Conversation skills matter.
English Language Learners, whether in adult school, high school, IEP, or college class, want to literally speak English and have deep, satisfying conversations - in English.
English language learners want to share experiences and insights on contemporary topics - and expand their practical and academic vocabulary. Quotations and proverbs, from differing points of view, also encourage discussions, model excellent communication, and develop critical thinking skills. Students hold longer discussions, learn about their classmates, and gain practical experience. Let's create better, deeper, and more enjoyable conversations - even in English!
All of these quality textbooks will help English language learners speak their mind – and their audiences understand their speech.
What a delight! This conversation book gets ESL students talking. Each chapter poses 25 or so questions and shares a dozen fun quotes. Lots of great conversations starters like "How do you win the game of life?" Superb resource for "multi-level" Intermediate and Advanced classes. An abundance of material that can be used both in and out of the classroom.
This practical guide for English teachers should find a large audience, especially in MA classes on ESL methodology. Combining personal insights, detailed interview with fellow ESL teachers, and a survey of recent research and an acute awareness that context matters, Keith Folse has written an outstanding primer for conversation teachers and tutors. His 20 short vignettes in Chapter 3 (What does a Conversation Class Look Like) are worth the coverprice alone. If you have already, or you plan to teach a conversation class, I strongly recommend this outstanding primer.
Are you sometimes misunderstood by your American co-workers or customers - even though you have lived in the United Staes for years? Do you sometimes mispronounce words causing needless confusion and sometimes stress? Do you give professional presentations and want the native English speaking audience to clearly understand your words and ideas? Have you been looking for an excellent self-study guide to improve your American English pronunciation?
American idioms can cause confusion and frustrate many English language learners. This thin, delightful collection 101 idioms uses humor, clear drawings, and witty captions to illustrate the real meanings of odd phrases. Many English teachers love the verbal and visual humor, and add it as a supplemental text for intermediate or advanced ESL students. The mocking tone, however, probably annoys the more prudish folks. Other adult educators might also feel that their precious class time is better spent on more practical life skills.
This excellent ESL textbook provides engaging model dialogs, explains practical American idioms - with solid definitions and examples, and includes a CD with clear articulation. The dialogs, illustrated with pen and ink cartoons, display a healthy sense of humor. Speak English Like an American is almost ideal for adult education students, international visitors seeking to improve their language skills, and young people considering studying in the United States.
