Recent Posts - page 44
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Comparatives and superlatives – Top Trumps
This is a classic. I find Top Trumps are a fun way to practise comparatives (mainly) and superlatives with young learners. Here’s something I did recently… The topic was ‘Wild World’, but talk of animals like polar bears feels a… Read More ›
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30 tips for developing teachers
Some teachers have clear direction when it comes to development. Others, like me, have always been a little bit lost. I found that once I finished my initial teacher training there wasn’t much support or guidance when it came to… Read More ›
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Interactive whiteboards – some pros and cons
At my current school we have interactive whiteboards (IWBs) in every classroom. These are a luxury, but I do think they have their drawbacks. In ‘400 Ideas for Interactive Whiteboards’, Sharma et al (2011:10-11) list these benefits of using an… Read More ›
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Using story cubes
I bought these story cubes a few months ago, and I’ve tried them out a few times this term. They are basically dice with pictures on them, so it’s really up to you how you use them. You can find… Read More ›
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Distance learning for teachers – is it right for you?
It’s a pleasure to introduce this guest post from Phil Wade. He shares some useful advice for teachers thinking of undertaking distance study. I did my first TEFL course with i-to-i about 18 years ago and as a follow-up, I… Read More ›
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Some thoughts on authentic listening materials
I’ve been a materials writer for 2 months now. It’s about time I started reflecting on it. I haven’t had time to do so as it’s a very busy role – hence the lack of blog activity. I’m currently writing… Read More ›
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Reflection on CELTA and Trinity TESOL Courses
In her latest guest post, Nicky Salmon talks about the importance of reflecting on your teaching practice. A very important part of any pre- or in-service teacher training course, is REFLECTION. On a CELTA or Trinity TESOL course this will… Read More ›
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How to write CELTA lesson plans
In her latest guest post, Nicky Salmon talks about how to write effective lesson plans on the CELTA/Trinity TESOL course. What is a lesson plan? On a CELTA/Trinity TESOL course a plan is made up of: 1.The procedure. This is… Read More ›
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How to survive a CELTA course
In her second guest post, Nicky Salmon offers some useful tips for surviving an intensive 4-week CELTA training course. The title might sound a bit dramatic, but a typical course is very intensive, especially if you have chosen the 4-week option…. Read More ›
Featured Categories
materials writing ›
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Materials writing conversations #20: The title
September 7, 2025
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Materials writing conversations #19: vague briefs
October 31, 2024
DipTESOL tips ›
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DipTESOL Independent Research Project
August 10, 2021
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Reflections on the DipTESOL
June 29, 2021
teacher development ›
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Interview task: create a lesson for a Year 10 IGCSE ESL class
February 15, 2026
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AI experiments: IGCSE ESL speaking assessment bank
February 8, 2026
