Over the past 200 years or so, English has grown to become the lingua franca (shared language) in a huge range of industries. The fields of media, engineering, medicine, shipping, air travel, international business and commerce all rely on English as the common language which can facilitate...
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30th April 2019By Tom Garside
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22nd April 2019By Laura Wilkes
Communicative language teachers often borrow drama techniques to facilitate study and production of language in their classes. A popular example of this is roleplay from improvisational theatre to get learners using functional phrases whilst in role to fulfill a communicative aim. For example,... -
16th April 2019By James Pengelley
The grammar juggernaut continues to roll on despite many of the criticisms of an overly grammar-oriented focus that we’ve discussed previously on this blog. In spite of our criticisms, one of the confusing things to make clear is that we don’t discourage teachers from teaching grammar entirely.... -
8th April 2019By Sean Martin
Any fan of Harry Potter will know that the alohomora spell opens a locked door and the expecto patronum charm provides protection. With a little know how and wizardry, the legal myths of Hong Kong can be unlocked and the unwary newcomer or even a seasoned resident protected from the ‘commodum... -
25th March 2019By Karin Xie
Teachers and teacher trainers, native speakers and non-native speakers alike, although having some of the best qualifications around, still have the odd stumble and doubt their language ability. Doubts can arise with vocabulary, grammar or pronunciation. I've noticed this happens more with non-... -
11th March 2019By Sean Martin
When I look back on the most common references to teacher talking time (TTT) in feedback forms and post lesson reflections, I see comments such as high TTT, my TTT was excessive, TTT unnecessarily high, TTT interupted learners thinking time, reduce my TTT. Do these sound familiar to you? How many... -
25th February 2019By Clare Voke
Have you considered living and teaching English in China? What things would you need to consider before you decide to pack up your life and move to the most populous country in the world? The first thing you need to decide is where you would like to live. China is a vast country and is as diverse... -
11th February 2019By Eve Conway
Most young learner teachers will have one of those classroom memories that haunts them. It could be a crying toddler who shouted continuously in want of a parent or another teacher non-stop for an hour. It might be the class of 12-13 year olds you thought were going to lock you in the cupboard if...