Learner Autonomy

Teaching Harry Potter: Dealing with Vocabulary

in Learner Autonomy, Literature, Reading, Teaching, Vocabulary acquisition

Using Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone as the basis for vocabulary instruction offers a rich, engaging context for your students—especially those at B1 level and upward. This post provides research-backed insights, practical strategies, checklists and templates to help you navigate the complexities of vocabulary teaching in a literary context. Read more

Study Strategies

in EAP - English for Academic Purposes, Learner Autonomy, Teaching

Developing “learner autonomy” has been a crucial element of TEFL for at least as long as I’ve been teaching, so it’s interesting to see what seems to be a growing interest in study strategies from students, on social media and in classes. Read more

Effective Use of Marking Symbols: A Two-Stage Solution

in Cambridge Exams, IELTS exam, Learner Autonomy, Teaching, Writing

As ESL/EFL teachers, providing constructive feedback is crucial for our students’ language development. One common, effective way to offer feedback is through the use of marking symbols. This not only pinpoints areas for improvement but also encourages learner autonomy and self-correction. Read more

Root Words and Meaning A – Z

in EAP - English for Academic Purposes, ESP - English for Specific Purposes, Learner Autonomy, Vocabulary acquisition, Word creation

List of blog posts on root words from Latin and Greek and their meanings. Read more

in Learner Autonomy, Teaching

Organisation

Creating a Study Plan

Vocabulary Notebooks Read more

Literature Circles

in Children, Effective Thinking, Learner Autonomy, Reading, Teenagers

Over the summer I explored Academic Reading Circles (ARC) with pre-sessional students and was impressed with the depth of reading comprehension and quality of discussion they prompted. The students found them both valuable and enjoyable.