A collection of information, ideas and inspiration for ELT teachers
Author: Clare
OK, I'll admit it. I'm a bit confused. I think my classroom practice and teaching materials reflect a Communicative Approach to language teaching. Prompted by some debates on Twitter, though, I've been trying to read up on TBLT and picture exactly what it would look like in the classroom, how TBLT-type lessons and courses would … Continue reading Reflections on my lesson: Is this TBLT?
I've recently read (am a bit slow) this post https://eltplanning.com/2018/08/03/materials-writer-elt/ and one point really stood out to me - about how being interested in lots of things is helpful for materials writers. And as I'm just going through the proof stage of a book I've co-written, it made me reflect on the interesting things I've … Continue reading Fun things I’ve learnt from writing one ELT coursebook
In the EAP context I work in, we've recently had a drive to push engagement with authentic English-language input, within the classroom and as self-study. In general, as self-study I encourage my students to do whatever they enjoy doing – but do it in English! One of things a lot of students choose to do … Continue reading 10+ Things to do with a podcast in ELT
How would you say these example sentences? a. I think that's the right answer, but I'm not sure. b. I think that's the right answer, no matter what you say! I'm guessing that "I" and "think" sounded different when you said these two sentences to yourself - and it is this difference that is interesting … Continue reading Perceiving Prominence – Part #1 (the “What?”)
I'm not convinced that avoiding PARSNIP topics at all costs makes for engaging materials. As I see it, it should be a case of considering HOW and from which angle, not just WHAT topic is covered. It's more important how you serve the parsnips!
Finally it is the last week of our semester here, which started in October. It's been a long, hard slog, but we've made it! But the final week of term is a weird one. We still have classes, most of which are revision sessions or tests, and we have to make sure we get all … Continue reading Revision Week for my Materials
Alongside psychological issues, voice problems are a major cause of illness among teachers. I recently attending a workshop on how to look after your voice as a teacher (held by Frank Gutjahr at Universität Trier), and in the post I'd like to share the practical tips I heard. They'll probably be relevant for anyone who … Continue reading Looking after your voice
