Your Bag of Tricks and More: Key Components of ESL Classes

Presented by: Capital Region Language Center

Morning Refreshments and Working Lunch Provided

Much of teaching an effective and engaging class has to do with the planning we do outside the classroom. This workshop will focus on the components that create a consistently effective learning environment. Firstly, participants will learn how to structure lessons for 2-3 hour classes with effective sequencing, pacing, and a variety of activities. As many of us have heterogeneous and open enrollment classes, special attention will be given to structuring and executing lessons that differentiate content for beginning and intermediate levels and take into account the realities that come with managing a different group of students each class session. Even the most well-planned lessons may not turn out as planned, though, and as teachers, we need to be prepared to shift gears when things are not working. In order to increase our preparedness, for the remainder of the workshop, we will focus on building our “bag of tricks,” 5-6 tried and true activities that can be implemented when a lesson is not going as planned, students are getting bored or restless, or there is extra class time.

Note: Participants should bring 3-4 activities in their personal “bag of tricks” that they can share with the class.