Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/tesol-writing
Are you an aspiring English teacher or looking to enhance your skills in teaching reading, writing, and grammar to second language learners? Coursera’s ‘Teach English Now! Second Language Reading, Writing, and Grammar’ course is an invaluable resource that I highly recommend. This comprehensive program delves into practical strategies and theoretical underpinnings essential for effective English language instruction.
The course is structured logically, beginning with foundational concepts in reading. The module ‘Overcoming Reading Difficulties: Dorothy in the Land of Oz’ provides a clear understanding of common reading challenges faced by TESOL students and offers practical solutions rooted in principles like prediction, involvement, and authenticity. Following this, ‘Reading Strategies: The Tortoise and the Hare’ introduces both intensive (skimming, scanning) and extensive (reading for pleasure) reading techniques, equipping teachers with diverse methods to cater to different learning needs.
Transitioning to writing, the course doesn’t shy away from the complexities. ‘Overcoming Writing Difficulties: Hansel and Gretel, or How to Literally Get Out of a Jam’ breaks down the writing process into manageable stages: pre-writing, writing, and post-writing. It also touches upon intriguing concepts like recursion and appropriation, adding depth to the pedagogical approach. The subsequent module, ‘Writing Techniques: Aladdin and the 1,000 Arabian Nights,’ emphasizes the crucial link between reading, speaking, critical thinking, and good writing. Learning about the six traits of writing, voice, and audience awareness provides a robust framework for developing student writing skills.
A particularly insightful section is ‘The Princess and the Pea,’ which masterfully explains how to integrate grammar instruction seamlessly into reading and writing classes. The concept of ‘noticing’ is highlighted as a key principle for both learners and instructors, along with strategies for enhancing input to facilitate language acquisition. The course concludes with a review and assessment, ensuring learners have grasped the core concepts.
Overall, ‘Teach English Now! Second Language Reading, Writing, and Grammar’ is a well-designed course that balances theory with practical application. The use of engaging narratives and relatable examples makes the learning process enjoyable and memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting, this course will undoubtedly elevate your teaching practice.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/tesol-writing