Teaching Creative Writing

Often students see creative writing as a vehicle for expression rather than as an opportunity for teaching and learning So how does a teacher achieve the latter while encouraging the former and avoiding conflict? And what is "creative writing" anyway"? Does it really mean anything goes?

Moving your school

So your school has outgrown its facilities and you must move down the road to a new site. Perhaps the city has condemned your current location. Or your landlord has so hiked the rent you have no choice. Moving your school need not be a nightmare and  with thought, planning and attention to detail can be quite painless.

Working in an (International) School in the USA

Many international teachers want to work in the USA, and doing so can be both rewarding and a great adventure. However, it can also be a great challenge with all the different programs, types of school, jurisdictions, and expectations. The greatest challenges of all can be related to "employment authorization" or the visa. While I am not an immigration attorney, I have employed dozens of international interns and teachers, both locally and internationally hired. As a "Green Card" older myself, I have jumped through many of the hoops of living and working in the US.

Teaching IB Commentary - Language

IB a written comparative commentary where one or often both passages are non-literary. While the passage sources will be different, commentary and comparative commentary skills are easily learnt. A simple method and accompanying checklist will prove invaluable to teacher and student alike.

Teacher Observations

A formal observation of a teacher can be harrowing for both observer and the observed. This pressure can be much greater if initial or continued employment depends on the observation. However, it need not be such a trial. Both participants, particularly the observer, can take steps to make it constructive for both sides.

Teaching IB Commentary - Literature

IB Language A (Lit) students must produce a commentary on a literary extract, one written and one oral. Language A (Lit /Lan) must produce an oral literary commentary and a written comparative commentary. While the passage sources may be different, commentary skills are easily learnt and a simple method and accompanying checklist will prove invaluable to teacher and student alike.

Look, see, watch

Similar words, related meanings, widely different uses. How does a teacher show the differences?