January 2008 - Teaching the English as a Second Language (ESL) Learner

This month we are discussing the challenges faced by our ESL learners. These can include listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Our vodcast features ESL Specialist Nicky Patel who has many years of experience working with ESL students.

Podcasts - Teaching the ESL Learner

An vodcast interview with ESL Specialist Nicky Patel by Maureen Wideman.

Play it / see it - MP4 - 1.7 MB

Challenges of academic listening in English:  reports by Chinese students
by Jinyan Huang 

This article reports the results of a survey of Chinese students and the challenges they face with academic listening which can include: lecture organization, use of textbooks, blackboard writing, participation and group work.

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FCR/is_3_39/ai_n15384402

Constructing an effective mathematics learning environment for ESL students
by Graeme Ward 

This article discusses the issues involved in creating an effective student-centred, problem-based mathematics learning environment for ESL students.

http://www.metsmac.org/2007/proceedings/2005/ward-METSMaC-I.pdf

Ways to Help Your Students Who Use English as a Second Language -- and everyone in the process
by the University of Toronto

This is U of T's faculty web site for improving the learning environment that will not only assist ESL students, but all students. It includes pointers for lectures and class discussions, reading of academic texts, and writing.

http://www.utoronto.ca/writing/facesl.html

Other Resources:

Reforming Mathematics Instruction for ESL Literacy Students
by Keith Buchanan and Mary Helman 

This article recommends integrating math and language teaching for the development of innovative courses.

http://www.cal.org/resources/digest/buchan01.html

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