Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Over the past 15+ years, I've developed a fair amount of materials and lesson plans although of hugely varying quality.
Whilst I have a tendency to make new materials for each new course, and changing jobs has typically meant this has been a necessity, I'd really like to go through the stuff I have and turn a selection into something publishable.
Finding a focus will help to be selective and make the goal more concrete, then breaking it down into manageable steps will be the way to go.
This was a great question to ask us all at the end of the course, and I've been inspired and energised by reading everyone's answers plus the comments below them.
Wonderful to see so many wheels set in motion!! Thanks again for everything!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
One whole year..., I would like to imagine myself having developed a framework for professional Business English training materials which could be tailored for different contexts, and to have piloted and then refined my materials. Furthermore, I hope that this course will inspire all the materials that I will design in the future, for various different content courses. Especially, applying the knowledge of professional imagery, design, clarity of instructions, and copyright awareness that I have learned here, from this community. Thank-you.
One whole year..., I would like to imagine myself having developed a framework for professional Business English training materials which could be tailored for different contexts, and to have piloted and then refined my materials. Furthermore, I hope that this course will inspire all the materials that I will design in the future, for various different content courses. Especially, applying the knowledge of professional imagery, design, clarity of instructions, and copyright awareness that I have learned here, from this community. Thank-you.
Here's my game.
Here's my game. It's a simple spinner + cards game inspired by games like Snap/Old Maid. It's designed for Business English learners at B2 and highlights verbing collocations with parts of the body. If you're not familiar with verbing, these are nouns used as verbs.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y3j-DmZntsxvqdBI4nIzeRKAqpY9OTbH/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y3j-DmZntsxvqdBI4nIzeRKAqpY9OTbH/view?usp=sharing
Hi folks, for this week's task, I wanted to create a puzzling email, which the students need to try to understand...
Hi folks, for this week's task, I wanted to create a puzzling email, which the students need to try to understand and reply to, and then they create their own slightly ambiguous emails, and reply to each others.
I appreciate any comments, and wish you all the best in your future material writing endeavors.
Alan
https://drive.google.com/file/d/142foLNLjMfjvmWfXpU7t7fq3QUjHl2rJ/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/142foLNLjMfjvmWfXpU7t7fq3QUjHl2rJ/view?usp=sharing
I appreciate any comments, and wish you all the best in your future material writing endeavors.
Alan
https://drive.google.com/file/d/142foLNLjMfjvmWfXpU7t7fq3QUjHl2rJ/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/142foLNLjMfjvmWfXpU7t7fq3QUjHl2rJ/view?usp=sharing
This is my puzzle for week 4's assignment - a way for teaching som difficult vocabulary in a text we are going to...
This is my puzzle for week 4's assignment - a way for teaching som difficult vocabulary in a text we are going to read in class. I've spotted the difficult words through vocabkitchen.com and my knowledge of what grade 9 students in DK normally find difficult. It's based on translating those difficult words to danish.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11PlBsVB4uDoWcAWIeneIKCCJzZxERI0bEGDnkdpqsqc/edit?usp=sharing
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11PlBsVB4uDoWcAWIeneIKCCJzZxERI0bEGDnkdpqsqc/edit?usp=sharing
Here's my third assignment.
Here's my third assignment. The materials are designed around three public domain images from the late 19th/early 20th century (my favourite is no. 1!). The language focus is on 'future in the past' structures - something I've never actually taught before.
Here's how I've organised it:
1. The images
2. The activities
3. Teacher notes
4. An overview with objectives etc.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1an8busR54V4SZysfoaAf80EOUl5CJpkq/view?usp=sharing
Here's how I've organised it:
1. The images
2. The activities
3. Teacher notes
4. An overview with objectives etc.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1an8busR54V4SZysfoaAf80EOUl5CJpkq/view?usp=sharing
3 t.
3 t.
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would love to have worked through a topic creating a 10-12 pages material that I and my colleagues at school would be able to use again - and maybe after that having corrected it enough for somebody else to benefit from it.
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would love to have worked through a topic creating a 10-12 pages material that I and my colleagues at school would be able to use again - and maybe after that having corrected it enough for somebody else to benefit from it.
I have designed this activity for my pre-intermediate adult students.
I have designed this activity for my pre-intermediate adult students. the objective is to review vocabulary related to health issues in an interactive way.
Most of the students are women with 8 men and twelve women. They need to improve their speaking skills and they need to do it in a fun and comfortable environment
.https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WD7UmZ3HaO7KdqZ8tBYk-EOFcptfkdrg
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WD7UmZ3HaO7KdqZ8tBYk-EOFcptfkdrg
Most of the students are women with 8 men and twelve women. They need to improve their speaking skills and they need to do it in a fun and comfortable environment
.https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WD7UmZ3HaO7KdqZ8tBYk-EOFcptfkdrg
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1WD7UmZ3HaO7KdqZ8tBYk-EOFcptfkdrg
If there's one insight I've got from this course, it's that I'm really quite duplicitous in demanding that my...
If there's one insight I've got from this course, it's that I'm really quite duplicitous in demanding that my learners and trainees submit their assignments on time while I can't seem to submit anything on time.
For what it's worth, here's my second assignment. It's organized in this way:
1. Handout
2. Trainer notes
3. Overview (with my rationale)
The materials are for teachers in a teacher-training context and I reckon the text is authentic within their context.
To see the text, you need to go to https://storyweaver.org.in/stories/1281-it-s-all-the-cat-s-fault. I
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VQbCpzjh4UoIN_WKIXyf_aVRSJ51THNl/view?usp=sharing
For what it's worth, here's my second assignment. It's organized in this way:
1. Handout
2. Trainer notes
3. Overview (with my rationale)
The materials are for teachers in a teacher-training context and I reckon the text is authentic within their context.
To see the text, you need to go to https://storyweaver.org.in/stories/1281-it-s-all-the-cat-s-fault. I
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VQbCpzjh4UoIN_WKIXyf_aVRSJ51THNl/view?usp=sharing
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would like to be more creative and full of fresh ideas, and, finally, publish my own book with fun and interesting ELT materials.
I would like to be more creative and full of fresh ideas, and, finally, publish my own book with fun and interesting ELT materials.
Monday, July 30, 2018
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
After having writen a few books under very strict rules, parameters, conditions, etc. I'd like to publish a book that no publishing company would take on! All the things that are out of the question, politics, religion, language that no coursebook would ever include, etc. I imagine it would be self-published, sales 2 (my best friend and my mother!). Still, that's what I've been thinking for the last two years! :)
After having writen a few books under very strict rules, parameters, conditions, etc. I'd like to publish a book that no publishing company would take on! All the things that are out of the question, politics, religion, language that no coursebook would ever include, etc. I imagine it would be self-published, sales 2 (my best friend and my mother!). Still, that's what I've been thinking for the last two years! :)
I'm sure I got this idea from someone, somewhere.
I'm sure I got this idea from someone, somewhere. This is a 5' activity at the end of a class, and it can change according to the topic you've been dealing with, the interest of your class, or a current event. Basically, anything goes.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QS-6bsH6yDDsx__rZIOFsHNXxqgWJ8QQ
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QS-6bsH6yDDsx__rZIOFsHNXxqgWJ8QQ
Hi Everyone! I'm awfully late with the assignments, July has been a hectic month!
Hi Everyone! I'm awfully late with the assignments, July has been a hectic month!
I prepared a lesson based on a text about Vincent van Gogh which I found in a book that I love - "The Paintings that Revoultionized Art" - and on his paintings. I've been meaning to use this book to develop ELT materials since I bought, over a year ago.
At first, I wanted to keep the worksheet simple, but I ended up creating something longer than I had planned.
One important thing to me was to include a note about how teachers should be careful when dealing with sensitive mental health issues in class.
All in all, I'm happy with the final result. Van Gogh is one of my favorite artists and I have a print of "The Starry Night" in my dining room.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XS9Aj_yKPToT26Or-e_4U1_bROHQFL6I/view?usp=sharing
I prepared a lesson based on a text about Vincent van Gogh which I found in a book that I love - "The Paintings that Revoultionized Art" - and on his paintings. I've been meaning to use this book to develop ELT materials since I bought, over a year ago.
At first, I wanted to keep the worksheet simple, but I ended up creating something longer than I had planned.
One important thing to me was to include a note about how teachers should be careful when dealing with sensitive mental health issues in class.
All in all, I'm happy with the final result. Van Gogh is one of my favorite artists and I have a print of "The Starry Night" in my dining room.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XS9Aj_yKPToT26Or-e_4U1_bROHQFL6I/view?usp=sharing
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Honestly, I don't know :) Want I do know is that I've always been interested in creating supplementary materials and bringing coursebooks to life. I also like sharing it with others and getting feedback.
Maybe, I'll be working on a supplementary materials handbook or designing a conversation course using different materials videos, audios, authentic materials, .....etc.
Honestly, I don't know :) Want I do know is that I've always been interested in creating supplementary materials and bringing coursebooks to life. I also like sharing it with others and getting feedback.
Maybe, I'll be working on a supplementary materials handbook or designing a conversation course using different materials videos, audios, authentic materials, .....etc.
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Well... I would love to learn more about ELT material writing and 12 months from now I hope I will be able to write better worksheets for my students, worksheets, and activities that can be stimulating and engaging. Sometimes I have so many ideas but then I realize I do not know how to properly transform them into effective worksheets and I have to admit that what comes out, in the end, is not really corresponding to what was my intention. So I really need to improve my worksheet planning and follow the teaching unit outline instead of just going randomly. In 12 months from now, I can see myself with a deeper knowledge on how things should be done in order to maximize my students' learning process.
Well... I would love to learn more about ELT material writing and 12 months from now I hope I will be able to write better worksheets for my students, worksheets, and activities that can be stimulating and engaging. Sometimes I have so many ideas but then I realize I do not know how to properly transform them into effective worksheets and I have to admit that what comes out, in the end, is not really corresponding to what was my intention. So I really need to improve my worksheet planning and follow the teaching unit outline instead of just going randomly. In 12 months from now, I can see myself with a deeper knowledge on how things should be done in order to maximize my students' learning process.
Hello.
Hello... and here I am with the last assignment! This course has been such a pleasure, so interesting, so many things I learned! Thank you!
This is the link to a blended worksheet for a back to school activity for my primary school kids (LEVEL A1)! Hope the link works.....
https://app.wizer.me/learn/SPYG9I
https://app.wizer.me/learn/SPYG9I
This is the link to a blended worksheet for a back to school activity for my primary school kids (LEVEL A1)! Hope the link works.....
https://app.wizer.me/learn/SPYG9I
https://app.wizer.me/learn/SPYG9I
I think I would recommend the teacher to get to know the class and the level of the students before starting...
I think I would recommend the teacher to get to know the class and the level of the students before starting creating materials. Start out by using something known and then see what is lacking in the printed/online material that is already there. Creating materials is so funny but takes a lot of time, so it really has to be worth it. - Then I would probably teach my colleague to use a vocabprofiler as it is one of the most helpful tools at all for analysing an authentic text
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
A year from now or maybe longer, I feel I would like to self publish my own book, maybe create my own website for sharing content in the form of digital media. This course has helped me get the basics of Material writing and I believe there is a lot in store that I need to explore and look forward to. I look up to Scott Thornbury and Tim Thompson for inspiration. I believe one day maybe not in a year but somewhere down the line I would like to create my name in ELT writing and teaching just like them.
A year from now or maybe longer, I feel I would like to self publish my own book, maybe create my own website for sharing content in the form of digital media. This course has helped me get the basics of Material writing and I believe there is a lot in store that I need to explore and look forward to. I look up to Scott Thornbury and Tim Thompson for inspiration. I believe one day maybe not in a year but somewhere down the line I would like to create my name in ELT writing and teaching just like them.
Hello everyone! Here's my third assignment. I hope you'll find it interesting!
Hello everyone! Here's my third assignment. I hope you'll find it interesting!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ayhKF9_QRC4Wv6Esomw38rEt4AmfQR7A/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ayhKF9_QRC4Wv6Esomw38rEt4AmfQR7A/view?usp=sharing
Sunday, July 29, 2018
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I see myself as being able to produce effective materials: defining effective as both useful and interesting, in a shorter time period.
I see myself as being able to produce effective materials: defining effective as both useful and interesting, in a shorter time period.
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would see myself sharing materials with colleagues and fellow teachers more often. I would like to get as much feedback as possible on how the materials were received by students and teachers.
I would also like to start creating materials for primary learners, too. I've been focusing on teens and adults. I want to experiment more with material writing for younger students.
I would see myself sharing materials with colleagues and fellow teachers more often. I would like to get as much feedback as possible on how the materials were received by students and teachers.
I would also like to start creating materials for primary learners, too. I've been focusing on teens and adults. I want to experiment more with material writing for younger students.
In response to "what one piece of advice would you give a teacher who wants to create their own classroom materials?"
In response to "what one piece of advice would you give a teacher who wants to create their own classroom materials?"
I do not esteem that I have been creating materials long enough to give advice. However, one thing that has worked for me is getting inspiration from students themselves. I have made it a habit to take advantage of the first lesson to make students write lists of what they’re interested in, what their hobbies, their favourite songs, movies are etc. I keep those lists at hand for when I’m looking for inspiration. I also try to make the best out of the first two minutes of class to have more laid-back conversations about what they’re into at the moment. “What TV show are you watching? Who’s your favourite artist at the moment? What do you like about Rap music?” My teens won’t stop talking when I ask them these kinds of questions (which is always a plus, in my opinion, since they’re answering in English). So my advice is: get to know your students and what they like.
I do not esteem that I have been creating materials long enough to give advice. However, one thing that has worked for me is getting inspiration from students themselves. I have made it a habit to take advantage of the first lesson to make students write lists of what they’re interested in, what their hobbies, their favourite songs, movies are etc. I keep those lists at hand for when I’m looking for inspiration. I also try to make the best out of the first two minutes of class to have more laid-back conversations about what they’re into at the moment. “What TV show are you watching? Who’s your favourite artist at the moment? What do you like about Rap music?” My teens won’t stop talking when I ask them these kinds of questions (which is always a plus, in my opinion, since they’re answering in English). So my advice is: get to know your students and what they like.
Hello
Hello,
This is my 4th assignment. It is a twist on games like Jeopardy/Typhoon/Kaboom that my students seem to enjoy a lot, no matter what level or age group they are. I have changed some elements and recreated the template :-)
Ps: I use Active Inspire in the classroom which allows me to move the black rectangles for the students to see what's behind them.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/14XEQAgZ3uy1D0CujOZG3vlf-ejCul7RE/view?usp=sharing
This is my 4th assignment. It is a twist on games like Jeopardy/Typhoon/Kaboom that my students seem to enjoy a lot, no matter what level or age group they are. I have changed some elements and recreated the template :-)
Ps: I use Active Inspire in the classroom which allows me to move the black rectangles for the students to see what's behind them.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/14XEQAgZ3uy1D0CujOZG3vlf-ejCul7RE/view?usp=sharing
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HhLqSYkBuzEGEt7_3953JnjbDmXoRz9R8Pw42O6bDtU/edit#
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HhLqSYkBuzEGEt7_3953JnjbDmXoRz9R8Pw42O6bDtU/edit#
Sorry about being late - I've been away for two weeks, and now will try to catch up before next Sunday.
Here's my photo task -inspired by my recent holidays (I went to Annecy in France and also travelled round the Swiss Lac Leman, saw the beginning of the Tour de France, did some geocaching and went to Chamonix near Mont Blanc - in case you wonder)
Sorry about being late - I've been away for two weeks, and now will try to catch up before next Sunday.
Here's my photo task -inspired by my recent holidays (I went to Annecy in France and also travelled round the Swiss Lac Leman, saw the beginning of the Tour de France, did some geocaching and went to Chamonix near Mont Blanc - in case you wonder)
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
First of all, I'd like to see myself more productive. 'Practice makes perfect', right? This course has helped me to see my weak points so I'm hoping to get better in future.
First of all, I'd like to see myself more productive. 'Practice makes perfect', right? This course has helped me to see my weak points so I'm hoping to get better in future.
A betting game that can be used for revising any language point. I have used it over and over. My students love it.
A betting game that can be used for revising any language point. I have used it over and over. My students love it.
This one is suitable for A2+/B1 level students.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oSG2VDygY2Wg9Y6REkRJH2fqZfQW9lQC/view?usp=sharing
This one is suitable for A2+/B1 level students.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oSG2VDygY2Wg9Y6REkRJH2fqZfQW9lQC/view?usp=sharing
Assignment 3
Assignment 3
I've finally completed it.
It's a collaborative writing assignment using pictures as prompts. I hope you find it useful.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O9a9VTonQcC8a6jDY_efdvXZghscpE8o/view?usp=sharing
I've finally completed it.
It's a collaborative writing assignment using pictures as prompts. I hope you find it useful.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O9a9VTonQcC8a6jDY_efdvXZghscpE8o/view?usp=sharing
Saturday, July 28, 2018
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Well, I don´t see myself as a materials writer, but, in 12 months from now, I want to keep receiving good ELT materials to edit.
:-D
PS: If anyone needs me in the future, I can help with some tips as a voluntary editor.
Well, I don´t see myself as a materials writer, but, in 12 months from now, I want to keep receiving good ELT materials to edit.
:-D
PS: If anyone needs me in the future, I can help with some tips as a voluntary editor.
Hello, everyone!
Hello, everyone! This is my Week 4 assignment. I use games or game-based materials a lot in my teaching and I love trying new tools or websites. As I won't have access to my own computer for the next week or so I decided to share with you some of the online games that I have created for my students on two of my favourite sites, https://www.tripticoplus.com/ and learningapps.org. Feel free to use the games or make any comments you deem necessary about them! As this is our last official assignment, I would like to thank Katherine for being a true source of motivation and you all for providing me with ideas, inspiration and lots of food for thought! :)
Triptico games
A2
https://tripticoplus.com/tshare/7jddv3ty/3595: A game on Passive Voice: Students need to find who has created, written, done one of the things on the cards and say the answer using a Passive Voice structure (for e.g. Mona Lisa was painted by Leonardo da Vinci)
C2
https://tripticoplus.com/tshare/6ft33dze/3598: This is a grammar game on Inversion and Cleft clauses. Students are split into two teams and try to get from one side of the board to the other by correctly identifying the missing words in each tile.
LEARNING APPS
A1
https://learningapps.org/display?v=pe17dmy1t18: Write the name of each country
A2
https://learningapps.org/display?v=p5pptczok17: Match each picture with the correct word
B1
https://learningapps.org/display?v=pvsys10ck18: A crossword on the theme of health and fitness.
https://learningapps.org/display?v=p30f3ts8j17: A listening task to practise language used to describe people
https://learningapps.org/display?v=p30f3ts8j17:A
Triptico games
A2
https://tripticoplus.com/tshare/7jddv3ty/3595: A game on Passive Voice: Students need to find who has created, written, done one of the things on the cards and say the answer using a Passive Voice structure (for e.g. Mona Lisa was painted by Leonardo da Vinci)
C2
https://tripticoplus.com/tshare/6ft33dze/3598: This is a grammar game on Inversion and Cleft clauses. Students are split into two teams and try to get from one side of the board to the other by correctly identifying the missing words in each tile.
LEARNING APPS
A1
https://learningapps.org/display?v=pe17dmy1t18: Write the name of each country
A2
https://learningapps.org/display?v=p5pptczok17: Match each picture with the correct word
B1
https://learningapps.org/display?v=pvsys10ck18: A crossword on the theme of health and fitness.
https://learningapps.org/display?v=p30f3ts8j17: A listening task to practise language used to describe people
https://learningapps.org/display?v=p30f3ts8j17:A
Hello
Hello,
this is this is my week 4 assignment. I created this worksheet keeping in mind a group of B2-level learners I used to teach. Their age was 26-30 (about the same as mine) and they were close friends before they started having English lessons.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KNAZc4aCCrCIWWZTr5J6zn8IrI4FV7zk/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KNAZc4aCCrCIWWZTr5J6zn8IrI4FV7zk/view?usp=sharing
this is this is my week 4 assignment. I created this worksheet keeping in mind a group of B2-level learners I used to teach. Their age was 26-30 (about the same as mine) and they were close friends before they started having English lessons.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KNAZc4aCCrCIWWZTr5J6zn8IrI4FV7zk/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KNAZc4aCCrCIWWZTr5J6zn8IrI4FV7zk/view?usp=sharing
Hi guys!
Hi guys!
Here is my Week 4 assignment. I got all wrapped in Kahoot! but now I think I finally understand the laptop+mobile phone set-up. So much fun! (Also, there is a small hole in the wall bar where I'm from called Cahootz and I would love to introduce this app as their way of doing Trivia Night, haha.)
Anyway, I made this game for my 13-16 year old (B1) online students. I have to give them a lot of instructions related to their computers and they often forget the terminology.
Eventually, I will improve this by adding more questions and more design but for now, I just wanted to get over the learning curve of using the program.
Thanks for this inspiring course!
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/fcc035d0-88b4-4df0-8496-56e383c0638a
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/fcc035d0-88b4-4df0-8496-56e383c0638a
Here is my Week 4 assignment. I got all wrapped in Kahoot! but now I think I finally understand the laptop+mobile phone set-up. So much fun! (Also, there is a small hole in the wall bar where I'm from called Cahootz and I would love to introduce this app as their way of doing Trivia Night, haha.)
Anyway, I made this game for my 13-16 year old (B1) online students. I have to give them a lot of instructions related to their computers and they often forget the terminology.
Eventually, I will improve this by adding more questions and more design but for now, I just wanted to get over the learning curve of using the program.
Thanks for this inspiring course!
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/fcc035d0-88b4-4df0-8496-56e383c0638a
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/fcc035d0-88b4-4df0-8496-56e383c0638a
I would use recordings of speakers with English as a second language.
I would use recordings of speakers with English as a second language. This reflects the reality that English is a lingua franca. However, when selecting any materials I think the accent, the clarity and the correctness of the language used need to be considered in relation to the students and their needs. This does not exclude non-native speakers.
Friday, July 27, 2018
Here's my assignment for week 3.
Here's my assignment for week 3. It is aimed at B1-level adult learners. Photos are used as the starting point and the worksheet is meant to be used in a classroom. All the photos I've used are labeled for non-commercial reuse.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R9tn117PPpSDy3uFcYP633-Q8Dt3PZXv/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R9tn117PPpSDy3uFcYP633-Q8Dt3PZXv/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R9tn117PPpSDy3uFcYP633-Q8Dt3PZXv/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R9tn117PPpSDy3uFcYP633-Q8Dt3PZXv/view?usp=sharing
Which ONE piece of advice would you give to a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom materials?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give to a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom materials?
I think the most important tip would be to always start with the end in mind. A teacher must always know the purpose and the objective of the lesson or the classroom material they wish to create. Is it to improve students' ability to speak fluently? Is it to improve their writing? Keeping your classroom material focused would help keep your class organized.
I think the most important tip would be to always start with the end in mind. A teacher must always know the purpose and the objective of the lesson or the classroom material they wish to create. Is it to improve students' ability to speak fluently? Is it to improve their writing? Keeping your classroom material focused would help keep your class organized.
When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers'.
When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers'. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons.
I would agree partially. I believe for Beginners if you start with the authentic material and it is difficult for them to process it, they may lose interest. For Beginners, non-native or clear English with some parts that are more simple is a good place to start. For example, if I have students with no background in English and if I immediately ask them to watch an English movie or a series they will get back to me with the comment that it was all Greek to them. So then I ask them to watch their home news channels in English. Once they are able to get the gist of what is being said, I can then wean them off these temporary support material. For advanced learners, I feel authentic material just adds to what they already know. They can emulate the speech and know what phrases to use while speaking. The nuanced parts of speech can be learnt by advanced learners just by watching native speakers speak.
I would agree partially. I believe for Beginners if you start with the authentic material and it is difficult for them to process it, they may lose interest. For Beginners, non-native or clear English with some parts that are more simple is a good place to start. For example, if I have students with no background in English and if I immediately ask them to watch an English movie or a series they will get back to me with the comment that it was all Greek to them. So then I ask them to watch their home news channels in English. Once they are able to get the gist of what is being said, I can then wean them off these temporary support material. For advanced learners, I feel authentic material just adds to what they already know. They can emulate the speech and know what phrases to use while speaking. The nuanced parts of speech can be learnt by advanced learners just by watching native speakers speak.
Which Principles of Material Design are most important for you? Why?
Which Principles of Material Design are most important for you? Why?
I think that the following principle of Material Design is what I consider the most important. It doesn't matter whether you have rich, informative and educational unless it is presented well and holds the student's interest it wouldn't matter. Because student tend to generally overlook the material that provides them with more information and rather tend to focus on those that create opportunities for having fun.
Make sure the texts and tasks are as interesting, relevant and enjoyable as possible so as to exert a positive influence on the learners’ attitudes to the language and to the process of learning it.
I think that the following principle of Material Design is what I consider the most important. It doesn't matter whether you have rich, informative and educational unless it is presented well and holds the student's interest it wouldn't matter. Because student tend to generally overlook the material that provides them with more information and rather tend to focus on those that create opportunities for having fun.
Make sure the texts and tasks are as interesting, relevant and enjoyable as possible so as to exert a positive influence on the learners’ attitudes to the language and to the process of learning it.
This is part of a lesson unit on energy efficient buildings that I would use with an intermediate level ESL science...
This is part of a lesson unit on energy efficient buildings that I would use with an intermediate level ESL science class. The images I show here would be used to brainstorm and preview what energy efficient buildings are. (What is not included in the link below are the TED talks that I would show to students about other examples of energy efficient buildings. The last activity here does make a slight reference to it.)
Next week in class with my advanced group we are going to look at the theme of places.
Next week in class with my advanced group we are going to look at the theme of places. I've created two 'games' to supplement the materials I'm going to use.
The first is a 'magic presentation' which is an improvisation speaking activity. The Powerpoint shows pictures of places and when used on Powerpoint (not Google Drive) the images change automatically at 45 sec intervals.
One person has to speak about the picture until it changes. When the picture changes the person speaking changes too. You can have all eyes on one group or have mini groups do it concurrently to a smaller audience.
All the photos used were taken by my friends or me. I got them all from Facebook.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-Y8v7Wjp3LSRtYnVYTSPZgJLDILG99uh/view?usp=sharing
The second activity is an information gap crossword to review the vocabulary. This is one of my favourite activities but it's the first time I've created my own. I used the site Half a crossword to create it. The students will split into groups a and b. The A group will collaborate to write the clues and the Bs too. Then A and B will form pairs to complete the crossword.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ixevY8bBN-tP843DsqWT8pGeT3ehZAzt/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ixevY8bBN-tP843DsqWT8pGeT3ehZAzt/view?usp=sharing
The first is a 'magic presentation' which is an improvisation speaking activity. The Powerpoint shows pictures of places and when used on Powerpoint (not Google Drive) the images change automatically at 45 sec intervals.
One person has to speak about the picture until it changes. When the picture changes the person speaking changes too. You can have all eyes on one group or have mini groups do it concurrently to a smaller audience.
All the photos used were taken by my friends or me. I got them all from Facebook.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-Y8v7Wjp3LSRtYnVYTSPZgJLDILG99uh/view?usp=sharing
The second activity is an information gap crossword to review the vocabulary. This is one of my favourite activities but it's the first time I've created my own. I used the site Half a crossword to create it. The students will split into groups a and b. The A group will collaborate to write the clues and the Bs too. Then A and B will form pairs to complete the crossword.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ixevY8bBN-tP843DsqWT8pGeT3ehZAzt/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ixevY8bBN-tP843DsqWT8pGeT3ehZAzt/view?usp=sharing
The one piece of advice I would give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material is to think of the...
The one piece of advice I would give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material is to think of the audience (i.e., the teachers and the students) who will be using the materials. The teacher needs to think how their material is different and will be more helpful than the multitude of material that is out there. This includes making sure the directions are clear and tasks make sense. As one teacher once said to me, there is no point to "reinvent the wheel" if the wheel is working. But if the materials will be more helpful in reaching the classroom goals, then the teacher should be creating new materials to help the students learn in the classroom.
My goal is to research more, learn more, get new ideas, become more creative and meet new interesting people.
My goal is to research more, learn more, get new ideas, become more creative and meet new interesting people. I really enjoy the material-writing journey so far and I want to keep enjoying it!
PS: Seeing myself having met the deadline for the project I'm doing right now, would also be desirable :-)
PS: Seeing myself having met the deadline for the project I'm doing right now, would also be desirable :-)
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
In 12 months time, I would like to be finally publishing some of the ELT materials that I have been researching and trialing for the past few years. I think that all of the help Katherine Bilsborough has given me will be a tremendous assistance in that direction. Thank you very much, Katherine, for all of your help! I hope to also be receiving some revenues from those publications. This would allow me to travel to and enjoy some of the many exotic places that my ELT students call home. I love to travel and see the world.
In 12 months time, I would like to be finally publishing some of the ELT materials that I have been researching and trialing for the past few years. I think that all of the help Katherine Bilsborough has given me will be a tremendous assistance in that direction. Thank you very much, Katherine, for all of your help! I hope to also be receiving some revenues from those publications. This would allow me to travel to and enjoy some of the many exotic places that my ELT students call home. I love to travel and see the world.
Thursday, July 26, 2018
Firstly, my apologies for the delay in getting this finished.
Firstly, my apologies for the delay in getting this finished.
This is primarily aimed at high school, university students, and adults learners in EFL contexts, particularly Asia, where a lack of fluency is prevalent (mostly due to limited exposure or opportunities to use English and education systems that focus on rote memorisation, grammar translation, and written exams).
The lesson aims to (1) explore and understand fluency, and (2) understand and improve our fluency development practices.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NuFPx6oSvdy2G5V5YuJIgV4R4jtvb5a6/view?usp=sharing
(The materials will also be used in part of a teacher development workshop in August 2018 at the MELTA 2018 Conference, Malaysia.)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NuFPx6oSvdy2G5V5YuJIgV4R4jtvb5a6/view?usp=sharing
This is primarily aimed at high school, university students, and adults learners in EFL contexts, particularly Asia, where a lack of fluency is prevalent (mostly due to limited exposure or opportunities to use English and education systems that focus on rote memorisation, grammar translation, and written exams).
The lesson aims to (1) explore and understand fluency, and (2) understand and improve our fluency development practices.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NuFPx6oSvdy2G5V5YuJIgV4R4jtvb5a6/view?usp=sharing
(The materials will also be used in part of a teacher development workshop in August 2018 at the MELTA 2018 Conference, Malaysia.)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NuFPx6oSvdy2G5V5YuJIgV4R4jtvb5a6/view?usp=sharing
When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers'.
When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers'. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons.
Some years ago, I would say that it was important, but now I always consider using non-native audio and video, as students need to be in contact with all the "Englishes" used and spoken around the world.
Before, I would use just British and American English, and sometimes a native speaker from Scotland or Australia.
Now, I´ve been studying the Lingua Franca concept and the more variety we have, the better.
Some years ago, I would say that it was important, but now I always consider using non-native audio and video, as students need to be in contact with all the "Englishes" used and spoken around the world.
Before, I would use just British and American English, and sometimes a native speaker from Scotland or Australia.
Now, I´ve been studying the Lingua Franca concept and the more variety we have, the better.
Hi!
Hi! Before sharing my last assignment, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone. You have really impressed me with your ideas and I am so exhilarated that such wonderful teachers exist all around the world.
It has been a great pleasure to work with you all.
As for my assignment, this is a Word Association game for Young Learners. In fact, the actual words that I am using here have been chosen by one of my students who is only 7 years old. She liked the idea when I once played this game with her class so she volunteered to create a version of her own and I wanted to share it with you. You can always modify the game based on your students' level and the vocabulary that you want to teach.
Have a great summer holiday and I hope we will stay in touch :)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IwTYsyZhWn8hia-OZEa8j_NGZ_YTeUs8/view?usp=sharing
It has been a great pleasure to work with you all.
As for my assignment, this is a Word Association game for Young Learners. In fact, the actual words that I am using here have been chosen by one of my students who is only 7 years old. She liked the idea when I once played this game with her class so she volunteered to create a version of her own and I wanted to share it with you. You can always modify the game based on your students' level and the vocabulary that you want to teach.
Have a great summer holiday and I hope we will stay in touch :)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IwTYsyZhWn8hia-OZEa8j_NGZ_YTeUs8/view?usp=sharing
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Lately, I have started creating worksheets based on the principles that we have discussed here and I can tell that it requires a lot of effort. Especially, what I find really challenging is the design. Now that I have the basics, I would like to continue and learn more about how to design eye-catching worksheets (just like some of you did in previous sessions). Then, after accomplishing that, in 12 months time, I would like to be able to create a variety of classroom materials and publish them so that others can use in their own classrooms.
Lately, I have started creating worksheets based on the principles that we have discussed here and I can tell that it requires a lot of effort. Especially, what I find really challenging is the design. Now that I have the basics, I would like to continue and learn more about how to design eye-catching worksheets (just like some of you did in previous sessions). Then, after accomplishing that, in 12 months time, I would like to be able to create a variety of classroom materials and publish them so that others can use in their own classrooms.
Which one piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which one piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
I am quite new to the whole process of creating ELT Materials however, what I have noticed so far is that students like materials which are challenging enough, fun, and eye-catching (structure, fonts, colours, instruction). Therefore, my advice would be that when creating ELT materials teachers should be careful and aware if what they have decided to include in the material is proficiency-level appropriate. Moreover, teachers are always free to play with fonts, colours, and other materials' elements thus creating something which is attractive and fun. As a consequence, students would most probably be engaged and motivated to learn even more.
I am quite new to the whole process of creating ELT Materials however, what I have noticed so far is that students like materials which are challenging enough, fun, and eye-catching (structure, fonts, colours, instruction). Therefore, my advice would be that when creating ELT materials teachers should be careful and aware if what they have decided to include in the material is proficiency-level appropriate. Moreover, teachers are always free to play with fonts, colours, and other materials' elements thus creating something which is attractive and fun. As a consequence, students would most probably be engaged and motivated to learn even more.
When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers’.
When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers’.
I think that the presence of both native and non-native speakers is highly important. English learners should be exposed to a range of English varieties as this would enable them to communicate and exchange ideas with people living in various EFL settings. Also, from what I have experienced so far, students love this variety and they get excited when they listen to an accent other than the one they have listened to before.
I think that the presence of both native and non-native speakers is highly important. English learners should be exposed to a range of English varieties as this would enable them to communicate and exchange ideas with people living in various EFL settings. Also, from what I have experienced so far, students love this variety and they get excited when they listen to an accent other than the one they have listened to before.
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would like to be part of a team that is responsible for internationalizing curricula at my current workplace, a polytechnic. We are accepting more international and newcomer students as part of our 5-year plan, and this will require working with teams in each department to prepare workbooks and on-going PD opportunities. I would like to spearhead this initiative if chosen (fingers crossed!).
If this does not work out, I will continue to prepare original content for my classes, as well as work on side projects like blogging or more e-classroom support.
I would like to be part of a team that is responsible for internationalizing curricula at my current workplace, a polytechnic. We are accepting more international and newcomer students as part of our 5-year plan, and this will require working with teams in each department to prepare workbooks and on-going PD opportunities. I would like to spearhead this initiative if chosen (fingers crossed!).
If this does not work out, I will continue to prepare original content for my classes, as well as work on side projects like blogging or more e-classroom support.
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I am new at creating materials, and I was always used to use the Internet for any activity or material!
However, since I entered this community I have been considering this matter more seriously and I now try to think about designing my own materials, rather than googling and downloading them.
Nevertheless, this is a long process that I have to undergo still, but I believe that with hard work and dedication I will manage to develop a booklet of my own materials or at least some pages with my own worksheets.
I hope that after 12 months I will have more knowledge in how to design materials, follow more webinars and sessions upon this issue and publish at least one or two lesson plans that includes my personal work/activities/worksheets.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to thank you all for being such an incredible community of teachers from whom I have learned new and creative ideas for my classes. I would also like to thank Katherine for her undivided support and guidance throughout the sessions. It was a pleasure meeting you all!
I am new at creating materials, and I was always used to use the Internet for any activity or material!
However, since I entered this community I have been considering this matter more seriously and I now try to think about designing my own materials, rather than googling and downloading them.
Nevertheless, this is a long process that I have to undergo still, but I believe that with hard work and dedication I will manage to develop a booklet of my own materials or at least some pages with my own worksheets.
I hope that after 12 months I will have more knowledge in how to design materials, follow more webinars and sessions upon this issue and publish at least one or two lesson plans that includes my personal work/activities/worksheets.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to thank you all for being such an incredible community of teachers from whom I have learned new and creative ideas for my classes. I would also like to thank Katherine for her undivided support and guidance throughout the sessions. It was a pleasure meeting you all!
Greetings!
Greetings! Please find below the link to the game I've created for our week 4 assignment. It is a memory game and students get the opportunity to learn clothes vocabulary through the game. The game is appropriate for 6-7 year old learners, beginners (A1-CEFR)
https://www.educaplay.com/en/learningresources/3871412/clothes.htm
I am looking forward to your comments and feedback :).
https://www.educaplay.com/en/learningresources/3871412/clothes.htm
https://www.educaplay.com/en/learningresources/3871412/clothes.htm
I am looking forward to your comments and feedback :).
https://www.educaplay.com/en/learningresources/3871412/clothes.htm
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would like to be a better materials writer, and be able to draw on a more thorough knowledge of good quality research relating to learning. When designing materials, I want to take advantage of the knowledge about how people tend to learn best so that the skills or language I’m aiming to teach have a better chance of being understood, remembered and used successfully.
I’m also aiming to explain more about why I’m teaching something to students and why I’m using a particular method or format. Using more research to inform my materials and their design will mean I can justify better what I’m doing. Furthermore, I’ll be operating in the same way that my students should as members of an academic community, justifying what they research, how they research, and being open about it.
I would like to be a better materials writer, and be able to draw on a more thorough knowledge of good quality research relating to learning. When designing materials, I want to take advantage of the knowledge about how people tend to learn best so that the skills or language I’m aiming to teach have a better chance of being understood, remembered and used successfully.
I’m also aiming to explain more about why I’m teaching something to students and why I’m using a particular method or format. Using more research to inform my materials and their design will mean I can justify better what I’m doing. Furthermore, I’ll be operating in the same way that my students should as members of an academic community, justifying what they research, how they research, and being open about it.
I know I'm very late but I would really appreciate your feedback.
I know I'm very late but I would really appreciate your feedback. My third assignment is geared towards teenagers (B1).
I have based this worksheet on pictures I had found on http://pixabay.com and pexels.com.
Notes are on the last page.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/15VHv7mVi2R7u8-7w2K3t24Tl6zkCBjg4/view?usp=sharing
I have based this worksheet on pictures I had found on http://pixabay.com and pexels.com.
Notes are on the last page.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/15VHv7mVi2R7u8-7w2K3t24Tl6zkCBjg4/view?usp=sharing
Games and activities
Games and activities
Week 1 - a course:at school
Week 2 - a reader: at school
Week 3 - a picture: the gingerbread and how his story ties into other courses
Week 4 - vocabulary game: at school
https://quizlet.com/_2h3ykw
Quizlet is awesome. You can create word list that your students are learning and then you can Have them use different activities to learn the words.
Spelling is a favorite of mine.
What’s yours?
https://quizlet.com/_2h3ykw
Week 1 - a course:at school
Week 2 - a reader: at school
Week 3 - a picture: the gingerbread and how his story ties into other courses
Week 4 - vocabulary game: at school
https://quizlet.com/_2h3ykw
Quizlet is awesome. You can create word list that your students are learning and then you can Have them use different activities to learn the words.
Spelling is a favorite of mine.
What’s yours?
https://quizlet.com/_2h3ykw
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now...?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now...?
I see myself keeping motivated as a teacher doing professional development and life long learning!
I see myself keeping motivated as a teacher doing professional development and life long learning!
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Which one piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which one piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
For listening or reading lessons have a variety of questions that include lower order thinking & higher order thinking. That is, questions that are easy to answer and questions that are a little more challenging to answer. The lower order thinking tasks (e.g. what colour was the car?, how many...?) should be questions that most students can answer by interacting with the text. The higher order thinking tasks (e.g. why do you think she did that?) are the ones that perhaps can challenge the students who quickly finished the first set of questions.
For listening or reading lessons have a variety of questions that include lower order thinking & higher order thinking. That is, questions that are easy to answer and questions that are a little more challenging to answer. The lower order thinking tasks (e.g. what colour was the car?, how many...?) should be questions that most students can answer by interacting with the text. The higher order thinking tasks (e.g. why do you think she did that?) are the ones that perhaps can challenge the students who quickly finished the first set of questions.
In 12 months time, I would like to be settled into a teaching routine that allows me time to produce my own...
In 12 months time, I would like to be settled into a teaching routine that allows me time to produce my own materials for my classes. I'd like to be able to share and write about these on my blog. Having done this course, I hope I will create consistent and clear materials that can be reused time and time again. I will have developed an inspiration bank of possible authentic materials (as suggested by other participants) and I will be more organised in how I store my own materials.
The course has inspired me to read more about the theory behind materials writing and I'd like to continue doing that. It's also reinforced how much I enjoy exchanging ideas and learning from others.
The course has inspired me to read more about the theory behind materials writing and I'd like to continue doing that. It's also reinforced how much I enjoy exchanging ideas and learning from others.
I would love to see myself having more time to thinks, plan and write.
I would love to see myself having more time to thinks, plan and write. I guess I need to find the right time and put things in order at school to have that time too! I am needing one extra day a week at least to cope with school, students, husband, house...
In 12 months time, I'd like to have built up my own database of materials to use and to have ventured a little bit...
In 12 months time, I'd like to have built up my own database of materials to use and to have ventured a little bit deeper into the network of materials writers. I see myself in a stable, quiet workplace with some established habits that make my work more methodical and structured (without suppressing any of the creativity that comes with chaos). And plants, lots of plants. :)
I had actually created this a week back, but couldn't find time to post it online.
I had actually created this a week back, but couldn't find time to post it online. Please review and provide feedback.
Would be much appreciated ...
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QqnaREOBKrWC9UF_swsFyeXuZ2B4Fhj8
Would be much appreciated ...
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QqnaREOBKrWC9UF_swsFyeXuZ2B4Fhj8
12 months later -
12 months later -
I envision helping my students via course development and blended learning strategies.
Here is a link to my website that I am beta testing with my students at present.
Check it out if you are curious.
learn.burtonenglishschool.com/?accessally_user=rhettburton80@gmail.com@gmail.com&accessally_pwd=KCqO6tQi
I envision helping my students via course development and blended learning strategies.
Here is a link to my website that I am beta testing with my students at present.
Check it out if you are curious.
learn.burtonenglishschool.com/?accessally_user=rhettburton80@gmail.com@gmail.com&accessally_pwd=KCqO6tQi
In 12 months' time I see myself working at my desk in a new home, exploring writing opportunities and devoting at...
In 12 months' time I see myself working at my desk in a new home, exploring writing opportunities and devoting at least one day a week to writing.
Hi, here is my week 4 assignment: a colleague recommended Kahoot some time ago, but I never found the time to sit...
Hi, here is my week 4 assignment: a colleague recommended Kahoot some time ago, but I never found the time to sit down and learn how to use it...well until now! It's a B2 game for older teens (16+) where players reorder sentences containing discourse markers. As it's been the first time I've used Kahoot, please let me know if it works and if any settings need changing (e.g. time limit).
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/94dcd0e3-d39f-46a5-9caf-030147a66591
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/94dcd0e3-d39f-46a5-9caf-030147a66591
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/94dcd0e3-d39f-46a5-9caf-030147a66591
https://play.kahoot.it/#/k/94dcd0e3-d39f-46a5-9caf-030147a66591
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
I would like to ask a question - Is there a designer who gives the final touch to all the material - decorating the...
I would like to ask a question - Is there a designer who gives the final touch to all the material - decorating the pages, texts, exercises....or the author is the one who does it all, when we speak about writing a student's book for example?
Here is my week 3 assignment- sorry it's late.
Here is my week 3 assignment- sorry it's late. At the end of the last course, I worked with my exam classes to produce 'How to' video tutorials for the speaking exams. The idea being that these create a bank of student-generated materials to be used with future classes (which motivated the classes producing the videos I hope!).
For the week 3 assignment, I have created a simple worksheet to be used with the student-generated video related to the FCE speaking part 4. The aim is to review and consolidate interaction skills.
Here's the video link
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IBmZiyb0GXs23KjNUUq4TAQMQi8rQ25e/view?usp=sharing
Instructions
I'd play the video without images first.
For question 3 I'd play the first 20 secs.
For the following questions, again I'd play sound only the first time.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/17oYF72pNI5EGGWLLVETXMSLNEAgoV3f4/view?usp=sharing
For the week 3 assignment, I have created a simple worksheet to be used with the student-generated video related to the FCE speaking part 4. The aim is to review and consolidate interaction skills.
Here's the video link
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IBmZiyb0GXs23KjNUUq4TAQMQi8rQ25e/view?usp=sharing
Instructions
I'd play the video without images first.
For question 3 I'd play the first 20 secs.
For the following questions, again I'd play sound only the first time.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/17oYF72pNI5EGGWLLVETXMSLNEAgoV3f4/view?usp=sharing
First of all I want to say that I ENJOYED the course. I wish it lasted longer.... THANK YOU so much Katherine!!!
First of all I want to say that I ENJOYED the course. I wish it lasted longer.... THANK YOU so much Katherine!!!
For the week 4 material I designed some games and puzzles on topic 'Fruits' for young learners A1/A2 level.
The last Fruit Alphabet picture I used is from www.etsy.com.
I am so happy I was part of such a wonderful course!!!
For the week 4 material I designed some games and puzzles on topic 'Fruits' for young learners A1/A2 level.
The last Fruit Alphabet picture I used is from www.etsy.com.
I am so happy I was part of such a wonderful course!!!
Week 4 Discussion
Week 4 Discussion
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now...?
Well, first of all my ambition is to learn how to design beautiful worksheets. I would probably have to take another course for that. Then I would add colour and a different shape to my simple ELT worksheets. I have enjoyed creating ELT materials a loooot, and will continue doing :) this.
I believe in continuous professional development, and I love learning... Will be learning to refine skills as materials writer.
Thank you + Katherine for such a motivating experience, and the opportunity to be a participant :)
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now...?
Well, first of all my ambition is to learn how to design beautiful worksheets. I would probably have to take another course for that. Then I would add colour and a different shape to my simple ELT worksheets. I have enjoyed creating ELT materials a loooot, and will continue doing :) this.
I believe in continuous professional development, and I love learning... Will be learning to refine skills as materials writer.
Thank you + Katherine for such a motivating experience, and the opportunity to be a participant :)
Week 4 Materials
Week 4 Materials
" Game or Puzzle - Based Activities "
This week's classroom material is the follow - up for Week 3 Materials based on the topic " Relationships and Human Values. Friendship. "
Used Scramblinator to jumble proverbs
Appropriate for B1/B2 learners.
MyEnglishTeacher is the source from which I took the proverbs and explanations to them.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iVb3M6Aep9Ik-TN0iZx6UFl6z_ajEEXpew1pK-QbTy8
" Game or Puzzle - Based Activities "
This week's classroom material is the follow - up for Week 3 Materials based on the topic " Relationships and Human Values. Friendship. "
Used Scramblinator to jumble proverbs
Appropriate for B1/B2 learners.
MyEnglishTeacher is the source from which I took the proverbs and explanations to them.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iVb3M6Aep9Ik-TN0iZx6UFl6z_ajEEXpew1pK-QbTy8
Where do I see myself in 12 months from now in terms of a material writing?
Where do I see myself in 12 months from now in terms of a material writing?
It is my very big desire to make a material for preschoolers and my wish came true with this course to learn a lot about it!!! THANK YOU!!!
I have made some ELT materials for my adults learners before, but now I have a frame in my mind about the important aspects when it comes to creating it.
I need to read a lot and I hope that in near future my book will see the light of the day!!!
It is my very big desire to make a material for preschoolers and my wish came true with this course to learn a lot about it!!! THANK YOU!!!
I have made some ELT materials for my adults learners before, but now I have a frame in my mind about the important aspects when it comes to creating it.
I need to read a lot and I hope that in near future my book will see the light of the day!!!
Assignment 3
Assignment 3
Hi
I have attachment my week three assignment. I found some photos on pixabay. the problem is that they are watermarked so I `m not sure if they can be used without any copyright infringement
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1XQH9NguptXNQMxjmNbhD9YBYZNP1uX7b
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1XQH9NguptXNQMxjmNbhD9YBYZNP1uX7b
Hi
I have attachment my week three assignment. I found some photos on pixabay. the problem is that they are watermarked so I `m not sure if they can be used without any copyright infringement
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1XQH9NguptXNQMxjmNbhD9YBYZNP1uX7b
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1XQH9NguptXNQMxjmNbhD9YBYZNP1uX7b
This is my week 3 material.
This is my week 3 material. I used a photo of my daughter and her best friend Davor for teaching comparison of adjectives. / Young Learners, A1 - A2 level appropriate /
Firstly, I want to thank everyone for these four weeks.
Firstly, I want to thank everyone for these four weeks. I have learned a lot. I want to thank those who put their valuable time into giving me feedback and hopefully you can use my worksheets in your own classroom. Thanks again.
Week 4 assignment: Directions and Puzzles. For sure, directions is my weakest area. This worksheet is based on a video that I made for my YouTube channel (YouTube @ Mark Kulek). The video is yet to be released. Please help me get the directions straight. I think Katherine had a brilliant idea for keeping a directions bank. I would like to make a deposit, please. Thank you for your time.
Mark Kulek
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s6yU3nlxAuHr_oo2MwTTACKmMkbsJcGA/view?usp=sharing
Week 4 assignment: Directions and Puzzles. For sure, directions is my weakest area. This worksheet is based on a video that I made for my YouTube channel (YouTube @ Mark Kulek). The video is yet to be released. Please help me get the directions straight. I think Katherine had a brilliant idea for keeping a directions bank. I would like to make a deposit, please. Thank you for your time.
Mark Kulek
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s6yU3nlxAuHr_oo2MwTTACKmMkbsJcGA/view?usp=sharing
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I want to keep learning, growing and experimenting with more ways to create materials that can make my students more aware of the social dimension of language learning. For the past few years I have been interested in what I see as the two extremes: tech tools and Lms in classrooms and at the same time simplicity in teaching. As far as the second is concerned, I started a series of posts on my blog called "Class Objects Revisited" which I plan to expand on and possibly create an e-book of several activities that focus on maximising the use of what is already available to us. As far as technology in the classroom is concerned, I'm interested in exploring more the ways tech tools can further promote student driven learning and possibly create tutorials on how they can be used in that direction.
I want to keep learning, growing and experimenting with more ways to create materials that can make my students more aware of the social dimension of language learning. For the past few years I have been interested in what I see as the two extremes: tech tools and Lms in classrooms and at the same time simplicity in teaching. As far as the second is concerned, I started a series of posts on my blog called "Class Objects Revisited" which I plan to expand on and possibly create an e-book of several activities that focus on maximising the use of what is already available to us. As far as technology in the classroom is concerned, I'm interested in exploring more the ways tech tools can further promote student driven learning and possibly create tutorials on how they can be used in that direction.
Monday, July 23, 2018
Where do I see myself in the next 12 months?
Where do I see myself in the next 12 months?
I would like to have a complete set of materials developed for the 3 main courses I'll be teaching at my university (for the foreseeable future).
I'd like these to follow the principles that we discussed in this course, but also to have a unified style to them so that students can tell (if they're paying attention) that they have been thoughtfully put together.
Will it happen? Not if it stays this hot here (currently 37 degrees).
I would like to have a complete set of materials developed for the 3 main courses I'll be teaching at my university (for the foreseeable future).
I'd like these to follow the principles that we discussed in this course, but also to have a unified style to them so that students can tell (if they're paying attention) that they have been thoughtfully put together.
Will it happen? Not if it stays this hot here (currently 37 degrees).
Hey guys
Hey guys,
Do you mind sharing the laptop you’re using now? I plan to buy a new laptop. I’m using ASUS but I’m not happy with it.
Do you mind sharing the laptop you’re using now? I plan to buy a new laptop. I’m using ASUS but I’m not happy with it.
Greeting!
Greeting!
Since the third week was about SGM, I really conducted one for my students. Before this lesson, I encourage my students to run a Saving Turtle Campaign. After this lesson, we are really going to a Turtle Hatchery Center to hand over the fund raised!
The aim of the lesson is to make students write an article. Rather than simply giving students the points, students have to come up with their own. They will have the opportunities to study the points shared through the Gallery Walk discussion strategy before selecting the points that they believe are the most relevant. With the points, they are then able to write an article. individually.
Yeay?
Since the third week was about SGM, I really conducted one for my students. Before this lesson, I encourage my students to run a Saving Turtle Campaign. After this lesson, we are really going to a Turtle Hatchery Center to hand over the fund raised!
The aim of the lesson is to make students write an article. Rather than simply giving students the points, students have to come up with their own. They will have the opportunities to study the points shared through the Gallery Walk discussion strategy before selecting the points that they believe are the most relevant. With the points, they are then able to write an article. individually.
Yeay?
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
All good things must come to an end, and I want to thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas via discussions and materials. I do hope we meet again in another course. Feel free to add me on LinkedIn to stay in touch!
Here are my go-to games: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1-D6qxBNKPNTpS_SOupCQe1zsKKi6NLdm
They are not originally mine, but they are the ones I use the most. Very communicative and a couple incorporate technology.
Cheers,
Emel
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1-D6qxBNKPNTpS_SOupCQe1zsKKi6NLdm
All good things must come to an end, and I want to thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas via discussions and materials. I do hope we meet again in another course. Feel free to add me on LinkedIn to stay in touch!
Here are my go-to games: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1-D6qxBNKPNTpS_SOupCQe1zsKKi6NLdm
They are not originally mine, but they are the ones I use the most. Very communicative and a couple incorporate technology.
Cheers,
Emel
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1-D6qxBNKPNTpS_SOupCQe1zsKKi6NLdm
Where do I see myself in the next 12 months?
Where do I see myself in the next 12 months?
I have a clear idea of how I want to progress.
#1 I need to do more reading on creating and developing materials
#2 I have made up my mind to engage someone to teach me how to create worksheets that are simple and effectively designed using the simplest tools.
#3. I have created a presence using Google materials for my blogsite and also a Facebook page. I want to regularly upload and write in these sites.
#4. With the experience I gain, I want to offer a similar course here in Karachi, Pakistan. It will be a face-to-face program spread over a week making it 20 hours.
I am truly inspired, so wish me luck.
I have a clear idea of how I want to progress.
#1 I need to do more reading on creating and developing materials
#2 I have made up my mind to engage someone to teach me how to create worksheets that are simple and effectively designed using the simplest tools.
#3. I have created a presence using Google materials for my blogsite and also a Facebook page. I want to regularly upload and write in these sites.
#4. With the experience I gain, I want to offer a similar course here in Karachi, Pakistan. It will be a face-to-face program spread over a week making it 20 hours.
I am truly inspired, so wish me luck.
hello everyone -
hello everyone -
This is my assignment for week 3. I apologize for being late.
When I use pictures, I mostly use them as a warm-up activity for my younger students. I thought this might be a good journal assignment for a writing class for young ELL students. It was good practice citing using the Creative Commons materials. If would appreciate it if anyone could give me feedback on how I cited the pictures.
This is my assignment for week 3. I apologize for being late.
When I use pictures, I mostly use them as a warm-up activity for my younger students. I thought this might be a good journal assignment for a writing class for young ELL students. It was good practice citing using the Creative Commons materials. If would appreciate it if anyone could give me feedback on how I cited the pictures.
Which one piece of advice would you give to a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom materials?
Which one piece of advice would you give to a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom materials?
I agree with Michael in that I would advise always asking for feedback, particularly from students. It wouldn’t have to be at the end of every class or involve great detail as there’s the possibility it could be seen as tiresome and unproductive by the learners. You would also need to explain why you were asking for it. But the key point is that we need to know how well the material works from the perspective of the people who experience it and who it is ultimately designed for.
When we receive feedback we shouldn’t automatically accept what we’re told – it needs to make sense in the context of the course and class aims. And some of it will need to be followed up, asking for more explanation as to why something was thought to work or not. But if the aim is to design materials that successfully help students improve their skills, their feedback is invaluable.
I agree with Michael in that I would advise always asking for feedback, particularly from students. It wouldn’t have to be at the end of every class or involve great detail as there’s the possibility it could be seen as tiresome and unproductive by the learners. You would also need to explain why you were asking for it. But the key point is that we need to know how well the material works from the perspective of the people who experience it and who it is ultimately designed for.
When we receive feedback we shouldn’t automatically accept what we’re told – it needs to make sense in the context of the course and class aims. And some of it will need to be followed up, asking for more explanation as to why something was thought to work or not. But if the aim is to design materials that successfully help students improve their skills, their feedback is invaluable.
Hello everyone! Excuse my delay, but I was very busy preparing our new project at the publishing house I work for.
Hello everyone! Excuse my delay, but I was very busy preparing our new project at the publishing house I work for.
Here is what I've created for week 2 assignment. I hope you will enjoy it.
Thanks for reading and commenting!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ro7VbgJ9BjuKgFzfOANe3_H1WR5uKCVY/view?usp=sharing
Here is what I've created for week 2 assignment. I hope you will enjoy it.
Thanks for reading and commenting!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ro7VbgJ9BjuKgFzfOANe3_H1WR5uKCVY/view?usp=sharing
Here is my game material created with "www.wordwall.net".
Here is my game material created with "www.wordwall.net".
Thanks to Katherine and to all the participants for the great course!
Thanks to Katherine and to all the participants for the great course!
Sunday, July 22, 2018
Hello
Hello,
Here is my work for assignment 4.
The pictures are taken from Openclipart (Creative Commons Zero 1.0)
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iifZh_bQ2qhN3V8lweQXGWqnPxLVRD7k
Thank you Katherine and all iTDi board members for this inspiring learning opportunity.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iifZh_bQ2qhN3V8lweQXGWqnPxLVRD7k
Here is my work for assignment 4.
The pictures are taken from Openclipart (Creative Commons Zero 1.0)
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iifZh_bQ2qhN3V8lweQXGWqnPxLVRD7k
Thank you Katherine and all iTDi board members for this inspiring learning opportunity.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iifZh_bQ2qhN3V8lweQXGWqnPxLVRD7k
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
I would tell them that before they create their own materials to review some similar materials, and publish their findings in a related newsletter, or magazine, so that they have to decide/find a set of criteria to evaluate them, and then to analyze what the author was trying to do, and whether they achieved it, and what could be improved. Furthermore, the reviewer would also have to decide on whether they would actually use these materials, and to what degree. This process would help the teacher to have a clearer vision of what they would and would not like to do. This publishing process would hopefully enable them to be more rigorous in their own material design too.
I would tell them that before they create their own materials to review some similar materials, and publish their findings in a related newsletter, or magazine, so that they have to decide/find a set of criteria to evaluate them, and then to analyze what the author was trying to do, and whether they achieved it, and what could be improved. Furthermore, the reviewer would also have to decide on whether they would actually use these materials, and to what degree. This process would help the teacher to have a clearer vision of what they would and would not like to do. This publishing process would hopefully enable them to be more rigorous in their own material design too.
What I would really like to do is to create a series of online courses for training EFL teachers in pedagogy and...
What I would really like to do is to create a series of online courses for training EFL teachers in pedagogy and instructional technology. That's the part about 'dreaming big'.
As for 'starting small', I would like to finish the first of these courses which will focus on 'teaching and assessing writing using web 2.0 tools'.
As for 'starting small', I would like to finish the first of these courses which will focus on 'teaching and assessing writing using web 2.0 tools'.
Hi everyone
Hi everyone,
Here's my week 3 task. I have a question for you. I have used a transcript, which I have referenced. I guess that it would be ok for classroom material, but not if I was going to publish it. What are your thoughts about using or quoting academically published materials? Thank-you for your time.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yujN1zGll62HU85ksXI6-E4FfzWSNxVE/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yujN1zGll62HU85ksXI6-E4FfzWSNxVE/view?usp=sharing
Here's my week 3 task. I have a question for you. I have used a transcript, which I have referenced. I guess that it would be ok for classroom material, but not if I was going to publish it. What are your thoughts about using or quoting academically published materials? Thank-you for your time.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yujN1zGll62HU85ksXI6-E4FfzWSNxVE/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yujN1zGll62HU85ksXI6-E4FfzWSNxVE/view?usp=sharing
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
Where would you like to see yourself 12 months from now, in terms of being a materials writer?
I would like to see myself completing some of the writing projects I have had on my mind for a few years now (hopefully, with the help of Katherine’s course we have just completed and Dorothy’s course I am going to re-take in Sept., this will eventually get done). And I would like to write more materials to raise awareness of human and animal rights (and to publish them in various places, including my blog http://eltforabetterworld.blogspot.com/). But first, bringing old ideas to life
- that's my goal! Fingers crossed!
I would like to see myself completing some of the writing projects I have had on my mind for a few years now (hopefully, with the help of Katherine’s course we have just completed and Dorothy’s course I am going to re-take in Sept., this will eventually get done). And I would like to write more materials to raise awareness of human and animal rights (and to publish them in various places, including my blog http://eltforabetterworld.blogspot.com/). But first, bringing old ideas to life
- that's my goal! Fingers crossed!
If you are working toward a certificate of accomplishment or distinction, you will need to submit a portfolio to...
If you are working toward a certificate of accomplishment or distinction, you will need to submit a portfolio to Katherine. This is a google drive folder with the materials you created in this course. Share it with both Katherine and me (emails are in the message I just sent). If you aren't sure how to create a google drive folder and add docs to it, here's a short video tutorial.
https://youtu.be/WacC0ydeZTA
https://youtu.be/WacC0ydeZTA
HI all
HI all
Lesson plan:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1F24aaI3LarFtTZCXgWKBVrGVvy0XdCZLUZPY-M8VcjI
Materials
https://drive.google.com/open?id=17RtXb388e3M-e56o1pXUJO-mx4mMWyYd
I have attached my week two assignment. Using the vocabulqry profiler, the text should be aimed for pre-intermediate and intermediate students. To evaluate students² understanding of the text they are given numbers. They need to look back at the text in order to tell the significqnce of these numbers.
I have chosen to use this text with my FCE and CAE students. In order to grqde it to their level I have designed a gapped text activity, which many of the students at this level find it chalenging. Students also have to identify the writer²s attitude and practise agreeing and disagreeing with his ideas. The objective of this activity is to encourage students to extract ideas from a text and use them in speaking especially part three (in both FCE and CAE) where they have to prctise agreeing and disagreeing with another exam candidate
https://drive.google.com/open?id=17RtXb388e3M-e56o1pXUJO-mx4mMWyYd
Lesson plan:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1F24aaI3LarFtTZCXgWKBVrGVvy0XdCZLUZPY-M8VcjI
Materials
https://drive.google.com/open?id=17RtXb388e3M-e56o1pXUJO-mx4mMWyYd
I have attached my week two assignment. Using the vocabulqry profiler, the text should be aimed for pre-intermediate and intermediate students. To evaluate students² understanding of the text they are given numbers. They need to look back at the text in order to tell the significqnce of these numbers.
I have chosen to use this text with my FCE and CAE students. In order to grqde it to their level I have designed a gapped text activity, which many of the students at this level find it chalenging. Students also have to identify the writer²s attitude and practise agreeing and disagreeing with his ideas. The objective of this activity is to encourage students to extract ideas from a text and use them in speaking especially part three (in both FCE and CAE) where they have to prctise agreeing and disagreeing with another exam candidate
https://drive.google.com/open?id=17RtXb388e3M-e56o1pXUJO-mx4mMWyYd
I think it's important to start with the end in mind.
I think it's important to start with the end in mind. A lot of materials lack focus because their outcomes haven't been clearly defined. Write your outcomes and then plan learning content for each outcome and flesh this content out as texts, activities and tasks.
Hello, everybody!
Hello, everybody!
This is my assignment for week 3. I made some quick activities focusing on interjections, vocabulary and expressions relating to feelings. I hope you enjoy it and look forward to your feedback!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/160wgFdlUS-hjlHgibFlw5mTCj_d_6fdt/view?usp=sharing
This is my assignment for week 3. I made some quick activities focusing on interjections, vocabulary and expressions relating to feelings. I hope you enjoy it and look forward to your feedback!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/160wgFdlUS-hjlHgibFlw5mTCj_d_6fdt/view?usp=sharing
Keeping in mind the actual objective of every single task, activity or lesson is something I find very useful.
Keeping in mind the actual objective of every single task, activity or lesson is something I find very useful. I’ve often used (and created) materials which seem fresh but offer very limited learning outcomes. This usually results in consuming valuable classroom time to do something which is motivating and fun but does not offer much in terms of language learning. To sum up, my advice would be: “Don’t be innovative just to be innovative”.
I still owed you my week 2 assignment.
I still owed you my week 2 assignment. Sorry for the delay. Hopefully, some of you can still have a look and let me know what they think.
My materials are based on an excerpt from "Pollyanna" by Eleanor H. Porter - a lovely story to discuss with your Ss.
Only because of the language level of the original story, I put the level up to C2 (and age up to 16). If you have access to a simpler version, you can absolutely use my materials with younger Ss at a lower level, as well.
My materials are based on an excerpt from "Pollyanna" by Eleanor H. Porter - a lovely story to discuss with your Ss.
Only because of the language level of the original story, I put the level up to C2 (and age up to 16). If you have access to a simpler version, you can absolutely use my materials with younger Ss at a lower level, as well.
Saturday, July 21, 2018
Which Principles of Material Design are most important for you? Why?
Which Principles of Material Design are most important for you? Why?
I haven chosen the following Principles of Material Design:
1 Make sure the texts and tasks are as interesting, relevant and enjoyable as possible so as to exert a positive influence on the learners’ attitudes to the language and to the process of learning it.
3 Make use of activities which get learners to think and feel before during and after using the target language for communication.
I truly believe learners only get engaged in their own learning process if the materials we use are interesting and make sense to them. Students must see the content as something useful and meaningful.
I´m also an enthusiast of activities that use critical thinking, and, if the material can also provide awareness besides of formal learning, much better.
I haven chosen the following Principles of Material Design:
1 Make sure the texts and tasks are as interesting, relevant and enjoyable as possible so as to exert a positive influence on the learners’ attitudes to the language and to the process of learning it.
3 Make use of activities which get learners to think and feel before during and after using the target language for communication.
I truly believe learners only get engaged in their own learning process if the materials we use are interesting and make sense to them. Students must see the content as something useful and meaningful.
I´m also an enthusiast of activities that use critical thinking, and, if the material can also provide awareness besides of formal learning, much better.
Hello everyone! Here is my week 3 assignment.
Hello everyone! Here is my week 3 assignment.
1. The first activity is designed to mimic one part of the First Certificate speaking exam as that is something I prepare a lot of my students for.
2. The second activity is a writing task because some students find it easier to think of ideas when writing them down. I would like them to develop brainstorming strategies like that. Retrospectively, I might flip this task and do the writing task first and then the speaking task because the writing could serve as a good warm-up. The speaking task is definitely more difficult for them.
3. The first photo is the only one not taken in Uruguay. It was taken in Malaysia. (These are my photos). In activity 1, photo A, they are waiting for the ferry to go back to the mainland from Penang Island. In photo B, they are waiting for the start of Las Llamadas parade, somewhat similar to Carnival, but it is a celebration of Afro-Uruguayan heritage.
Both Uruguay and Malaysia are countries I could probably mention to my high school students and they would give me completely blank looks. Thus, this leads perfectly into a mini-research project. They can choose to look up and present information on Uruguay or on Malaysia or any other country they don't know very much about. When we are talking about all these countries that we are curious about, the discussion lends itself to pulling out a map and working on place names and nationalities too.
Thank you for your feedback.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1lxqkBehl8z9Af7AeYHxYV0X3rV6WQQtk
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1lxqkBehl8z9Af7AeYHxYV0X3rV6WQQtk
1. The first activity is designed to mimic one part of the First Certificate speaking exam as that is something I prepare a lot of my students for.
2. The second activity is a writing task because some students find it easier to think of ideas when writing them down. I would like them to develop brainstorming strategies like that. Retrospectively, I might flip this task and do the writing task first and then the speaking task because the writing could serve as a good warm-up. The speaking task is definitely more difficult for them.
3. The first photo is the only one not taken in Uruguay. It was taken in Malaysia. (These are my photos). In activity 1, photo A, they are waiting for the ferry to go back to the mainland from Penang Island. In photo B, they are waiting for the start of Las Llamadas parade, somewhat similar to Carnival, but it is a celebration of Afro-Uruguayan heritage.
Both Uruguay and Malaysia are countries I could probably mention to my high school students and they would give me completely blank looks. Thus, this leads perfectly into a mini-research project. They can choose to look up and present information on Uruguay or on Malaysia or any other country they don't know very much about. When we are talking about all these countries that we are curious about, the discussion lends itself to pulling out a map and working on place names and nationalities too.
Thank you for your feedback.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1lxqkBehl8z9Af7AeYHxYV0X3rV6WQQtk
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1lxqkBehl8z9Af7AeYHxYV0X3rV6WQQtk
I'm very late to the discussion and many of you here have made very interesting points.
I'm very late to the discussion and many of you here have made very interesting points. Many of you have made a good point by stating that nonnative speakers have outnumbered native speakers; to which I'd like to add that the English language, like any other social construct, is not a fixed and/or homogeneous entity. A large percentage of native speakers, like non-native speakers, are exposed to different accents and dialects, on a daily basis, which increases the chances of language contamination. This makes me wonder: what qualities do we look for in a native-speaker's text? Are they always present if the native factor is? Are these same qualities exclusive to native speakers?
I still think, for that reason, that context is key. For instance, I know that my A1 students have trouble understanding non-native speakers with pronounced accents, and notice that they have less difficulties recognising sounds when 'standard' English is spoken. Hence, because it's familiar to them, native-speakers' English becomes preferable.
As mentioned before, in the discussion, it also depends on where, when, and with whom students are going to use the language. If they're more likely to come across English spoken by non-native speakers, then it would be more useful to expose them to the same variety of English. The opposite also applies.
Long story short, I think that it's hard to define what we mean by English spoken by a native-speaker; and even if we do, the materials we use should be chosen with the students' needs in mind.
I still think, for that reason, that context is key. For instance, I know that my A1 students have trouble understanding non-native speakers with pronounced accents, and notice that they have less difficulties recognising sounds when 'standard' English is spoken. Hence, because it's familiar to them, native-speakers' English becomes preferable.
As mentioned before, in the discussion, it also depends on where, when, and with whom students are going to use the language. If they're more likely to come across English spoken by non-native speakers, then it would be more useful to expose them to the same variety of English. The opposite also applies.
Long story short, I think that it's hard to define what we mean by English spoken by a native-speaker; and even if we do, the materials we use should be chosen with the students' needs in mind.
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
One advice that I would like to give to a teacher, and to myself as well as a reminder, would be to always put yourself in the students' shoes. Always think whether they would benefit from the materials or not. Think about what the students want, remember them and try to differentiate between materials so that all students get a chance to be involved in the process.
One advice that I would like to give to a teacher, and to myself as well as a reminder, would be to always put yourself in the students' shoes. Always think whether they would benefit from the materials or not. Think about what the students want, remember them and try to differentiate between materials so that all students get a chance to be involved in the process.
Greetings, everyone!
Greetings, everyone! Below you can find my week 3 materials. This time I have chosen to teach students about vegetables through the usage of memes. My students love memes, so I thought of finding ways to use them in the classroom. I tend to write my own memes, but I use pictures which are takes from the Internet.
I am looking forward to your comments.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1y17xqvDNR9yf1-1WGpudFG3kK3EyEmaH
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1y17xqvDNR9yf1-1WGpudFG3kK3EyEmaH
I am looking forward to your comments.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1y17xqvDNR9yf1-1WGpudFG3kK3EyEmaH
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1y17xqvDNR9yf1-1WGpudFG3kK3EyEmaH
I advise materials writers to focus on form rather than on forms.
I advise materials writers to focus on form rather than on forms. It would be more meaningful to opt for task-based activities in order to develop students' skills rather than merely have the activities as pretexts for a mechanical study of structures.
Hello
Hello,
Here is my work for the third assignment. Thank you #Erëza for reminding me of storyboardthat. I used an old story made by a group of students on that platform to prepare this SGM.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SBAmUXED2XJZDaWM7lV3PW2oVcaxVYhn/view?usp=sharing
Here is my work for the third assignment. Thank you #Erëza for reminding me of storyboardthat. I used an old story made by a group of students on that platform to prepare this SGM.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SBAmUXED2XJZDaWM7lV3PW2oVcaxVYhn/view?usp=sharing
Hi everyone
Hi everyone,
This week I focused more on creating a worksheet. I used one of my students' projects on "The Ideal School" to create a worksheet that can be used as one of the stages leading to a similar project . I thought it would be easy, but I had to edit the students' poster to be able to use it . I also tried Canva, a website recommended by Ahlem Marrakchi , for the first as I have seen a lot of her beautiful lesson materials. I had to create my worksheet on Word first, then it was easier to choose a template from Canva and edit it according to the content I have. It's not that beautiful, but I think it's fine in terms of using SGM to create an activity. You can find the worksheet here https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sB0aRvzjsrMU1pKy8SzbImLwak2UrnuO/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sB0aRvzjsrMU1pKy8SzbImLwak2UrnuO/view?usp=sharing
This week I focused more on creating a worksheet. I used one of my students' projects on "The Ideal School" to create a worksheet that can be used as one of the stages leading to a similar project . I thought it would be easy, but I had to edit the students' poster to be able to use it . I also tried Canva, a website recommended by Ahlem Marrakchi , for the first as I have seen a lot of her beautiful lesson materials. I had to create my worksheet on Word first, then it was easier to choose a template from Canva and edit it according to the content I have. It's not that beautiful, but I think it's fine in terms of using SGM to create an activity. You can find the worksheet here https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sB0aRvzjsrMU1pKy8SzbImLwak2UrnuO/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sB0aRvzjsrMU1pKy8SzbImLwak2UrnuO/view?usp=sharing
Hello everyone.
Hello everyone. Here is my week 3 assignment. As a visual I have decided to use one short storyboard which I have created myself using https://www.storyboardthat.com. Based on that, I have designed two worksheets and relevant activities for B1-B2 teenage learners.
Something to share: I found http://storyboardthat.com very useful as it is an online free tool which allows you to create your own storyboards. Moreover, you can ask your students to use it. They can create their stories and have fun with the scenes, characters and many other options that this page offers.
Your feedback is more than welcome. See you tomorrow :)
P.S If you wish, you can try and decode the text yourself and let me know if it was challenging enough :)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k1iyfC92M5psv1DW8nNRn8QAVbFrYCB6/view?usp=sharing
Something to share: I found http://storyboardthat.com very useful as it is an online free tool which allows you to create your own storyboards. Moreover, you can ask your students to use it. They can create their stories and have fun with the scenes, characters and many other options that this page offers.
Your feedback is more than welcome. See you tomorrow :)
P.S If you wish, you can try and decode the text yourself and let me know if it was challenging enough :)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k1iyfC92M5psv1DW8nNRn8QAVbFrYCB6/view?usp=sharing
The advice I would like to give to materials writers (myself included) is: keep it simple.
The advice I would like to give to materials writers (myself included) is: keep it simple. This rings a bell from last course, but it still stands: simple and clear objectives, simple layout, simple instructions. It will make everybody's work more enjoyable. And, I would say especially our work as teachers. We keep pointing out that it is the students' needs that need to be prioritised, which is sacrosanct, but with increasing demands in education and language learning standards we teachers need to be particularly flexible and efficient, and it cannot happen for a long time if we do not look after our needs as people: clear materials that encourage positive thought help us get through our busy teaching lives. With a beneficial effect on the learning process!
Hi everyone!
Hi everyone!
I love memes.
My students love memes.
So, I made a lesson on critical thinking about memes, leading up to the question prompt: Memes sometimes use people’s photos without their permission. What are the potential negative effects of this? Describe 3 things people can do to stop these negative effects from happening.
I work in a digital classroom, so I made a presentation as I usually would. Teacher notes are comments in the presentation. The presentation is sent to students as a pdf so they can take notes on their iPads on the document. It's also shown on the projector in the classroom. Enjoy!
I love memes.
My students love memes.
So, I made a lesson on critical thinking about memes, leading up to the question prompt: Memes sometimes use people’s photos without their permission. What are the potential negative effects of this? Describe 3 things people can do to stop these negative effects from happening.
I work in a digital classroom, so I made a presentation as I usually would. Teacher notes are comments in the presentation. The presentation is sent to students as a pdf so they can take notes on their iPads on the document. It's also shown on the projector in the classroom. Enjoy!
Again, apologies for the delay.
Again, apologies for the delay. I also agree that English is becoming increasingly global, or -rather, the "Global English" variety is what we are increasingly asked to teach, so in this respect it makes sense to adapt materials to the context we teach in and expose students to the relevant variety of accents. As a non native speaker (with a native-like accent) I have found myself in more than an awkward situation where it was difficult to understand and make myself understood to other non-native speakers precisely because my accent was too native-like and my vocabulary too complex...food for thought: do we really need to encourage native-like standards? It really depends on the context and needs of our students
Week 3 Assignment.pdf
Hello, everyone! Here's my week 3 assignment done at the very last minute as I'm in the middle of my holidays. It's a series of tasks made for A2 learners which focus on the use of may/might, can't and must for speculation and deduction.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KqWBoyXdeAfOS0-42NNAxIRym4H5vWCh/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KqWBoyXdeAfOS0-42NNAxIRym4H5vWCh/view?usp=sharing
Reading all the other inspiring posts in our Discussion thread, I think that every piece of advice I could give has...
Reading all the other inspiring posts in our Discussion thread, I think that every piece of advice I could give has pretty much been covered :) If I could add one extra piece to the list - which extends what has been previously said about prioritising students' needs- is this: Try to create materials that go beyond the classroom setting, that is motivate your students to learn more about a topic/structure etc. outside the classroom. Give them the spark they need to explore those aspects of language they are personally interested in on their own.
As with any project, it is important for me to leave it alone and come back to it a few days later.
As with any project, it is important for me to leave it alone and come back to it a few days later. I find that I can view whatever I'm working on differently after this "break." It is easy for me to get tunnel vision or fall down the rabbit hole. So along with getting other "fresh eyes" to view your work, make sure you freshen up your own.
Hi everyone
Hi everyone
I think I've bent the rules slightly in only using an image in the teachers' notes as an answer to be shown to students. As with the Week 2 materials, I'm finding it easier to focus on skills for an academic context rather than language so any ideas on the latter would be really useful.
Comments, suggestions welcome.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bSQniiQjiPEz6936O5qzc5DYbmzYOrzf/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bSQniiQjiPEz6936O5qzc5DYbmzYOrzf/view?usp=sharing
I think I've bent the rules slightly in only using an image in the teachers' notes as an answer to be shown to students. As with the Week 2 materials, I'm finding it easier to focus on skills for an academic context rather than language so any ideas on the latter would be really useful.
Comments, suggestions welcome.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bSQniiQjiPEz6936O5qzc5DYbmzYOrzf/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bSQniiQjiPEz6936O5qzc5DYbmzYOrzf/view?usp=sharing
An interesting read relevant to our discussion (posted on fb by Linda Steyne, a colleague based in Bratislava, a few...
An interesting read relevant to our discussion (posted on fb by Linda Steyne, a colleague based in Bratislava, a few days ago).
An excerpt to get you curious: "English is a global language with many native and nonnative varieties. Worldwide, nonnative speakers of English outnumber natives by a ratio of three to one. Even in the United States, which has the largest population of native English speakers, there are, according to one estimate, nearly 50 million speakers of English as a second language. What does it even mean to sound native when so many English speakers are second-language speakers? Unless you are an embedded spy like the Jenningses ['The Americans'], it is counterproductive to hold nativelike pronunciation as the bar you have to clear."
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/14/opinion/sunday/everyone-has-an-accent.html
An excerpt to get you curious: "English is a global language with many native and nonnative varieties. Worldwide, nonnative speakers of English outnumber natives by a ratio of three to one. Even in the United States, which has the largest population of native English speakers, there are, according to one estimate, nearly 50 million speakers of English as a second language. What does it even mean to sound native when so many English speakers are second-language speakers? Unless you are an embedded spy like the Jenningses ['The Americans'], it is counterproductive to hold nativelike pronunciation as the bar you have to clear."
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/14/opinion/sunday/everyone-has-an-accent.html
I got a piece of advice from another wise man, Anastasia Loukeri.
I got a piece of advice from another wise man, Anastasia Loukeri. The wise Jamie Keddie once told me: "You are suffering from the syndrome of creative people and you try to do too many things at the same time. Don't start anything new before you first finish what you are already working on."
So, I think I would give similar advice to people like me: don't get distracted. Finish what you have started and forget for a while about anything else, even if it seems to be a fantastic opportunity. Otherwise, you will end up with a number of unfinished projects.
So, I think I would give similar advice to people like me: don't get distracted. Finish what you have started and forget for a while about anything else, even if it seems to be a fantastic opportunity. Otherwise, you will end up with a number of unfinished projects.
In an era when the image culture is so dominant, make your materials appealing, interesting and motivating.
In an era when the image culture is so dominant, make your materials appealing, interesting and motivating. At the same time, think of smart ways to make students read and think more - not only about language, but in general.
I think that students should be exposed to various sources of input coming from both native and non-native speakers.
I think that students should be exposed to various sources of input coming from both native and non-native speakers. I think that people who study English around the world are more likely to interact with non-native speakers who have also learned English through similar processes.
A wise man once told me " If you're spending too long on something, don't be afraid to toss it out and rethink your...
A wise man once told me " If you're spending too long on something, don't be afraid to toss it out and rethink your approach." Andreas Charatzidis :)
Friday, July 20, 2018
I used to teach adults with no specific interest other than they just wanted to learn the language.
I used to teach adults with no specific interest other than they just wanted to learn the language. They would come to class exhausted from work, from taking care of the kids and so on. Their mobile phones would always be on and I took advantage of that. As far as adults go, they want to talk about serious issues, but usually coursebooks don't really touch on these. The outcome was usually a heated debate. (This would be one of the mildest ones!)
PS. This is my dog, Nava.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16TQrx6nC3JVckSOI5__EviVviQVq1MUI/view?usp=sharing
PS. This is my dog, Nava.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16TQrx6nC3JVckSOI5__EviVviQVq1MUI/view?usp=sharing
Native speakerism is still a heating debate in the EFL setting where I work.
Native speakerism is still a heating debate in the EFL setting where I work. Though most practitioners here are NNESTs, there is still an entrenched belief that authentic materials are those developed by native speakers originally for a native speaking audience. This is particularly felt when it comes to audio materials with a discrepancy between teachers' preferences for British English vs students' penchant for the American one. However, this constitutes a restricting factor in terms of being exposed to different Englishes as well as finding quality materials suitable for achieving the pedagogical objectives set by the teacher.
Assignment 2
Assignment 2
With apologies for the late submission
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1a4x6IzDyvBRqUQlaFGCllFjjIZrdfh5o
PS: The text is an authentic one adapted to suit a B1 level. (changes mentioned in the comments in the word document) + the pictures are CCO with no attribution required
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1a4x6IzDyvBRqUQlaFGCllFjjIZrdfh5o
With apologies for the late submission
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1a4x6IzDyvBRqUQlaFGCllFjjIZrdfh5o
PS: The text is an authentic one adapted to suit a B1 level. (changes mentioned in the comments in the word document) + the pictures are CCO with no attribution required
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1a4x6IzDyvBRqUQlaFGCllFjjIZrdfh5o
And, my last assignment matches my writing spot these days: iced coffee on my balcony as a source of inspiration!
And, my last assignment matches my writing spot these days: iced coffee on my balcony as a source of inspiration!
Here is my week 3 assignment: it's an online conversation lesson about coffee which uses pictures as prompts.
Here is my week 3 assignment: it's an online conversation lesson about coffee which uses pictures as prompts. The level is B2 and the time is 60' to 90' approx. Notes are below each slide.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lmd1db6dXFef6HZA1bv215nWzYaOVOTA/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lmd1db6dXFef6HZA1bv215nWzYaOVOTA/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lmd1db6dXFef6HZA1bv215nWzYaOVOTA/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lmd1db6dXFef6HZA1bv215nWzYaOVOTA/view?usp=sharing
Thursday, July 19, 2018
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Try things, experiment new activities/materials in the classroom.
Try things, experiment new activities/materials in the classroom.
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
Here's my assignment for week 2. This is a lesson I had created for a lower secondary B1+ class.
Stranger Things was all they were talking about at one point, so I decided to use that to my advantage. I made some changes to make it more suitable for this assignment.
Your feedback would be much appreciated.
Notes:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_IzlMxyeUb4TudadW1JtJOIeqREJcguJ3f25HOdrUq0/edit?usp=sharing
Worksheet:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tCpWPojiPPmQfxE8VG1qxAfdPoJU3gpu/view?usp=sharing
Slides:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16J24ix045qF-xP1drPqdkhLu8dxPefl8/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16J24ix045qF-xP1drPqdkhLu8dxPefl8/view?usp=sharing
Here's my assignment for week 2. This is a lesson I had created for a lower secondary B1+ class.
Stranger Things was all they were talking about at one point, so I decided to use that to my advantage. I made some changes to make it more suitable for this assignment.
Your feedback would be much appreciated.
Notes:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_IzlMxyeUb4TudadW1JtJOIeqREJcguJ3f25HOdrUq0/edit?usp=sharing
Worksheet:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tCpWPojiPPmQfxE8VG1qxAfdPoJU3gpu/view?usp=sharing
Slides:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16J24ix045qF-xP1drPqdkhLu8dxPefl8/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16J24ix045qF-xP1drPqdkhLu8dxPefl8/view?usp=sharing
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Always bear in mind the students you teach.
Always bear in mind the students you teach.
Late but done!
Late but done!
As always, looking forward to your feedback.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1R3-26H9RoEijUPTr-PFEMCk29tSpahPb
As always, looking forward to your feedback.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1R3-26H9RoEijUPTr-PFEMCk29tSpahPb
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
There are materials that cover the topic. There are materials that cover the language. And there are materials that cover both.
Strive to make ones that do both.
There are materials that cover the topic. There are materials that cover the language. And there are materials that cover both.
Strive to make ones that do both.
Oh dear.
Oh dear. Just finished the Week 2 Assignment today. Why? My concept of authentic text is very broad! I scrolled through the posts here and committed to a news article. Usually when I need to make a homework assignment, it's done in a rush. This time I took the opportunity to "mine" the text for potential grammar and vocabulary targets before settling on the ones included. Picture shown of what that looked like.
I wanted to make a Google Form out of it since that's what I use to assign homework to students, but ran into the typical obstacle that working in a paper-less school poses: the question types would have to be modified to fit into the limited range of options digital platforms offer. Anyway, hope you enjoy reading about bringing icebergs to the desert!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eNcrQKq56qdPa8uKMVkMnoo_fg0U0QJfe_A1cEnA-3g/edit?usp=sharing
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
I am going to repeat what I have seen here already but: Make sure you stay true to what your students need. Know your students! =)
I am going to repeat what I have seen here already but: Make sure you stay true to what your students need. Know your students! =)
What one piece of advice would you give....?
What one piece of advice would you give....?
The first bit of advice I give a teacher is 'Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Start with what you have and try to improve on it'.
The first bit of advice I give a teacher is 'Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Start with what you have and try to improve on it'.
Another extra discussion topic:
Another extra discussion topic:
Making beautiful worksheets
Some course participants are very good at using technology to make beautiful worksheets. Other participants need a bit more help. Technology isn't my strong point so I'd like to invite you all to share any advice you have on making worksheets look great. Advice can be a simple tip or a link to a useful website or tool.
Making beautiful worksheets
Some course participants are very good at using technology to make beautiful worksheets. Other participants need a bit more help. Technology isn't my strong point so I'd like to invite you all to share any advice you have on making worksheets look great. Advice can be a simple tip or a link to a useful website or tool.
Week 3 Assignment: SGM.
Week 3 Assignment: SGM. Basically, this is student generated. I asked my university students to look through our textbook and write down on a slip[ of paper what they wanted me to cover again. This worksheet is what I came up with based on their requests. The theme is different than what is in the textbook ( directions for using mechanical things). Because I do not own illustrations of the things covered in the textbook, I chose chopsticks. By the way, next week is our last week of the semester so I will have to wait till the fall before we can do this worksheet.
Thank you for your time.
Mark Kulek
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I7XICYVp88P_venguY5A6vaVtEL_g1VI/view?usp=sharing
Thank you for your time.
Mark Kulek
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I7XICYVp88P_venguY5A6vaVtEL_g1VI/view?usp=sharing
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Hi everyone.
Hi everyone. This is my week 2 assignment. This is for an intermediate level English for Science class. The lesson was related to an article about Cape Town and how it may be the first major city to run out of water ("Day Zero"). Day Zero was supposed to have happened two months ago, but since the original lesson, they have postponed it to next year. So, I have had to update some of the materials for this particular lesson.
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
Here is my Week 3 assignment based on a picture of my two pets: Mocha and Cookie.
Looking forward to receiving your comments.
Here is my Week 3 assignment based on a picture of my two pets: Mocha and Cookie.
Looking forward to receiving your comments.
Week 3 Materials
Week 3 Materials
My designed activity could be the springboard for the further development of the.topic RELATIONSHIPS and HUMAN VALUES.
According to the Vocabulary Profiler the story contains 4% of B1, 1% of B2 ,76% of A1 and 6% of A2 CEFR levels vocabulary.
I would recommend to discuss this material based on picture - story combination with B1 and B2 levels, as well as.C1 and C2. Think A1 and A2 CEFR levels learners might not be ready for the discussion of the topic.
The photos for the collage are from Pixabay. Like their photos.
My designed activity could be the springboard for the further development of the.topic RELATIONSHIPS and HUMAN VALUES.
According to the Vocabulary Profiler the story contains 4% of B1, 1% of B2 ,76% of A1 and 6% of A2 CEFR levels vocabulary.
I would recommend to discuss this material based on picture - story combination with B1 and B2 levels, as well as.C1 and C2. Think A1 and A2 CEFR levels learners might not be ready for the discussion of the topic.
The photos for the collage are from Pixabay. Like their photos.
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Clear objectives and instructions. It's easy for us to understand what we want to say, but not only so much for our students.
Clear objectives and instructions. It's easy for us to understand what we want to say, but not only so much for our students.
Greetings!
Greetings!
This material is developed for A2 and B3 students. It's adapted from BBC Food website. Yummy!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AvPLk3O77QPFw-rJ8WN2Ns8BmQynIxGb/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AvPLk3O77QPFw-rJ8WN2Ns8BmQynIxGb/view?usp=sharing
This material is developed for A2 and B3 students. It's adapted from BBC Food website. Yummy!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AvPLk3O77QPFw-rJ8WN2Ns8BmQynIxGb/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AvPLk3O77QPFw-rJ8WN2Ns8BmQynIxGb/view?usp=sharing
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
I believe it is essential to expose students to non-native speakers of English in authentic audio and video...
I believe it is essential to expose students to non-native speakers of English in authentic audio and video materials. As Andreas said, English is spoken by millions of NNS, which means students will eventually - if not very often - communicate with people whose first language is not English.
Authentic song
Authentic song
The phonics song by kidstv123
Viewed over 53 million times
Data says- children love it and teachers use it.
https://youtu.be/BELlZKpi1Zs
So, as a materials developer, I redesigned the pictures.
Why?
Because I know children will like and teachers will use it.
Plus the song is something I can’t recreate and it has already been created.
Q) Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Q) Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
A) *Protect yourself from copyright infringement and protect your work*
- as strongly advised by a lawyer turned writer whose workshop I attended at the weekend.
Over the past 20 years, she's dealt with so many clients who (a) didn't think that anyone would care about their infringement (typically because they thought they were 'too small'); or (b) didn't protect their own work adequately, only to see it stolen and/or commercialised by someone else profiting on what they'd done.
She also pointed out how if you suddenly find yourself being sued for breach of copyright years after the event (perhaps once you've become more successful or even famous), it's incredibly disruptive and will cost you much, much more (time and money) than it would have done to take the appropriate steps in the first place. So always pay first (if necessary) or offer to pay later (after the fact) if you hadn't realised.
A) *Protect yourself from copyright infringement and protect your work*
- as strongly advised by a lawyer turned writer whose workshop I attended at the weekend.
Over the past 20 years, she's dealt with so many clients who (a) didn't think that anyone would care about their infringement (typically because they thought they were 'too small'); or (b) didn't protect their own work adequately, only to see it stolen and/or commercialised by someone else profiting on what they'd done.
She also pointed out how if you suddenly find yourself being sued for breach of copyright years after the event (perhaps once you've become more successful or even famous), it's incredibly disruptive and will cost you much, much more (time and money) than it would have done to take the appropriate steps in the first place. So always pay first (if necessary) or offer to pay later (after the fact) if you hadn't realised.
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Be sure the material is at the same time INTERESTING and meets the NEEDS of the students.
Be sure the material is at the same time INTERESTING and meets the NEEDS of the students.
Hello, everybody.
Hello, everybody.
This is my assignment for Week 2. Sorry for sharing it so late, but the last few days have been very busy for me. It's a worksheet for B2 students on an article from TimeOut London magazine (actually it's taken from the website - you can find all the links in my notes). I use magazines very often when I teach and I especially like TimeOut as I use it a lot to create decision making activities (what events/films to choose etc.) Here, I tried to deal with challenging vocabulary and introduce students to authentic magazine-style writing and language. I hope you enjoy it and look forward to your feedback!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WFIoPRkUz6u0E8sQKNtKUvqhVYvCIUz0/view?usp=sharing
This is my assignment for Week 2. Sorry for sharing it so late, but the last few days have been very busy for me. It's a worksheet for B2 students on an article from TimeOut London magazine (actually it's taken from the website - you can find all the links in my notes). I use magazines very often when I teach and I especially like TimeOut as I use it a lot to create decision making activities (what events/films to choose etc.) Here, I tried to deal with challenging vocabulary and introduce students to authentic magazine-style writing and language. I hope you enjoy it and look forward to your feedback!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WFIoPRkUz6u0E8sQKNtKUvqhVYvCIUz0/view?usp=sharing
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Start with your students. And come back to them often. Try to see the material the way they would see it. Ask yourself frequently if the material (still) meets the need you are trying to meet.
Start with your students. And come back to them often. Try to see the material the way they would see it. Ask yourself frequently if the material (still) meets the need you are trying to meet.
This is my Week 3 assignment.
This is my Week 3 assignment. I need to say that I had done caption contests and lessons about picture captions before but I had never taken into serious consideration the context and the copyright issues. This is why searching for funny but "appropriate for all contexts" images was not easy. I found these images in Pixabay and they were free images. This worksheet was prepared for my A2 level students. As a pre-requite for this assignment, I would state the fact that students have previously gone through picture description and this is the final part of a teaching unit about pictures which involves some simple creative writing.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/103JMwTXj2uIh1fov0eVbxi2aCQ-e5OLf/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/103JMwTXj2uIh1fov0eVbxi2aCQ-e5OLf/view?usp=sharing
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Picture downloaded from Pixabay and edited with Picmonkey.
Monday, July 16, 2018
Question: Which ONE piece of advice would you give to a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom materials?
Question: Which ONE piece of advice would you give to a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom materials?
I am not sure that I would or could just give ONE single piece of advice to a teacher who wanted to create his or her own ELT classroom materials. First, I feel that creating new materials requires some experience in the classroom with a variety of materials being used by a variety of students before creating your own materials. This allows you to see what works and doesn’t work across a diversity of students. This will allow the teacher to have the ability to create effective lessons for their students. Next, the material should always be “tweaked” to fit the target group of students and as such your created classroom materials need to have built-in flexibility. Last, allow your fellow educators (at least 1 or 2 whom you trust) to read and review your materials and if you trust them to try the materials out also in their classrooms. This three-part answer is my advice.
I am not sure that I would or could just give ONE single piece of advice to a teacher who wanted to create his or her own ELT classroom materials. First, I feel that creating new materials requires some experience in the classroom with a variety of materials being used by a variety of students before creating your own materials. This allows you to see what works and doesn’t work across a diversity of students. This will allow the teacher to have the ability to create effective lessons for their students. Next, the material should always be “tweaked” to fit the target group of students and as such your created classroom materials need to have built-in flexibility. Last, allow your fellow educators (at least 1 or 2 whom you trust) to read and review your materials and if you trust them to try the materials out also in their classrooms. This three-part answer is my advice.
I always find the term ‘native speakers’ interesting.
I always find the term ‘native speakers’ interesting. Who are we referring to? By definition, native speakers are those who speak a language from early childhood. In the world of Englishes, many children are born with English as their first language or mother tongue. So, are those who speak Fingilish for instance considered as native speakers of English?
Nevertheless, I disagree with the idea of only using ‘native speakers’ materials in lessons. Besides that educators should make aware that there are different Englishes in the world, they should also instil a sense of respect towards those who are still struggling with English (as English might be their second/third/foreign language). There are always cases that students tend to look down on people who are of lower proficiency. Rather than trying to understand them, some might just shut them off.
Nevertheless, I disagree with the idea of only using ‘native speakers’ materials in lessons. Besides that educators should make aware that there are different Englishes in the world, they should also instil a sense of respect towards those who are still struggling with English (as English might be their second/third/foreign language). There are always cases that students tend to look down on people who are of lower proficiency. Rather than trying to understand them, some might just shut them off.
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Which ONE piece of advice would you give a teacher who wanted to create their own classroom material?
Look for ways ways to do it as quickly as you can by using frameworks, templates, and guidelines because it will save you time, energy and metal bandwidth.
Look for ways ways to do it as quickly as you can by using frameworks, templates, and guidelines because it will save you time, energy and metal bandwidth.
A picture has so much to teach.
A picture has so much to teach.
It might have too much for one lesson.
And it can elicit different things at different times depending on what we know.
The Gingerbread Man.
Most children see a delicious looking candy that they want to eat. (or curious about the taste)
Children try and catch the cookie. They usually fail because the Gingerbread Man is too fast.
Hansel and Gretel followed the Gingerbread Man to a candy house somewhere in the forest.
Who lives in the candy house? A kind old lady??
How can I teach the children about this?
Level 1 -
Introduce the Gingerbread Man as a character. (Course book - At School)
Introduce the Gingerbread Man as a story. (Course book - The gingerbread Man)
Tell mini stories that puts the Gingerbread Man into the forest. (Course book - The Hungry Monster)
Level 2 - One Year Later
Introduce Hansel and Gretel to the children. (Course book - At School Level 2)
Introduce Hansel and Gretel’s story to the children. (Course book - Hansel and Gretel)
Leave breadcrumbs for children to make connections between the Gingerbread Man, the old lady and Hansel and Gretel.
Earlier in the course someone mentioned the term ‘Andragogy’ for adult learners.
I thought it also reflects on how children learn too.
https://totalsdi.com/blog/a-relationship-culture-sustaining-behavior-change/
Uncover
slowly unveil breadcrumbs that lead child to different ideas.
Encourage self-direction
Provide the space and opportunity for children to nature their ideas through puppets and stories.
Draw from Experience
Reference materials learned. Elicit things that are taught about strangers using candy to lure kids away from parents.
Make it real
Connect to students daily life: at the park, on a bike trail, etc…
Solve Problems
Provide seed solutions, give dialogue to role-play in the situations, etc.
Tap into motivation
Use language language, situations and ideas that children accept and want nurture (play with) in. their own minds.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=130mWQMtvkUckuMX211RCeAIjmhHztqa-
https://drive.google.com/open?id=130mWQMtvkUckuMX211RCeAIjmhHztqa-
It might have too much for one lesson.
And it can elicit different things at different times depending on what we know.
The Gingerbread Man.
Most children see a delicious looking candy that they want to eat. (or curious about the taste)
Children try and catch the cookie. They usually fail because the Gingerbread Man is too fast.
Hansel and Gretel followed the Gingerbread Man to a candy house somewhere in the forest.
Who lives in the candy house? A kind old lady??
How can I teach the children about this?
Level 1 -
Introduce the Gingerbread Man as a character. (Course book - At School)
Introduce the Gingerbread Man as a story. (Course book - The gingerbread Man)
Tell mini stories that puts the Gingerbread Man into the forest. (Course book - The Hungry Monster)
Level 2 - One Year Later
Introduce Hansel and Gretel to the children. (Course book - At School Level 2)
Introduce Hansel and Gretel’s story to the children. (Course book - Hansel and Gretel)
Leave breadcrumbs for children to make connections between the Gingerbread Man, the old lady and Hansel and Gretel.
Earlier in the course someone mentioned the term ‘Andragogy’ for adult learners.
I thought it also reflects on how children learn too.
https://totalsdi.com/blog/a-relationship-culture-sustaining-behavior-change/
Uncover
slowly unveil breadcrumbs that lead child to different ideas.
Encourage self-direction
Provide the space and opportunity for children to nature their ideas through puppets and stories.
Draw from Experience
Reference materials learned. Elicit things that are taught about strangers using candy to lure kids away from parents.
Make it real
Connect to students daily life: at the park, on a bike trail, etc…
Solve Problems
Provide seed solutions, give dialogue to role-play in the situations, etc.
Tap into motivation
Use language language, situations and ideas that children accept and want nurture (play with) in. their own minds.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=130mWQMtvkUckuMX211RCeAIjmhHztqa-
https://drive.google.com/open?id=130mWQMtvkUckuMX211RCeAIjmhHztqa-
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