What is it like living in Vietnam as an Ex-Pat?
Vietnam has grown in popularity and it is now widely acknowledged as a safe place for ex-pats to live and work. The pleasant weather, inexpensive cost of living, vibrant culture, and gradual improvements in Vietnam’s infrastructure all attract ex-pats. These are some of my thoughts and experiences about living in Vietnam for the past 15 … Read more
How to help your child learn English at home.
Why you should teach your child English at home. Helping your child learn English at home. With schools closed due to the Corona virus, parents all over the world are wondering how they can help their children learn English at home. Sure, teachers are teaching online, but as parents, we can do a lot more. … Read more
How to Travel and Work Abroad in Vietnam
That Perfect Asian Experience. Vietnam is a country that’s still relatively unknown to many tourists. It is a country of adventure, culture, and beauty. It’s the perfect destination for anyone who wants to explore Asia without the hassle of flying all the way to China or India. And yet it still borders China, Laos, and … Read more
Is Learning the Alphabet Still Important for ESL Students?
The Importance of the ABC. Do you still think teaching the alphabet is worthwhile or just an excuse to fill in time in the classroom? Do you get sick of hearing the sing-song of the young students attempted at the ABC and then appalled when they can’t say it without singing? I think the ABC … Read more
Teaching Phonics to ESL Students.
What is Phonics? Phonics refers to the sounds of a language and includes how sounds are pronounced, how syllables or words are stressed, and intonation. If students learn early on what sounds each letter or combination of letters makes, it may help them improve their reading, listening, and speaking skills. In a nutshell, phonics is … Read more
Technology Tools for the ESL Classroom | Part 2.
Technology for the ESL Classroom. In my last post, I wrote about the “Essential Tools of the ESL Classroom” In a nutshell, those are tools that I would find hard to do without. Namely, my “Sony blue tooth speaker” with which I could play any recording loud enough for the class to hear, 30 watts … Read more
Lesson Plans for ESL students | Cooking in the Classroom.
Feed their stomachs then feed their brains. As an ESL teacher, I am always looking for different ideas and ways to get my teaching ideas out there. One of the joys of being a long-time ESL teacher is you are never stuck for an idea to use in the classroom. After 15 years I can … Read more
Essential Tech Tools for the ESL Classroom
My Essential Tech Tools for the ESL Classroom. After spending 15 years in Vietnam teaching, I have experienced a wide range of tech availability in the classroom. I have seen everything from high-end whiteboards like the one above to classrooms with just a fan. One thing I have learned is to make sure you are … Read more
Tips for Using Songs in the ESL Classroom.
Using Songs in The ESL Classroom. Music can be used in English classes in a variety of ways. It provides numerous advantages for both the teacher and the pupils, including boosting memory and focus, stimulating learning, and, most significantly, making learning enjoyable. Nothing makes a teacher happier than seeing their kids laugh and grin while … Read more
Why Use Video in The ESL Classroom?
Using Video in the ESL Classroom. Can you remember the 2 distinct feelings you felt, as a student, when a Video lesson was going to be taught? First. The first one was when a TV and DVD unit was wheeled into the classroom. You felt like Christmas had come early and you weren’t going to … Read more
Places you must see in Vietnam.
My favorite “Must See’s” in Vietnam. Whether you come for a holiday or like me an ex-pat who has lived in Vietnam for 15 years, there are myriads of places to see and adventures to experience. These are some of my favorite places I have visited and some of the experiences I have encountered. Vietnam. … Read more
How to teach ESL to Teenagers.
Teaching English to Teenagers. You may believe that teaching ESL to teens is more challenging than teaching English to children or adults. Common preconceptions are that because they are going through changes in their life they are less willing to learn. However, as an experienced EFL teacher of kids and teens, and adults in Vietnam, … Read more