Tag Archives: adult ed

Speaking More English Outside of Class: Meetup.com

Alexandra Lowe
Alexandra Lowe

If you teach English in an English-speaking country, how often have you asked your students to tell you who they practice their English with, only to discover that many of your students have virtually no English-speaking friends, and typically largely … Continue reading

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A Call for Rigor in Adult Ed

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

Last Saturday I took part in a welcome new addition to the conference circuit: Meeting Challenges, Exploring Solutions in the Adult ESL Classroom, presented by The New School and the Literacy Assistance Center. Set amid East Village foliage, catered with … Continue reading

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Sky-High Attendance in 6 Quick Steps

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

Study after study has proven what we teachers know instinctively: Empty chairs can’t learn English. Early findings suggest something to do with neuroplasticity. I kid, but really, before we can even begin to talk about methodology or outcomes or any … Continue reading

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Guest Speakers in Adult English Classes: The How

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

Last time we covered the why and the who of guest speakers in adult ed classes. We touched on some of the benefits of inviting guest speakers to your adult ESOL classes, which include authentic listening practice, valuable information about … Continue reading

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Guest Speakers in Adult Ed

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

Guest speakers can make a powerful, lasting impression on students. They share their wisdom and experience, lead by example, and give students a clear, realistic picture of success. I mean, who could forget that time Mr. T came to motivationally … Continue reading

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Controversy in Adult Conversation

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

A lot of teachers I’ve spoken with completely avoid contentious topics in their classroom. Of course, the intentions are good: to create an inclusive, congenial atmosphere. And in a world where the language of trigger warnings and safe spaces is … Continue reading

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Reading Texts for Adult ELLs

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

When it comes time to find a text for your next adult reading lesson, it can seem that everything you pick up is either Finnegan’s Wake or Charlotte’s Web, with none of the in-between that your students need. We need … Continue reading

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Lowering Affective Filter to Teach Adults Pronunciation

Robert Sheppard
Rob Sheppard

Rob Sheppard, director of adult education at Quincy Asian Resources, member of the community advisory council at First Literacy, and curriculum consultant at Boston Global Institute, has joined the TESOL Blog. Rob will be blogging biweekly on adult education. ___________________ Twice a … Continue reading

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