Recent Posts
Vocabulary BINGO
Vocabulary BINGO is hands-down the favorite ESL activity in my beginner level ESL class. I get so many requests for BINGO you would think I’m running a geriatric facility.
I think one reason for my Vocabulary BINGO’S popularity is that everyone can do it, even a new student who has no or very limited English. Anyone can win. It puts everyone on a level playing field. It’s fun, engaging, easy to learn, and enhances vocabulary development. What more could one ask?
Setting Goals for the New Year
A hundred years ago, when I was a new and naive teacher, I had this great idea for an after New Year’s activity. I would have my students set goals! “What a great opportunity for my students to take ownership of their learning,” I thought. Eureka! Was I brilliant or what?
The Gift of the Magi for English Language Learners
My favorite story to teach in December is The Gift of the Magi. While I love the original story by O. Henry, the language is too dense for my high beginner to advanced level English Language Learners. So, naturally, I wrote a more accessible version.
I love the central idea of love and sacrifice in the story. My intent is to help my students understand the theme while learning new vocabulary and skills. When I ask my students at the end of the year what their favorite activity was, most invariably say The Gift of the Magi. I hope your students get as much enjoyment from this unit as mine have.
Teachers are Thankful for a Day Off
I always struggled with with what to teach for Thanksgiving. It’s such an American holiday. I want my students to learn the history behind the holiday, as well as the cultural significance. I searched far an wide for resources which would accomplish these learning goals. However, as you have probably already guessed, I couldn’t find anything. So, as usual, I decided to create my own.
$10 Teachers Pay Teachers Gift Card Giveaway
Enter for a chance to win a $10 Teachers Pay Teacher Gift Card.
Would you rather talk all period or have your students do the talking?
I’m always trying to invent new ways to get my students talking. Many English Language Learners are reluctant to speak because they have an accent or they think people will make fun of them. One of the ways to get my students more comfortable speaking is by having them engage in a fun activity with a small group.
Teachers Love Social Studies
One of the things teachers struggle with is teaching content to English Language Learners while at the same time teaching language. A common question from my colleagues is how do they support their ESL students. Teachers want to do the best they can for their students. I get it. This is why I created my Picture Dictionary in the Content Area - World History resources.
Back to School
At the end of the ESL About Me project, students at all levels of English feel successful … and I have a formative assessment of what my ESL students know and can do as well as some great bulletin board displays. Win! Win!
Hello ESL Newcomers!
Whether you’re an ESL or content teacher, the Newcomer Pack will be your go-to resource for your older elementary to high-school level beginner level English Language Learners. It is or me. I always have a packet handy for that middle of the year admit or the ESL student who needs extra support. It’s also great for a quick assessment, fast finishers, or bell-ringers. Your admin will be impressed with your amazing differentiation abilities!