Mar 23, 2015 Lexis, Opinions, The state of our profession, Vocabulary Choice In so many words: on the importance and shape of vocabulary lists Today we’re delighted to feature a guest post by Bruno Leys. Bruno works at VIVES University College in Bruges, Belgium. He’s published several coursebook series such as Breakaway, Takeaway and High Five and he regularly gives talks and workshops for teachers. Below, Bruno shares his thoughts on vocabulary lists . . . Last spring, when […]
Mar 22, 2015 Chunks, Phrase of the day Phrase of the day: in the run-up to As many of you may be aware, there’s a general election here in the UK in just a couple of months. This year also sees crucial elections in Turkey and Spain and no doubt in many other places as well. As the media gears up for the big day, the news becomes more and more […]
Mar 19, 2015 Opinions, The state of our profession When less is more: freeing students from the burden of choice There’s a reason why Starbucks will never catch on it Italy. Go to any branch of the global chain and try ordering a cappuccino and you’ll be met with a barrage of questions: What size do you want? Do you want any extra flavours added? An extra shot perhaps? Hot or iced? Made with any […]
Mar 16, 2015 Classroom Activities, Opinions Two-way translation in the multilingual classroom I’m just back from Turkey, where I delivered a one-day workshop on teaching grammar through International House in Izmir. One issue that arose, as it often does with nonnatives, is whether or not translation should be allowed. My own belief has long been that it should not only be allowed, but actively encouraged – and […]
Mar 13, 2015 Grammar, Opinions Thoughts on teaching grammar: part four I finished teaching the Focus On Grammar course I’d been doing one evening a week at IH London last night. Like most teachers, I always hate that moment of goodbye at the end of a course, as you know you may well never again see the lovely people you’ve developed a relationship with. Despite that, […]
