Abstract This paper discusses four aspects of a professional portoflio addressing language artsteaching: promoting interest in a book, a double-entry journal, evaluation of student writing, and selecting professional resources. The paper also refers to a proposed five-year plan towards professional development so that language arts become more familiar and includes questions the author believes are important regarding future teaching practice, particularly in the preparation of classes.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Four Aspects of a Professional Portfolio
Module I - Promoting Interest in a Book
Module II - A Double-Entry Journal
Module III - Evaluation of Student Writing
Module IV - Selecting Professional Resources
Three Big Ideas for the Future
I - Assessing Students
II - Promoting Listening Skills
III - Writing Strategies
Five-Year Development Plan
Questions to Ask Myself
From the Paper "The student should feel that he or she can err on the side of English using words of one syllable, as long as the meaning is cogent, as opposed to feeling that he or she must use the latest phrase or terminology learned. There needs to be reinforcement, too, of the world as often without 'Spell check' and towards appreciation for what a person knows how to write by hand, spotting errors in time, or what might be expressed differently to better effect. Students learn that there is more to writing than word processing, in effect, as it is an intensely creative activity."
Abstract This paper is a discussion of teaching English as a second language at the community college level. Specifically, the process and style of adult learning is discussed and then related back to the specific challenges of teachingESL to adult learners of diverse cultural backgrounds.
Abstract This paper examines the evidence supporting the use of arts to teach English language learners (ELL). It discusses the use of arts as a creative and effective way to reach all students in the mainstream classes, but especially English language Learners. The paper begins by explaining the art-based style of language learning. It then develops a proposal for the study of this learning style.
Table of Contents:
Goal and Purpose
Review of Literature
Impetus
Procedure
Data Analysis
From the Paper "As a response to Gardener's theories of multiple intelligence many educators now believe through observation and research that the arts are an avenue that can precipitate learning in a diverse enough way to reach all types of learning styles and students coming from diverse backgrounds, with diverse intelligences. With the growing diversity in the California schools and the stress to create inclusive or mainstreamed classrooms the need to address this issue will become increasingly important, and answering that question with a multifaceted arts driven curriculum may enhance the skills of all learners."
Abstract This paper discusses methods and approaches to teaching English as a second language (ESL). It looks at the definitions of behaviorism, discusses the fundamental concepts underlying behaviorism and discusses how they are beneficial in teachingESL. The paper then looks at other approaches to teachingESL and some of the theories of second language acquisition.
From the Paper "There are barriers to ESL learning, which can include motivation (or lack of it), self-confidence, anxiety or peer pressure, to name but a few.
"Krashen (1981) still believes that there is a value to a classroom environment, rather than an immersion environment when learning a second language. He feels that in cases where a student tries to learn from immersion alone, that there will be times when the input received (by listening to others) will be overwhelming and therefore incomprehensible. However, by using a mixture of classroom and immersion methods, the student is better able to make sense of the input received in the short term, classroom situation. Accordingly, the lessons learned in the classroom will then provide the framework for learning through immersion in a more casual situation outside of the classroom."
Abstract This paper discusses the teaching of phonics to ESL learners. According to this paper, it's imperative that classes in pronunciation are complemented with lessons in phonics. The method used to teach a small child how to speak, is the same method that should be implemented with ESL learners.
From the Paper "Why a phonics lesson should follow a pronunciation lesson when teaching ESL English The pronunciation lesson teaches the learner how to say the word. This basic ability is a prerequisite for learning the associated phonics. The ability to speak must come first, followed by the ability to recognize or write the associated phoneme/s down. In the same way, we do not teach children to write prior to their learning to speak. Why the teaching of phonics is especially important when working with ESL learners Written English has a high level of complexity, with many different ways to render the same phoneme, many rules pertaining to the rendering of phonemes, and many exceptions to the rules."
Abstract This paper reviews and discusses the importance of teaching methods used in theclassroom. The paper focuses on teaching English as a foreign language (EFL)and English as a second language (ESL) students. The paper reviews various listening skills that can be taught to language students to assist them in learning. The paper further discusses the issue of fluency between the teacher and student. The paper also takes a look at the problems relating to academic oral learning in the ESL classroom.
From the Paper " Other methods of improving student(s) listening skills include tests/quizzes that teachers can use in the classroom. These tests/quizzes can be found in a wide variety of places, especially with the advent of the internet. Many experts (presumably) have created websites that allow for lesson planning by teachers of ESL students that include both written and online quizzes which test for comprehension and improvement by the ESL students. Examples of the types of quizzes available include listening to a customer making a request and taking note of what is wanted, or listening to two people talking about a new job opportunity and get the details about the job offered and even listening to a woman asking a man questions for a survey while taking notes of his answers. These quizzes take into account the daily activities of the individuals 'normally' looking to acquire a second language. Other quizzes test on the listener's ability to recite about a man's trip to a foreign country that he has just returned from, choosing the correct conclusion based on what is heard and a listening guide that gives examples of symbol sounds by using representative words.
There are other methods of teaching ESL students in the classroom with one of the more interesting ways being a use of music to enhance the students learning process."
This paper discuses the experiences of an English Second Language (ESL/EFL) Japanese student as a base for examining language learning strategies, specially the relationships between language, culture and society.
Abstract This paper explains that, because students come with specific purposes for learning, one of the best ways to keep them motivated is to help them feel progress towards their goals, which are identified by interviewing informally the student. The author points out the importance of engaging ESL learners in communicative (game type) or integrative (short/small activities form larger activities) activities using materials, which are authentic, thereby, aiding the learners in unpredictable spoken language outside the class. The paper relates that students of English conversation must understand the fundamental difference between learning about the language and learning to use it for verbal communication.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Background Information of Interviewee
Report and Commentary on the Information Collected in the Conversation
What are Main Reasons for Learning English for ESL/EFL Learners in Japan?
What Stereotypes Take Place for a Foreign Teacher While TeachingESL in Japan?
What are Key Features and Problems of ESL Learning in Japan and How can They Be Resolved by ESL Teachers to Achieve Best Results?
What Type of Class is more Desirable for ESL Students?
Does "Cultural Background" Play Any Role in Learning ESL in Japan?
Conclusion
From the Paper "The learner that I have interviewed generally has a strong first language model back at home in Japan. The interviewee had been in institution and educated at home from young till diploma level. Later, when he came to Australia with pursuing a degree in mind, he had a choice to either take an exam, TOFEL or take up a course with the duration of 3 months to learn English. This is because, his previous education did not meet the requirement of the university that he intended to enroll in. The requirement was that his previous education has to be taught in English for duration of more than 12 months."
Abstract This paper looks at how there are many strategies that can be used within the ESL classroom that will assist both ESL adults and children in their goals of effectively maneuvering through their new English-speaking world. It examines how adult ESL learners are especially helped by conversation and communication styles, as the subtleties of the impact that culture has upon language may be one of the hardest lessons they have to learn.
From the Paper "There are many strategies and or styles for the integration of communication into the ESL classroom, several of which are outlined by Peyton and Crandall in Philosophies and Approaches in Adult ESL Literacy Instruction. Within this work Peyton and Crandall briefly review each of the five major ESL approaches: Freirean or participatory education, whole language, language experience approach, learner writing and publishing, and competency-based education. Within all five of these proven successful approaches the reader can see the import and impact of interpersonal communication on the learner."
Abstract This paper studies how Canada currently teaches English to non-native English speakers. The paper criticizes the system for focusing too much on exams such as the TOEFL, while failing to truly teach students how to function in an English-speaking environment. Then the paper presents a research-based review of new teaching models, including the Cummins model.
From the Paper "There are various subjective factors that can influence the acquisition of a second language, such as age, the environment, and the learners' self-esteem. Also, objective factors like the teaching model and assessment approach adopted by different teachers can influence the persons' English skills. The huge ESL group includes students who are taking the courses for higher education; adult professionals who want to master fluent English in order to find jobs in their chosen field; and some others with various interests. Therefore, ESL curriculum should be designed separately to meet the needs of different groups so that they are able to learn more effectively. However, as far as I am concerned, the existing ESL teaching models are not clearly classified despite the constantly developments. The so-called ESL problems are still the obstacles resulting low grades in students' academic studies or downward shift in adults' positions."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses what link, if any, exists between student learning anxiety and native versus non-native teachers in the EFL / ESL classroom environment. The study identifies key issues surrounding this question in an attempt to identify what factors contribute to Taiwanese students' increases in language learning anxiety. Further, it investigates these issues with the intention of fleshing out valuable knowledge for future research and educational advancement. The writer concludes that this comparison of language learning anxiety between students of native and non-native ESL teachers in Taiwan intends to seek out what problems exist in the current system. The writer points out that by identifying and examining such problems, administrators can make educated decisions in the recruiting of foreign or native teachers to their ESL / EFL programs.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Definition of Terms
Limitations of the Study
Summary
References
From the Paper "Taiwan is experiencing an increase in English learners. As a result, a higher number of English language teachers are necessary. To meet this need, many foreign teachers specializing in ESL / EFL have flocked to Taiwan to teach classrooms full of English learners. For a variety of reasons, most of these English learners experience an Americanized version of English language training. Lou and Chism relay this Americanized English learning with the inability of young Taiwanese students to make associations between their own culture and experiences and English. This Americanized learning is in part due to the use of American written and published EFL textbooks. Yet, in classrooms where English is taught by a foreign ESL / EFL teacher, it is difficult to know whether the textbooks or the foreign teachers create difficulty in establishing successful language connections."
Abstract The paper relates that schools are not only seeing an increase in ESL students, they are also seeing how the transient lifestyle of migrant students impact their motivation and drive to succeed in school. The paper explains that the need for ideas and tools that will motivate students to try is necessary not only so they will continue learning, but also for the purpose of meeting state mandates. The paper provides a plan that addresses those needs. The lesson plan works at all grade levels and all levels of English to create an atmosphere of partnership and team work that will be valuable as the students progress in grade levels and ultimately out into the adult world.
Outline:
Introduction
Facts
How It Works
Conclusion
From the Paper "For students to move from one grade level to the next they must master certain state mandated curriculum standards whether or not they speak fluent English. For the schools to begin handing out lessons and books in second languages would not only defeat the purpose of immersion programs in English but would also fail to prepare the students for state testing practices which are provided in English. In addition it would fail to prepare them for the next school which may have entirely different lesson plans. The most effective way to motivate ESL students and help them meet state mandates will be to build lesson plans around the goal of teaching them better reading skills(Anderson-Inman, 2001). Reading skills impact every subject being taught in today's elementary school environment. Whether it is science, history, math or art the ability to read fluently and understand what they have read will help to motivate students who do not have English as their first language by utilizing a partner system called paired reading."
Tags: paired, reading, testing, curriculum, standard
Abstract This paper owes to different formal and individual explorations of language arts approaches and methods including work towards a language arts portfolio, an exercise helping to recognize the vast range of materials available to Canadian teachers, at large, in relation to their adopted philosophies of teaching. The writer maintains that a guiding study that has promoted much thought on the overall goals of language arts instruction has been Think Literacy Success, a Government of Ontario report on approaches to promoting literacy at the Grades 7 to 12 levels which emphasizes gaps in abilities and opportunities, student groups especially at risk, and the overall role of language arts in seeing that students are prepared to communicate well in society. The writer notes that it seems important to think through the environment in which one will teach with central Canada offering unique challenges of diversity less pronounced in regions beyond the main cities. In the same spirit, The writer discusses that teachers serving isolated impoverished or otherwise limited communities of less heterogeneity need to find approaches to an overall ideal of instilling interest and skill.
Outline:
Introduction
Portfolio Tasks
Reflection on Professional Development
Mechanics of Portfolio and Teaching Development
Bottom Up Model of Reading
Professional Development Goals
Future Activities
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper "Various course and seminar offerings now exist that are geared to language arts teachers. In addition, there is an ever-growing literature of research on the subjects of literacy, factors impeding literacy and language development, curriculum design and teaching pedagogy. However, one needs to aim to for practical experience which should be diverse. For example, attending classes for second language learners in a Board of Education setting is different from tutoring adult learners in basic literacy having been involved in the criminal justice system. When watching very experienced language arts teachers at work one sees the results of perhaps many years given to students of different kinds, in perhaps several school systems, and more than one country. Teachers can appreciate to varying degrees what colleagues educated elsewhere can impart, especially those having served abroad and perhaps in educational systems requiring English-medium instruction for students of diverse first languages. Education does seem a profession in which the teacher is forever meeting individuals from whom learning is possible. The same can be said of students, and what is suddenly discovered in some in terms of a hidden ability, another language spoken, or the ability to illustrate written work."
Abstract This paper shows how art is an important part of education that is dying in many public schools. The writer examines how budget cuts often shift priorities to basic subjects leaving children without a formal art education. The paper states that art is a valuable tool that teaches children to communicate and also augments the learning process in subjects such as mathematics and language. Many studies have found that when children are exposed to art, it has valuable effects on their learning process.
From the Paper "When implemented in public schools, art helps raise self-confidence while creating problem solving skills and communication. Unlike math and reading, when children create art they are always successful because there is no right or wrong in art. This gives a child a sense of achievement and success, raising their academic self-confidence. Art also helps children figure out how they want to express themselves, thus building problem-solving skills. Art focuses on making your internal thoughts external images or sounds creating a superior way for children to learn to communicate effectively. When you take all of these factors and apply them to a child's education the result is obvious. Studies show that the cognitive skills and spatial reasoning that art offers are essential for math. The communication of art often helps children become more successful in language classes. When a student becomes involved in an art program, the drop out rate dramatically decreases. Art is an exciting and fun way for students to feel more successful in school."
Abstract This paper discusses the use of art to address the unique developmental issues facing students with special needs. The author describes the positive tactile and multi-sensory experiences that art projects give children. Practical guidelines for implementing these projects are presented for teachers. The paper gives the caveat that teachers must be aware of the students' physical limitations when developing an art project. The paper concludes with suggestions for group projects.
From the Paper "When adapting art projects to suit the needs of such children it is important to realistically assess the class' varying levels of comprehension and attention spans, which may be more diverse than a traditional class. When presenting new materials it is important to show the materials to the students, verbally describe the materials that will be used over the course of the project, and how to use the materials. A brief introduction is necessary before embarking upon the project to minimize the potential student frustration that might be aroused by having to deploy novel and unfamiliar items. For children with developmental issues of combined cognitive and physical nature, encouraging the children to manipulate items during the explanation, either by the teacher's own hands, or the use of an aide, can overcome barriers of resistance or a lack of comprehension."
Abstract This paper looks at the book "The Art of Possibility" by authors Rosamund and Benjamin Zander. The book's focus on strategies for successfully coping with life's conflicts and changes. The authors' emphasis on teaching readers to transform their perceptions of their worlds.
From the Paper "Rosamund a leadership and relationship therapist and Benjamin, the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra wrote The Art of Possibility at the suggestion of the Harvard Business School Press. Zander and ..."
Tags: The Art of Possibility, Rosamund Stone Zander, Benjamin Zander
