornerstone of British literature; it's a treasure trove of engaging stories that can make learning English fun and immersive. Let’s explore why you should consider bringing Middle Earth into your classroom, the teaching resources available, and some engaging writing and speaking prompts for your students. Why Include The Lord of the Rings in Your ESL Class? 1. A Significant Work of British Literature The Lord of the Rings is more than just a series of fantasy novels; it’s a crucial part of British literary heritage. Introducing your students to Tolkien's world helps them appreciate classic literature and understand cultural references that often appear in other media. 2. Great Storytelling The rich narrative, complex characters, and th...

  Animated series offer a treasure trove of resources for ESL teachers looking to create dynamic and engaging lessons. By incorporating popular cartoons and anime, you can capture your students' interest while teaching them valuable language skills. In this article, we'll explore several ESL teaching resources you can use alongside animated series, and recommend some specific shows that can enrich your ESL classes. Whether you’re looking for fresh ESL class ideas or want to expand your ESL teacher toolbox, these TEFL teaching tips will help you make the most of animated series in your classroom. ESL Teaching Resources for Animated Series Writing Activity Worksheets   Writing activities encourage students to practice their writing skills in a creative and engaging way. You can design worksheets that ask students to write summaries of the episodes, create alternative endings, or compose letters from one character to another. These activities help students practice narrative skil...

  Sherlock Holmes, the legendary detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, offers a wealth of opportunities for engaging and educational ESL class activities. Incorporating Sherlock Holmes into your ESL lessons not only makes learning English fun but also introduces students to classic literature, the detective genre, and the Victorian Age. Here are some TEFL teaching tips and resources to help you craft unforgettable ESL class activities centered around Sherlock Holmes. Introduction to Sherlock Holmes and Arthur Conan Doyle Start your lesson with a brief introduction to Sherlock Holmes and his creator, Arthur Conan Doyle. Explain that Sherlock Holmes is a fictional detective known for his keen observational skills and logical reasoning. Mention some of his most famous cases, such as "The Hound of the Baskervilles" and "A Study in Scarlet." Provide a short biography of Arthur Conan Doyle, highlighting his background as a physician and how his medical training inf...

  Embarking on the journey of learning English is akin to unlocking a treasure trove of opportunities. One of the most effective and enjoyable ways to enhance English skills is through reading. ESL learners often find solace and growth in the world of literature, as books not only enrich vocabulary but also offer insights into culture, history, and human experiences. In this ESL Teacher Toolbox, we delve into the realm of novels, offering a curated selection of five captivating books to ignite the passion for reading and learning English. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling: Step into the enchanting world of Hogwarts with Harry Potter and his friends. J.K. Rowling's masterpiece not only captivates readers with its magical adventures but also serves as a linguistic treasure trove for ESL learners. From whimsical spells to heartfelt conversations, this novel offers a plethora of vocabulary and expressions. As ESL teaching tip, encourage students to keep a vocabu...

  Are you an ESL teacher looking for effective methods to assess your students without causing stress or anxiety? Testing in ESL classrooms can be a daunting prospect, but with the right approach, it can become a stress-free and even enjoyable experience for both you and your students. In this article, we'll explore three innovative TEFL teaching tips for stress-free ESL testing that incorporate significant projects, Kahoot quizzes, and peer-reviewed assessments. Significant Projects: Traditional testing methods often involve written exams or quizzes, which may not accurately reflect students' true language abilities. Instead, consider implementing significant projects as a form of assessment. These projects can be tailored to suit different learning styles and language proficiency levels. For example, advanced students could create presentations or reports on a topic of their choice, allowing them to demonstrate their language skills in a meaningful context. Meanwhile, interm...

  In the vibrant world of ESL teaching, instructors come in all shapes and styles, each bringing their unique flair to the classroom. From the funny jester to the grammar guru, here are five types of ESL teachers you might encounter, each with their own distinctive approach to teaching English. 1. The Funny One: Characteristics: Uses humor to engage students and create a lively atmosphere in the classroom. Incorporates jokes, puns, and funny anecdotes into lessons to make learning enjoyable. Adapts teaching materials to include humorous content, such as funny videos or comic strips. Encourages laughter and laughter in the classroom to reduce stress and build rapport. Believes that laughter is a powerful tool for language acquisition and retention. 2. The Cultural One: Characteristics: Embraces cultural diversity and incorporates it into language lessons. Shares personal experiences and insights into their own culture and encourages students to do the same. Integrates cultural refer...