One of the tasks assigned to students in the "Transitions into the Classroom" course in the TESOL program, is to have students observe an ESL class in an academic institution. I had the pleasure of being apart of an academic English class run by the University of Toronto through their English Language Program, continuing studies department. I had the opportunity to sit in with international students who are at the highest level of academic English. I loved: -The small class sizes which made it easier to initiate group work and pair work throughout the class. - The materials, topics, and strategies, presented and discussed to students was meaningful and relevant to student interests. I was surprised that: - The interactions between students and instructors were positive and the vibe from both instructor and students was close-knit. I learned that: - Using techniques such as paraphrasing and using synonyms to clarify concepts and words to students is a great way to help students grasp the information being taught. - Using different tools to present information to students also keeps them engaged in learning (Youtube videos, power point, news paper articles that are relevant to student interests). Verdict : - I really enjoyed being able to take part in the class and observe the instructor. However, as a new teacher I don't think I am ready to work in the academic setting. I feel that with more experience in the field I can potentially see myself working in this area of ESL. For more information on this program, visit : https://learn.utoronto.ca/english-language-program
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As I mentioned in the previous post, I reached out to a local organization that offers LINC programs to immigrants and refugees within my community. Today I had the pleasure of observing and working with ESL students in a
CLB 1/2 class. I loved: -The the eagerness of all the students who came to class and were ready to learn - Tips on how to evaluate students during assessment (e.g: use positive wording in the assessment instead of pass/fail ) I was surprised that: - The instructor gave me the opportunity to work with students in the class (which I also loved !) , since I was very nervous to work one-on-one with the students and the majority of my teaching experience was with children. - I was also surprised that the students were open to me helping them with their work in class ! - I noticed that many of the skills that I use as an early childhood educator to help my students, also worked when I was assisting students today. For example, to describe the difference between singular and plural nouns I drew pictures. I look forward too: - Learning and observing the different teaching methods that are used in different CLB level classes What are modal verbs ? - Modal verbs are used to express ability, possibility, permission, advice, and obligation. Examples of modal verbs are :
Get students to work independently, in pairs, or small groups to practice using modal verbs in speech and writing . Objective (depending on the audience):
Review modal verbs covered in class and increase student confidence in speaking, reading, and listening. This game can be altered to meet the needs of students by:
As part of the TESOL program at the University of Toronto, students are required to complete a practicum, observation in an academic institution, and volunteer in an ESL program. Students need at least 30 hours of observation, and a minimum of 20 hours of supervised practice teaching. These hours are then counted towards our professional accreditation (OCELT- Ontario Certified English Language Teacher). I reached out to a local organization that offers LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) programs to immigrants and refugees within my community. Due to confidentiality reasons, I am unable to disclose the name of the organization. I loved: -The program works with other programs (within the organization) to assist newcomers with their transition to Canada. For instance, language teachers refer students to employment services to help them with resumes and job searches. I was surprised to see: - A child care centre for students who have young children - Close knit community of students and teachers I look forward too: - Assisting in all the classrooms and getting a feel for the different levels of English language learning - Meeting and working with staff and students for the next few months https://www.teslontario.org/accreditation/languageinstructor Today I attended my first TESOL related teaching conference – T4T (technology for teachers) held by TESL Toronto. This “mini conference” gives English teachers the opportunity to meet other professionals in the field, and explore how technology can be implemented into practice. There were different workshops offered throughout the day. I attended PBLA and TechKnow: Using online resources for skill building exercises. This workshop discussed how teachers can use learning games, such as Kahoot and Jeopardy, in the ESL context. I was intrigued to attend since I use Kahoot as a learning tool with children in a play-based learning program.
As part of the teaching requirements for my early childhood practice, educators are required to utilize technology as part of the curriculum based on children's interests to enhance learning. When we look at the ESL classroom, technology can also be a valuable tool in enhancing the learning of adults as well. Take away from the workshop?
At first it was nerve-racking meeting and mingling with professionals who had been in the field for years. Once we started talking, they had great advice and spoke about opportunities after graduation. I also bumped into some of my current and previous classmates which was a treat! I would definitely recommend professionals in the field and current students studying TESOL to attend this event. |
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