To be honest, English teachers teach three distinct but related subjects: the use of English, the study of English Literature and the study of English Language. Far too frequently, English teachers are prepared in the first two of these, but they have at best a passing knowledge of the third. The study of English language includes dialects, advertising and commercials, the language of power and so on. A knowledge of semantics, sociolinguistics, pyscholinguistics, philology inter alia is invaluable and will unlock English to teacher and student alike.
Think of me as your coach, mentor and online critical friend. I can help with many of your teaching and administrative concerns, especially English Language and Literature, language immersion/dual language, skills-based and standards-based programs, from my experiences and knowledge gained as a PK - 6 and PK - 12 school leader, especially in start-up, re-launch/ re-branding, strategic planning, international school teaching and leading an international school in the USA.
Monday 30 June 2014
Teaching Fantasy Writing
From Narnia to Harry Potter to Middle Earth, fantasy writing is popular amongst students. Yet writing fantasy is not as easy as it appears. Too often, teachers follow a "deep end" approach and results are disappointing. Simple steps and story prompts can produce some wonderful pieces, while providing excellent teaching and learning opportunities.
Starting an Immersion or Dual-Language Program
Immersion or dual-language programs* are now becoming popular in the US especially. However, elsewhere in the world they have existed for at least 150 years! To be successful, they must be carefully and thoughtfully designed and implemented.
(*Sometimes these programs are called "bilingual", but that is really a different thing.)
(*Sometimes these programs are called "bilingual", but that is really a different thing.)
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