We’ve introduced the Bell Assessment Framework to monitor the progress of our EAL learners. Here are some early reflections on the framework and tracking tool, including some challenges arising from its implementation. Why Bell? Adri Szlapak and I are working… Read More ›
Informal drop-in observations are the way forward. Well, they’re the norm in many places. But where they’re not, they should be. Why invest all that time in recruitment, have teachers go through round after round of interview, sometimes do demo… Read More ›
My year as a freelance writer is over. I’m really looking forward to a return to the classroom next month. Here’s what I’ve been up to since last August, and a bit about what’s happening next. Freelancing I finished my… Read More ›
In my last post about intensive English programmes at international schools, I highlighted the importance of integrated (rather than segregated) provision. Think of the social/academic language the learners would develop from being immersed in the mainstream environment. The rich input… Read More ›
Some half-thoughts on Intensive English Programmes at international schools. Feel free to comment and share your experiences. Intensive English Programmes have become a big thing at international schools in my region. As part of my recent job hunt, I researched… Read More ›
Author: Ben Goldstein Date: 2021 Goldstein begins with a quote from Scott Thornbury, who draws attention to LGBT invisibility in published language resources: Where are the coursebook gays and lesbians? They are nowhere to be found. They are still firmly… Read More ›
I had the pleasure of attending a conference on Integrated Learning and Assessment last week in Hue (Vietnam), hosted by Cambridge Assessment. Here’s a bit about the conference, and some take home points. Why was I there? I’ve been working… Read More ›
I’ve stepped out of the classroom for a year to do more writing. While this is only a temporary thing for me, it’s still pretty daunting – ditching the steady income and taking a leap of faith! Aaargh! I’m only… Read More ›
There’s plenty of content from my initial TEFL training (2006 – wow) that is still relevant to my everyday practice as an EAL teacher. Here’s one example. If you have undertaken initial teacher training in EFL (such as a CELTA… Read More ›
Last term, I was asked to plan some in-service training for teachers on strategies to support our Secondary EAL learners. This was highlighted as an area for development across the secondary school, based on observations, self-reflections, informal chats, and so… Read More ›
ELT Planning 