E V O L V E S C H O O L: TeachingEnglish newsletter 18 March 2020

TeachingEnglish newsletter

18 March 2020

Welcome to the latest edition of the TeachingEnglish newsletter!

The British Council is committed to supporting the use of technology for the continuation of education in a crisis, so this week we bring you news of a series of webinars related to teaching online. We also include a blog post on using digital tools to promote learning outside the classroom.

We also have three lesson plans that could be adapted and used via online teaching, and a publication of case studies on the theme of special needs.

We hope you find these resources useful.

The TeachingEnglish team

Teaching online – using your coursebook and ideas for breakout rooms

The British Council is committed to supporting the use of technology for the continuation of education in a crisis. This is the first in a series of three webinars which offers guidance in key areas. This webinar focuses on ways of using your coursebook with online classes and ideas for using breakout rooms. Each presentation will last for approximately 20 minutes, followed by an extended Q&A clinic. Join us on 20 March 2020 at 15.00 UK time.

Family and friends

In this primary lesson, children practise language for family and friends, with online games, a song and a story. They speak in pairs, make posters and write about their family or friends. Why not extend the lesson to focus on the children's mothers to mark Mothering Sunday on 22 March? Read more.

YouTubing on the road

This lesson plan for teenagers at CEF level B1 and above looks at the theme of vlogging and travel. In this integrated skills lesson, students will have the chance to watch an interview with Trent and Allie, two successful YouTubers who have been travelling through Latin America in a camper van for two years. The two film their travel experiences and post their vlogs on YouTube. They make enough money to live from this. Read more.

Creating an inclusive learning experience for English language learners with specific needs

This collection of case studies aims to share some experiences in promoting positive attitudes and thinking around specific needs. It also aims to describe teaching and classroom management strategies to create an inclusive learning environment and positive experience for English language learners with specific needs. Read more.

Using digital tools to help promote learning outside the classroom

The question of whether Skype, Zoom and other platforms are equal to or at least as good as real live face-to-face sessions is fast becoming purely academic. Many teachers now use distance learning on a daily basis. Read this blog post for lots of ideas on how you can maintain contact with learners and promote learning outside the classroom. Read more.

The life cycle of a flowering plant

In this primary lesson, learners watch a short video about the life cycle of a flowering plant and complete an accompanying worksheet. They label a diagram, then draw and colour their own flower to complete the worksheet. After watching the video and completing the worksheet, extend the topic using activities from the LearnEnglish Kids website. Read more.