Suggests that from a pedagogical perspective, there is a cost to associating grammar with rules. Discusses reasons for underlying rules and gives implications for a reason-based approach to teaching grammar. (Author/VWL)

Highlights Kagan Structures, easy-to-learn, easy-to-use cooperative learning instructional strategies that promote second language learning. In classrooms where these strategies are used, students for whom English is a second language learn both English and academic content far more quickly and thoroughly than when traditional strategies are used.…

Discusses how to help English-as-a-Second-Language learners develop effective listening skills. Suggests a process for helping ESL learners develop their listening skills and makes suggestions for how this might be achieved with authentic materials. (VWL)

Discusses the importance of focusing on developing listening in English-as-a-Second-Language instruction and offers four suggestions for developing listening skills: have students listen to authentic recorded materials and then do simple tasks, have students take notes, make sure attention is focused during listening, and allow students to just…

This article discusses teaching English to Swiss nationals, generally advanced language learners. The needs of Swiss students studying English are quite different from those of other students with other language backgrounds. Suggests a subject matter approach that taps into students' interests; using theater, television, and film; and using…

Focuses on integrated skill instruction in the English-as-Second/Foreign-Language classroom. Specific sections address the following: the idea of language-as-skills; segregated-skill instruction; forms of integrated-skill instruction (content-based, and task-based); advantages of the integrated-skill approach; and integrating the language skills.…

Suggests that one way to provide cultural contexts for language learning is by using feature films for instructional purposes. Highlights the benefits of feature films, discusses the selection of films, and describes a process for using feature films in the language classroom. (Author/VWL)

Describes one teacher's success with using "Harry Potter" in a program to teach elementary school English language learners. Provides comprehension strategies incorporated to help learners understand the story. Highlights the importance of creating a classroom environment with a low level of anxiety, the implications of the program, and the value…

Examines the task of teaching writing in a second language. Examines the skills specific to writing beyond vocabulary and language structure, including transcribing using the language of writing, and composing. Looks at writing in relation to other skills, approaches to teaching writing, and successful writing instruction. (Author/VWL)

Discusses how to maximize classroom participation in the English-as-a-Second-or-Foreign-Language classroom, and provides a classroom discussion method that is based on real-life problem solving. (Author/VWL)

Discusses what to look for in identifying language disorders in culturally and linguistically diverse exceptional students (CLiDES). Describes Roseberry-McKibbon's Dynamic Dozen, highly successful teaching and learning strategies for working with CLiDE students. (Author/VWL)

Suggests that a good strategy for helping English language learners to develop communicative competence in English is by pairing them with native English speakers. In such conversation programs, conversation partners should be provided with topics and activities that incorporate the goals, interests, and experiences of the learners. Recommends…

Discusses the situation of Hmong refugees who entered the United States 25 tears ago and new generations of Hmong living in the United States. The focus is on culture and learning styles, language and identity crises bridging the academic gap, instructional strategies, and tradition and progress. (Author/VWL)

Discusses distance learning with a focus on online learning, which is growing in popularity at a faster rate than other types of programs. Looks at the advantages and disadvantages of online learning, the future of online learning, and specifically TESOL training online. (Author/VWL)

Describes the Yazigi language center in Bradenton, Florida, and its role in teaching English-as-a-Second-Language to Brazilian students. At Yazigi, the communicative approach has proved very successful. Learning is further enhanced by students of different linguistic backgrounds studying together and compelling each other to communicate in the…