ESL Teacher

ESL Lessons Available for Students!

2011-02-09T22:49:00.004-10:00

Hi Students!

If you are interested in lessons from me, you can contact me through my e-mail - hi.english@gmail.com

I also posted information on Thumbtack:

English as a Second Language Lessons

My lessons are excellent, and you will have fun learning English or learning how to improve your English teaching skills. I am available in person or through the internet.

I am very busy so I do not usually take students. However, if you really want to learn with me, then e-mail me and we can talk about it.

Have an AWESOME day!

Your ESL teacher,
Meylysa

How Learning Another Language Can Improve Your ESL Teaching

2011-01-19T23:22:00.002-10:00

Hi Fellow ESL Teachers and Tutors and Friends!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Today I wanted to offer some advice into becoming a more compassionate and disciplined ESL teacher. Go through what your students are going through by learning another language.

When you succeed in learning another language, you will be better able to teach your students to succeed as well.

I learned French and then Mandarin Chinese. Both were challenging in different and similar ways. Learning them showed me how I could help my students.

It also helped me understand how they feel when they are in my classroom, and how I can best help them improve! What about you? Please comment and share!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 72-73 A Grocery Store

2011-01-18T21:36:00.001-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

It's good to see you today! Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 72 and 73. We are going to be learning about a grocery store!

Pages 72-73, A Grocery Store

Pages 72-73, A Grocery Store REVIEW

Keep up the GREAT work!

Your ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 71 Seafood and Deli

2011-01-17T21:27:00.001-10:00

Hello Students!

Thank you for coming to ESL Teacher! Today we are learning about Seafood and Deli (sandwiches)!!! Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to p. 71. Read, repeat, close your eyes and repeat, write and...LEARN =)

Page 71, Seafood and Deli

Page 71, Seafood and Deli REVIEW

You have AMAZING English!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 70 Meat and Poultry

2011-01-10T20:48:00.000-10:00

Hello Students!

Are you ready to learn English on ESL Teacher? Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 70. We are going to learn about Meat and Poultry.

Listen and practice with your ESL Teacher Meylysa.

Page 70 Meat and Poultry

Page 70 Meat and Poultry Review

Remember, practice makes perfect. Try talking about what you want to eat or buy in English!

You are the best!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 69 Vegetables

2011-01-10T20:37:00.000-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Congratulations! You came to class today! We are learning about Vegetables today! I love vegetables and am excited to teach you about them today. Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 69. Listen, repeat and learn with your ESL teacher Meylysa.

Page 69 Vegetables

Page 69 Vegetables Review

Practice these words and enjoy your vegetables! Tell me what is your favorite vegetable?

You have WONDERFUL English!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 68 Fruit

2011-01-10T20:09:00.002-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher. Today we are learning about Fruit! Yummy! Open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pager 68. Listen and say the words with your ESL teacher Meylysa.

Page 68, Fruit

Page 68, Fruit Review

What is your favorite fruit? Tell me in the comments below!

Thank you for coming to class.

You are an AMAZING student!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Learn about an Internet Business and Help ESL Teacher Grow!

2011-01-01T19:38:00.000-10:00

Help Wanted!

Hello you lovely ESL Teachers, tutors, and interested computer and video editing experts! I'm looking for help with keeping up with developing this website. I have various tasks that I've been doing in my own spare time and need people to help me!

Tasks:
Filming English Lessons
Teaching English Lessons
Video editing
Video uploading
Comment Moderation
Article writing, publishing
Website Page Editing
Writers and Creative Educators for Resource pages
Optimizing the Website

These are tasks that I used to do regularly, and I can train you on all of them. If we work together and the website becomes profitable, you will get a cut. Currently, there is no compensation as I have not made any money off of this website yet.

If you are interested, e-mail to hi.english@gmail.com your resume and contact information. I want ESL Teacher to be awesome, and if you have enjoyed or learned from this website, please offer your assistance!

Thank you!

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 66-67 Back from the Market

2011-01-01T19:23:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL Students!

Thank you for joining ESL class today on ESL Teacher. Open your book, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 66-67. We are going to practice how to talk about food we bring back from the market!

Pages 66-67 Back from the Market

Pages 66-67 Back from the Market REVIEW

Remember, practice your English with your ESL teacher and learn the words by heart!

You are an EXCELLENT student!

Your ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 64-65 The Tenant Meeting

2011-01-01T19:06:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL Students!

It's good to see you today! Our lesson is on a story about a meeting between tenants (people who rent) in an apartment building. Open your book, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to pages 64-65. Practice with your ESL teacher Meylysa and learn about how to talk about your roommates and parties!

Pages 64-65 The Tenant Meeting

Pages 64-65 The Tenant Meeting REVIEW

I'm so PROUD of your English!

Your ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 62-63 Household Problems and Repairs

2011-01-01T18:53:00.000-10:00

Hello Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Today we are learning about household problems and repairs. You will learn how to talk about fixing your house! Open your The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to pages 62 and 63. Follow along with your ESL Teacher, Meylysa, and practice practice practice!

pp. 62-63, Household Problems and Repairs

pp. 62-63, Household Problems and Repairs REVIEW

YOU ARE AN AMAZING STUDENT!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 61 Cleaning Supplies

2010-11-01T22:10:00.002-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to class at ESL Teacher. Today we are learning words for cleaning supplies. Open your English (ESL) textbook, , to page 61. Practice the words, and pick 10 to memorize.

Do you broom or vacuum? Do you dust with a feather duster? Do you use a mop?

Page 61 Cleaning Supplies

Page 61 Cleaning Supplies REVIEW

You are a wonderful student, and a good friend. If I haven't met you yet, introduce yourself!

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 60 Housework

2010-11-01T21:41:00.003-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Today we are going to learn about housework. Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 60.

Do you like to clean your house? Is your house clean?

Practice along with your ESL Teacher, Meylysa, and speak English at home!

Page 60, Housework

Page 60, Housework REVIEW

Your English is AWESOME!!!

Your humble ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 59 The Kids' Bedroom

2010-10-18T20:29:00.005-10:00

Hi English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! You are such an awesome student for coming to class today! Please open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 59.

We are going to learn words for the kids' bedroom. Practice until you remember!

Page 59, The Kids' Bedroom

Page 59, The Kids' Bedroom REVIEW

Do you have kids? What is in their bedroom?

Are you a kid? What is in your bedroom?

Tell me! Please comment and share.

You have AMAZING English!

Your English (ESL) Teacher,

Meylysa

When do I Use "A" and "The"? Understanding Count vs. Non-Count Nouns

2010-10-14T21:59:00.005-10:00

Hello Fellow Esteemed ESL Teachers!

Today we are talking about the elusive "a" and "the". When do you use them? When do you leave them out? What the heck is a count and a noncount noun anyway?

Ah, your questions are about to be answered...finally!

Count vs. Noncount Nouns

Count nouns are countable, which means that you can use numbers with them.
EXAMPLE: 3 cats, 5 tables, 10 coins

Noncount nouns cannot be counted
air (not 1 air), information (not 3 informations), furniture (not 5 furnitures)

Noncount nouns can be counted if you use measure words
2 tanks of air, 3 books of information, 5 pieces of furniture

When to use "A"

Use a when you have a single count noun.
EXAMPLE: A dog is a great pet.

Do not use "A" with non-count nouns
EXAMPLE: Money is important (not "a" money)

When to put an "s" after nouns?

Plural Count Nouns need "s"
EXAMPLE: There are 3 dogs.

Non-Count nouns do not need an "s" and are grammatically singular
EXAMPLE: There is money. (use "is" instead of "are")

Put an "s" after count nouns when making generalizations
EXAMPLE: Dogs are great pets.

Some and A Lot

Count and Non-count nouns both use "some"
EXAMPLE: Some pens (count nouns need "s")....some furniture....some mail

Count and Non-count nouns both use "some"

EXAMPLE: A lot of birds (count noun...so has "s") are flying to see a lot of people (non-count).

Many and A Few

Many and A Few are used with Count Nouns
EXAMPLE: I have many books.
EXAMPLE 2: I have a few pencils.

Much and A Little
Much and A Little are used with Non-Count Nouns

EXAMPLE: I don't have much coffee.
EXAMPLE 2: I have a little money.

When to use "the"
Use "the" when you and the audience knows what you are talking about, you both know the context

EXAMPLE: The party is going to be on Tuesday (The speaker and listener already know there is going to be a party and what exact party it is)

REMEMBER - IF YOU FIND THIS CHALLENGING, THEN READ THE GRAMMAR LESSON BEFORE YOUR STUDENTS

I took the info in this post from Basic English Grammar, Third Edition (Full Student Book with Audio CD and Answer Key) Like it? Check it out!

Thank you so much for your visit today! Please comment and share!

Your friendly fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 58 A Bedroom

2010-10-11T00:37:00.001-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Thank you for coming to class at ESL Teacher today! Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 58. Today we are going to learn about words in the bedroom. Study along with your ESL Teacher, Meylysa and speak great English!

Page 58, A Bedroom

Page 58, A Bedroom REVIEW

Speak English! You sound GREAT!!!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 54 A Kitchen

2010-10-11T00:25:00.001-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher. In today's class, we are looking at your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, page 54. The lesson is on the kitchen!

Page 54, A Kitchen

Page 54, A Kitchen REVIEW

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

I love your English!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 57 A Bathroom

2010-10-05T23:37:00.001-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students,

It's great to see you on ESL Teacher! Welcome.

Today, open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 57. We are going to learn about a bathroom.

Page 57, A Bathroom

Page 57, A Bathroom REVIEW

Follow your ESL teacher Meylysa and practice practice PRACTICE!

You have wonderful English!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 56 A Living Room

2010-10-05T23:19:00.003-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher. You are going to learn a lot of English today! Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 56.

Do you have a living room? What is in your living room? Please comment and share!

Page 56, A Living Room

Page 56, A Living Room REVIEW

You have AWESOME ENGLISH!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 55 A Dining Area

2010-10-05T23:00:00.005-10:00

Hello ESL (English) Students!!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Today we are going to learn about a dining area. Practice the words and you can talk about plates and forks and spoons.

Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 55. Listen to your English (ESL) teacher Meylysa and practice!

Page 55, A Dining Room

Page 55, A Dining Area REVIEW

Your ESL teacher,

Meylysa
Your English is AMAZING!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 53 A House and Yard

2010-09-17T00:13:00.003-10:00

Hello Great English (ESL) Students!

Welcome and thank you for visiting ESL Teacher! Today we are learning about a house and yard. Open your English (ESL) textbook, the Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 53. Follow with your teacher Meylysa and practice practice practice!

Page 53, A House and Yard

Page 53, A House and Yard REVIEW

I Love Your ENGLISH!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 52 Different Places to Live

2010-09-17T00:06:00.002-10:00

Hello Wonderful English Students!

Thank you for your visit to ESL Teacher today =) Please open your English (ESL) textbook, the Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 52. We are learning about different places to live!

Page 52, Different Places to Live

Page 52, Different Places to Live REVIEW

Your English is AMAZING!!!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 50-51 Apartments

2010-09-16T23:55:00.003-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

It's time to open your English (ESL) textbook, the Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 50 to 51. We are learning about apartments! Do you live in a an apartment? Leave me a comment and tell me!

Pages 50-51, Apartments

Pages 50-51, Apartments REVIEW

You Are Amazing!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 48-49 Finding a Home

2010-07-31T21:31:00.005-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Let's learn English to help find a home! Open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 48 and 49. Listen and repeat after your English (ESL) teacher Meylysa!

Page 48, Finding a Home

Pages 48-49, Finding a Home

Pages 48-49, Finding a Home REVIEW

Do you want to rent or to buy?

Are you looking for a house or an apartment?

How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?

Practice practice practice!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Your English ROCKS!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 46-47 The Home

2010-07-28T20:30:00.002-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher. Today we are learning about the home. Open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 46 and 47. Practice the words with your ESL teacher Meylysa.

Pages 46-47 The Home

Pages 46-47 The Home REVIEW

You have AMAZING ENGLISH!!!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Join the Contest! Win over $3,000 in awesome PRIZES!!! Reward the ESL teachers of the World = )

2010-07-21T21:06:00.006-10:00

Hello ESL Teachers, ESL Tutors and Friends,

Here are the results of the Contest. As of January 2, 2011 here are the number of views for your awesome affirmations:

Bridget - 22 views
Nate - 33 views
Shalina - 17 views
Helene - 69 views

Thanks for participating and know that your affirmations are helping others feel good =)

Yours Truly,

Meylysa

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Contest Details:

FIRST ANNUAL POWER TO THE ESL TEACHER CONTEST!

That's right. Film yourself giving yourself and the world the best and most awesome affirmations for teachers. Upload your video to You Tube and send in your entry form found in the contest rules below. Not only do you feel good, but other teachers get to feel good watching your video!

An affirmation would be stating something to be true which is not yet true (I am the winner of the POWER TO THE ESL TEACHER CONTEST!). A declaration would be stating something that is true or something you intend to be true (I am an excellent ESL teacher!). T Harv Eker's book Secrets of the Millionaire Mind talks about declarations on pages 15-17. Watch the videos of current participants below:

Here are the contest rules:
1) Post a video of yourself giving us your best affirmations and/or declarations by December 31, 2010 midnight.

2) E-mail to hi.english@gmail.com the following form with all information filled in by December 31st, 2010 at midnight:
   a) First Name and Last Name:
   b) Link to your You Tube video:
   c) Mailing Address:
   d) e-mail address:
   e) current ESL teaching position:
   f) your school name if you teach at a school:
   g) the city and country where you teach:
   h) the ages and nationalities of the students you teach:
   i) How you heard about this contest:
   j) Any inspirational thoughts you want me to share with our readers:
   k) Whether you want to be notified of future offers, articles or awesome ESL teacher resources (Yes or No):
   l) Your phone number: (optional, will be used to call you only if you win)

3) Your video will be judged by Meylysa and her panel of teachers (may be anywhere between 0 to many). A majority vote puts you on this post and gets you:
   * a free Get Hardwired for Success, by T Harv Eker (while supplies last) which includes one Premium Seating ticket to a Millionaire Mind Intensive Seminar (value of $1,295!)

The first video posted on this blog will also get a special card from myself and a box of Hawaiian Host chocolate as a reward for taking action!

4) On January 1st, by 5pm, all videos posted on this blog with over 1000 views will be entered into the Grand Prize Finale Contest. In this contest, the video with the most views on You Tube at 5pm on January 1, 2011 wins the Grand Prize -
   *Your very own brand new copy of the Oxford Picture Dictionary Lesson Plans
   *A scrumptious box of Hawaiian Host chocolate fresh from Hawaii with aloha
   *A special section at the top of the contest blog post where you can advertise your services or tell your students more about your wonderful self
   *A special place on my Christmas card list.
   *A copy of T. Harv Eker's amazing book, Secrets of the Millionaire Mind, with bonuses.
   *Two free Premium Seating tickets to a Millionaire Mind Intensive Seminar (value of $1,295x2=$3,590!).

Meylysa's Affirmations and Declarations (Can you do better? Show me!)
I am an excellent teacher!
I am psyched to go to class today!
I am so excited!
I am so excited to go to class!
I'm going to class and my students are going to be pumped!
Yes!
Let's go!
Let's do it!
I am excited!
Bring it on!

Your fellow ESL Teacher,
Meylysa!

Re-Energize Here! Pep Talk for Teachers and Affirmations!

2010-07-21T19:24:00.001-10:00

HELLLOOO ESL TEACHERS!!!

Welcome to ESL Teacher, the ultimate ESL teacher PARADISE ON THE INTERNET. You have come to the right post. If you want to re-energize, re-vitalize, affirm and build up that confidence in your worth as an ESL teacher, then now is the time!

This first video is dedicated to a new ESL teacher, who sometimes feels he's "faking it". Don't we all?! But, we are all still AWESOME teachers. Let this video cheer you up!

This next video gives you some affirmations. Say them with me, make up your own, say them to yourself in the mirror loud and with excitement. They will help you feel awesome, which is how ALL ESL TEACHERS SHOULD ALWAYS FEEL. Wouldn't you agree?

Promise with me to always enjoy and feel grateful for being an ESL teacher. Promise yourself that you will live each day joyfully and feeling pumped!

Your excited to be an ESL Teacher fellow ESL Teacher,
Meylysa!!!!!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 42-43 Feelings

2010-07-14T21:09:00.005-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to class on ESL Teacher. You are going to have fun today! We are going to learn about feelings. Open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 42 and 43. Read along with your English (ESL) teacher Meylysa. Repeat and memorize! Practice makes perfect English!

Page 42 - Feelings

Page 43 - Feelings

Pages 42-43 - Feelings Review

Thank you for joining class today!

Your English is AMAZING!!!

Your English (ESL) Teacher,

Meylysa

Dr. Pakaj Naram and the Benefits of Ayervda

2010-07-11T20:27:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL Teachers, Tutors and Friends!

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a wonderful place of great posts and awesome resources to hone super ESL Teachers! This post is dedicated to my new doctor, Vaidya Pakaj Naram.

Dr. Naram's 6/22/10 Presentation - Part 1 Intro and Dr. Naram's Story

Dr. Naram's 6/22/10 Presentation - Part 2 Stories of Longevity

Dr. Naram's 6/22/10 Presentation - Part 3 Recipes

Dr. Pankaj Naram has a website for his Mumbai Office and his New York office.
http://www.ayushakti-usa.com/

Dr. Naram's Video Explaining Why People Have Bad Breath

Here are some testimonials that I found on You Tube:

Health and Fitness Resources

2010-07-11T19:22:00.001-10:00

Hello fellow ESL Teachers, Tutors and Friends,

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Thank you for your visit. This post and the links on it could change your life.

This post is a centered on Health and Fitness, and was inspired by my recent experience at a Peak Potentials Seminar called Extreme Health...which I highly recommend you attend. My wonderful friend Yoshiko wanted me to tell her what happened at the event, so this will be a summary of what I saw. Please feel free to share these resources! Below is a quick video explaining this post and also on how to have sound sleep:

I have always felt that it is important to take care of all aspects of our lives, and pay particular attention not only to teaching and to my career, but also to my health. If you have been a student or a teacher long enough, you will come to find that many students don't do well in class because of lack of sleep, poor diet or lack of exercise. When we are healthy we learn faster, retain more and enjoy our studies, wouldn't you agree?

As ESL teachers, we are better able to teach with energy and become role models for our ESL students. After all, if our students like us and look up to us in terms of our character and our health, they will naturally learn more from us.

Please select from the links below to learn more and get a summary of the information that I tried to absorb during that packed 4 day all day seminar. Thank you T Harv Eker!

Dr. Pakaj Naram and the Benefits of Ayervda

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 40-41 Life Events and Documents

2010-07-08T21:56:00.002-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher today! You are very welcome =)

Today, open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 40-41.

Page 40 Life Events and Documents

Page 41 Life Events and Documents

Page 40 Life Events and Documents REVIEW

Thank you for studying with me today. You are an EXCELLENT Student!

Your ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 38-39 Daily Routines

2010-07-08T21:37:00.002-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Thank you for learning English at ESL Teacher! Open your books, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 38 and 39. Let's begin learning about things you do everyday with your ESL teacher Meylysa.

Pages 38-39 Daily Routines

Pages 38-39 Daily Routines REVIEW

You have AWESOME English!

Thank you for studying with me today.

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 36-37 Childcare and Parenting

2010-05-31T23:14:00.007-10:00

Welcome ESL (English) Students!

Welcome to class today! Open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 36-37, and study childcare and parenting with your ESL teacher, Meylysa.

Childcare and Parenting Lesson on Page 36

Page 36 Childcare and Parenting REVIEW

Page 37, Childcare and Parenting

Page 37, Childcare and Parenting REVIEW

Thank you for joining class today!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 34-35 Families

2010-05-28T05:49:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL (English) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Today we are learning about something that is very very very Very Very VERY VERY important!!! We are learning the words for talking about your family! Open your ESL (English) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to pages 34-35.

Families - ESL (English) Lesson, Part 1 of 2

Families - ESL (English) Lesson, Part 2 of 2

Families - ESL (English) Lesson, REVIEW

YOU ARE AWESOME!!!

ESL Teacher 에 오신걸 환영합니다.

2010-05-19T05:58:00.003-10:00

안녕하십니까!

ESL Teacher 에 오신걸 환영합니다.

허 동국 학생의 한국어 웹사이트 설명을 들어보시고 이 웹사이트를 100% 활용해 보세요.
방문해 주셔서 감사합니다. 질문이 있으시면 hi.english@gmail.com로 메일 주세요!

Hello Korean Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher. Please watch and listen to Dongkuk as he explains how to use this website in Korean. Thank you for your visit! If you have any questions, e-mail me at hi.english@gmail.com!

Your ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Run to a Corner Game for Kindergarten Students

2010-05-18T20:16:00.000-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers!

Welcome and thank you for visiting ESL Teacher today! We really appreciate it =)

Today I want to introduce a game to help kindergarten students learn English and exercise.

Method

1) Put words that you want the students to learn in the corners of the room. One word in each corner.

2) Tell the students to run to the corner with the correct word.

3) Say a word and watch them run and have fun.

4) Say another word, and so on.

NOTE: this game is noisy and you have to clear the space so that the kids have enough room to run around safely.

ENJOY THE GAME!

Simple Present Tense

2010-05-18T18:15:00.006-10:00

Hello ESL Teachers, Tutors and fellow Educators!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! Today, I'm giving you a quick lesson on the SIMPLE PRESENT TENSE. If you think it's used to talk about now, think again!

This is the first lesson in a series to teach English verb tenses. After watching the video, you will understand and be able to explain the simple present tense to your ESL students.

Summary of the Simple Present Tense for ESL teachers:

1) The Simple Present Tense is used when describing facts or truths, habits, recurring events or states of being (it was true yesterday and true today and likely will be true tomorrow).
EX: I am a teacher. (fact or truth)
Dogs are animals. (fact or truth)
She smokes. (habits)
I clean the house on Saturdays. (recurring event)
My shirt is blue. (state of being)

2) The Simple Present Tense is used during sports events, said at the same time (roughly) that the event happens.
EX: He shoots! He scores!

3) The Simple Present Tense is used to talk about a specified date in the future!
EX: I go to the doctor at 3.

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 33 Describing Hair

2010-05-11T22:10:00.003-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to English class today! Open your ESL Textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 33. Let's learn to talk, read and write about hair!

Page 33, Describing Hair

Page 33, Describing Hair REVIEW

Excellent Work!

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 32 Describing People

2010-05-04T21:07:00.004-10:00

Hello ESL Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher! It's good to see you!

Today we are opening our textbook, the Oxford Picture Dictionary, to page 32. Listen to your ESL Teacher Meylysa say words to help describe people.

Page 32, Describing People

Page 32, Describing People REVIEW

You can use these sentences:
I am _____.
You are _____.
He is _____.
She is _____.
Meylysa is ________.
We are _______.
They are ______.
English students are ______.

Practice making sentences like:
English students are attractive!

Your English is AWESOME!

The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, Lesson Plans

2010-05-01T19:39:00.008-10:00

Hello fellow ESL Teachers, ESL Tutors and compatriots!

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a truly exciting blog on how to teach and learn ESL. Thank you for your visit!

Today I recommend that you buy The Oxford Picture Dictionary Lesson Plans (Oxford Picture Dictionary 2e).

It has ready made QUALITY lesson plans for you. In addition, it has the same page that the students see in their books (reduced in size to fit your book). It's the ESL Vocabulary Teaching BIBLE.

Do I need to say more?

Your fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Dictation Race Game for the ESL Classroom

2010-04-29T22:25:00.000-10:00

Hello fellow ESL Teachers, ESL Tutors and Happy Followers!

Thank you so much for visiting ESL Teacher. You are loved and appreciated!!!

Today, let's talk about a fun classroom activity for almost any level of students!

Method:
1) Pick out a conversation, preferably on a CD or other audio recording. Interchange is a good ESL textbook with a lot of conversations.
2) Write the names of the people talking in the dialogue on the board for each line of the dialogue. Write the names twice, one on each side of the board, so that two teams can write at the same time.
EXAMPLE:

John:
Sally:
John:
Sally:
John:

3) Divide the class into two teams, line them up with the first person holding a whiteboard marker and ready to write.

4) Play the CD once, tell the students to write what they hear.

5) The next student comes up, gets the marker, play the CD again.

6) Keep rotating students until every student has gotten a try.

7) Compare the teams' work. Who is more accurate? Correct any mistakes you find for both teams.

8) Congratulate the winners!

How to Effectively Use the Board

2010-04-29T21:48:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL Teachers, ESL Students and Supporters!

Thanks for visiting ESL Teacher, a truly AWESOME resource for ESL teachers and ESL learners!

Today, let's discuss how to use the board in the ESL classroom.

Tips:
1) Write only new information on the board, do not copy the book onto the board.

2) Use the board to help with pronunciation if needed: write a word and then break it into parts, underline the parts or separate them with lines.

3) If you say a word or a sentence the students don't all understand, write it on the board and explain it to the students.

4) Use the board to keep you focused. Be sure that if you say something that is not in the book, then write it on the board. If you are writing words that are off topic or too complicated, or just too many new words on the board, you know that you need to be more careful with the words you are using.

5) Be sure you write clearly! Check your legibility.

6) Be sure to spell the words correctly. Check your writing!

Thanks for your visit. Leave your own tips in the comments below =)

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Speaking Slowly in the Beginning ESL Classroom

2010-04-28T19:21:00.002-10:00

Welcome ESL Teachers, ESL Tutors, and Supporters!

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher, the most happening ESL place on the internet!

Today, let's talk about speaking slowly in the beginning ESL Classroom.

I usually speak slower when teaching ESL beginners, as it is difficult for them to understand what I am saying.

Tips:
1) For the elementary ESL learner, speak slowly. Focus on individual words and use pictures, pointing or gestures to convey the meaning until the students understand.

2) For the elementary ESL learner, pause between words. This gives them time to understand one word at a time.

3) For the intermediate ESL learner, speak normally first. Then slow your words down until you have everyone understanding.

4) For the advanced ESL learner, speak normal speed. You can slow down if they have difficulty pronouncing a word.

Just imagine if you were learning a foreign language...would you want the ESL teacher to speak slowly?

Hope this was helpful! Please leave your comments!

Your fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

How You Can Support ESL Teacher!!

2010-04-28T00:17:00.011-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL teachers, ESL Tutors and Supporters!

Thank you for visiting ESL teacher! Now that you've found this excellent resource, and now that it has greatly improved the quality of your life and your ESL students' lives...you are wondering how can I support this amazing website!

FREE WAYS TO SUPPORT ESL TEACHER:

1) Volunteer and help with video editing, upkeeping the website, teaching ESL lessons, and all the other tasks that need to be done. I will train you for FREE. More details on the Help Wanted blog post.

2) Tell your co-workers and students about the blog. Write down the address and give it to five teachers and five students. Tell them to pass on this AWESOME and FREE resource to their friends, family and co-workers. Spread the word =)

3) Leave thoughtful comments and suggestions under the posts.

4) Suggest an AWESOME idea of your own on how you can divinely help ESL Teacher! You or someone you know may have an amazing marketing/business strategy that could help us out even more!

FUN WAYS TO SPEND SOME MONEY AND HELP ESL TEACHER:

1) Buy your ESL textbook or have your students buy their ESL textbook from the links in this blog (such as The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition or Basic English Grammar, Third Edition (Full Student Book with Audio CD and Answer Key)). Buying books from Amazon through the links in ESL Teacher will raise a small commission...and the cost will be the same to you!

2) Buy Hawaii Chocolate for fundraising or to give as gifts! The earnings go to ESL Teacher, and some also go to a designated charity. Plus...it's fun to buy chocolate...and this chocolate is really yummy =)

3) Donate to ESL Teacher by pressing the Donate Button below. Donations are not tax deductible, but go towards feeding, clothing and sheltering your ESL teacher...as well as paying for equipment and supplies! Suggested donations are $5/year for students, and $15/year for teachers. For our wealthier patrons, we have a contest. The highest annual donation over $10,000 gets the opportunity to meet with Meylysa in-person. The winner will be announced by January 4 of the following year by 5pm Hawaii Time. May the best one win!

Thanks for wanting to support ESL Teacher! It's much appreciated =)

Your local friendly ESL Teacher super hero!!!!

Meylysa

Pointing as a Learning Tool

2010-04-24T21:39:00.001-10:00

Hello fellow ESL Teachers!

Welcome to ESL Teacher, an awesome blog here for you always!

Today we discuss having students point to things to improve their listening ESL comprehension.

When you tell students to point, they can take a physical action to re-enforce their listening ESL comprehension. It's also a fun and easy activity!

Thanks, and as always, please leave comments!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Pulling Out Patterns to Teach ESL Vocabulary

2010-04-24T21:20:00.004-10:00

Hello and welcome to ESL Teacher...the most amazing and wonderful place to hone your English teaching skills In The World!

Let's begin today's topic, how to pull out patterns to help ESL Learners retain new vocabulary.

Whether you are teaching advanced ESL learners or elementary ESL learners, they learn phrases and sentences just like they learn words. They memorize it as a whole. If you want students, especially elementary ESL learners, to break out and learn to use a pattern, you need to show them the pattern, and have them practice the pattern.

Example 1: 3-year-old boy
1) Teach the meaning of 3-year-old boy
2) Teach that you can use other numbers like 4-year-old boy
3) Practice giving students numbers like 5, 10, 12 and have students make the pattern (5-year old boy...etc)
4) Change boy to girl, do a pattern practice with different numbers again.
5) Change to woman...then man...and repeat.

Example 2: My ____ hurts.
1) Teach body parts (head, hand, leg, etc.)
2) Teach "My head hurts"
3) Give students body parts ("Head") and have the students say the pattern ("My head hurts").
4) Let the students create their own patterns.

ESL learners need to practice the words a lot, and practice the patterns a lot. Advanced ESL learners and elementary ESL learners will benefit from this constant practice in the classroom, and will gradually build up their vocabulary and the number of useful phrases and sentences that they can make on their own.

If you have any other advice on pulling out patterns and using these patterns to re-enforce vocabulary, then please share! This post is similar to the post on using sentence practice help students learn new vocabulary, so please visit it as well!

Thanks!

Your fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 30-31 Adults and Children

2010-04-24T20:17:00.007-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher. Open your English (ESL) textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to pages 30-31. Listen to your English (ESL) teacher, Meylysa, and learn English! We are learning about adults and children, and what you call people with different ages.

pp. 30-31 Adults and Children

pp. 30-31 REVIEW

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT AND YOU ARE PERFECT!

Be Enthusiastic!

2010-04-21T06:15:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL Teachers and Tutors,

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a place to become your ultimate ESL teaching self! Today!

Today we will talk about the value of enthusiasm. It's important in beginning classes to be enthusiastic. Why?

1) You want to keep yourself excited and happy about teaching (after all, we love what we are doing!)

2) You want your ESL students to be excited about learning (after all, learning English rocks)!

3) You want your ESL students to understand the material better!

So, enthusiasm rocks! But how do you do enthusiasm?

1) Act out the words and phrases you are teaching. If you are doing a dialogue, act out the dialogue. If the students are doing a dialogue, have them act out the dialogue!

2) Smile and be perky. Be energetic (if this is hard for you, then try to exercise a lot and eat proper nutrition).

3) Look at your students and see if they understand. If they don't look like they understand, then ask them directly if they understand. If they say no, act it out, write descriptions, draw pictures until they understand! It's a fun challenge!

Good luck and invite me to your ESL class sometime soon! If you are an ESL teacher now, please leave comments!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 22 Calendar Events

2010-04-21T06:04:00.003-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher. Today we are learning about Calendar Events in your Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 22. An event is a special time or occasion. We are going to talk about days that are printed on a calendar from the United States. These days are holidays. We are also going to talk about days that you write on your calendar, like appointments with your doctor!

Calendar Events on p. 22 in Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition

Review of Calendar Events on p. 22 in Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition

So, watch the lesson, use your dictionary if you have to and study hard =) Today in the United States is "Administrative Professionals (Secretary) Day" so Happy Administrative Professionals Day!

Your English ROCKS!

Oxford Picture Dictionary: Low Beginning Workbook

2010-04-10T22:47:00.007-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and ESL Tutors,

Here is another great book to add to your library, Oxford Picture Dictionary: Low Beginning Workbook. I suggest that you have students buy the book, as it is excellent practice for them.

Each page in the The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition corresponds to a page in this workbook. Students can also practice listening, as there are two audio CDs included in the back, which they can listen to while they do the listening activities in the back of the book.

These books are very useful as an added practice in your class. They can be used in the last half hour and give you time to walk around and give students individual attention.

The cost is only $13-$16 depending on where you buy the book. It's a really good deal.

Please feel free to post a comment on this workbook!

Thank you for your visit today!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

First Week of ESL Teacher Training LEVEL 1

2010-04-10T22:02:00.005-10:00

Hello Aspiring ESL Teachers!

Welcome to the first week of ESL Teacher training. After watching each training video you should drop to the floor and give me 20 push-ups. Well, you don't have to, but it wouldn't hurt =)

Video 1

Let's begin with an introduction to the bible of ESL textbooks for vocabulary, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition. This is the textbook we use on ESL Teacher and if you are serious about teaching, you should order the teacher's book: The Oxford Picture Dictionary Lesson Plans (Oxford Picture Dictionary 2e).

Finally, please view the following lessons:
The Importance of Repetition and the Language Habit

Keep it Simple

Learning Student Names and Introductions for Beginners

How to Introduce Vocabulary to Beginner and Intermediate Students

You're first assignment is to teach! If you are at the Drop-In Center, you will only have to do introductions. Please write in the comments section when you want to teach, one question that you have regarding teaching, and one new thing you learned from this training session.

Thank you for joining the class!

Your Fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Building ESL Student Confidence

2010-04-10T21:38:00.003-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and ESL Tutors,

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a great place to become all that you can be as an ESL teacher and ESL tutor.

Today we are going to touch on a very important milestone in an ESL student's life, when they become confident that they can and will succeed in learning English.

Before this point, your student will give up easily and will think that they are not good enough or smart enough or whatever. If you have ever learned or attempted to learn a foreign language, you probably personally already know what this feels like.

TIPS ON BUILDING STUDENT CONFIDENCE

1) Teach them some basic but very useful sentences to memorize. I have students learn the following:
Let me introduce myself.
My name is ____
I'm American/Chinese...
I've been in Hawaii for ____
I've been coming to the Drop-In Center for _____
I'm a teacher/housewife/...

2) I have the beginner students recite these sentences every class until they have them memorized.

3) If the student refuses to believe in their ability to memorize these sentences, I have them memorize one sentence first. And I have them say it to me every class, at least 10 times but an upward of 50 times, until they've memorized it. Then I work on the next sentence, and have them say the 1st and 2nd sentences many many times again, until they have memorized it as well.

4) Be persistent and be consistent. Don't change up the sentences until they have mastered them. Don't teach them anything else until they have memorized all of the sentences. Be sure that they say all of the sentences at the beginning of every class and that they remember them before you teach anything new.

5) The very act of memorizing those sentences will help them break down their negative beliefs, and will give them the confidence and the knowledge of how to study on their own.

Please share any techniques that you have! We would all really appreciate it!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Motivating Students to be On Time

2010-04-10T20:00:00.002-10:00

Hello fellow ESL Teachers and ESL Tutors,

Welcome to ESL Teacher, the most happening English Teacher training on the PLANET! Thank you for visiting today.

Let's focus for a moment on how to motivate students to be on time for class.

5 TIPS TO MOTIVATE STUDENTS TO BE ON TIME:

1) As an ESL teacher, always be on time. Always start the class on time. This will motivate almost all of your students to come on time, as they will know that you will be there and if they aren't there, they will miss part of class.

2) Tell your students to be on time.

3) Have activities that are graded (if you have grades) at the beginning of class, like review quizzes and so on.

4) Give late students an activity. For example, have them stand in front of the class and have all of the students ask them one question about why they are late (this give the class question formation practice, and gives that late student lots of speaking practice).

5) Talk to the late student privately and find out if they have an ongoing commitment that causes them to be late (bus schedule, job, children going to school, etc). If their lateness cannot be helped, then have them come in the room in a non disruptive a method as possible. If possible, let the other students know that you are allowing that student to be late because they have a valid commitment.

Any other suggestions? Leave a comment!

Thank you for visiting!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 11 A Day at School

2010-04-10T19:25:00.005-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to class at ESL Teacher! Today we will be learning about A DAY AT SCHOOL. Open your English (ESL) Textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 11. Listen and repeat after your English (ESL) Teacher Meylysa.

Practice everyday until you remember!

Page 10 A Day at School

Page 10 REVIEW

Your English is Amazing!

Using Eye Contact in the ESL Classroom

2010-04-08T22:26:00.001-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and ESL Tutors,

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher, the best place to hone your English teaching skills. I really appreciate your visit!

Today I wanted to discuss the use of eye contact as a tool in teaching an ESL class. As most teachers perhaps instinctively already know, it is important to look at your students. This is how you can tell if they understand the lesson, if they are pronouncing the words correctly...or if they're sleeping!

However, I find it interesting that some new teachers are not looking at their students. Give your students eye contact time, be sure to look at each and every student as you teach. It makes the students feel like a part of the class.

In addition to getting a feel for your students, you can use eye contact to help students practice speaking. Here's a technique that I use to help students learn dialogues:

1) Write a dialogue on the board and then pair up students and have them practice it.

2) Have the students switch partners, and this time tell your students to look at each other, and not read the words.

3) If your students tell you they can't remember, tell them to look at the words, then look at their partner, and then speak.

4) Feel free to tell the students that you are having them practice speaking without reading for their own good. After all, they aren't going to walk around reading a book when they talk to people!

5) Have the student pairs come up to the front of the class and perform the dialogue. Be sure that they look at each other (and not stare off to the ceiling or the floor!).

Eye contact is very important in keeping a class focused. If they can look at you in unison, then you have a class that's ready to learn from you.

Please, share your advice or experience with eye contact in the ESL classroom. Thank you again for visiting ESL Teacher!

Your fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 2-3 Meeting and Greeting

2010-04-08T21:21:00.001-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL Teacher. Today we are learning about Meeting and Greeting!

How are you today? Do you want to learn English? Good! Let's learn to say Hello, say Good-bye (you can also say "Bu Bye"). Please, introduce yourself. Write and tell me your name and where you are from!

Thank you for learning English with your ESL teacher today!

Meeting and Greeting Part 1 of 2

Meeting and Greeting Part 2 of 2

Meeting and Greeting REVIEW

You are an EXCELLENT English Speaker!

The Importance of Using an ESL Textbook

2010-04-07T21:55:00.004-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and ESL Tutors,

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher, the place were teachers grow to be wise and revered educators, making the world an amazing place for all!

In this blog we will touch on the importance of using textbooks in the classroom. Here are some points I wanted to share:

1) Using a good textbook will save an ESL teacher tons of time! You won't have to prepare as many materials, and you won't have to spend time photo copying.

2) A good textbook will be cherished by students more than a binder of handouts, usually. Students will be more likely to use it, to keep it and to study from it.

3) If you pick a textbook, and have the students invest their money into it, then you should use it! Use it regularly. You can use it every Tuesday and Thursday, or everyday, but make sure your students know what days to bring their books!

4) To get your students to bring their books to school, use it consistently! Don't copy the book for students who do not have the book. In our school, if students don't have to book, they have to share with other students.

5) A common textbook used in all of your ESL classes allows for easy teacher substitution, if a teacher can't make it to teach on a certain day.

I hope these tips will help you in the classroom. In the case of the school I teach in, students come and go as they please. Sometimes they don't want to buy the textbook, and sometimes teachers give up on using the book. However, if the book is a good one, then it is worth the effort to expect your students to bring it.

Also, I find that the Oxford Picture Dictionary is an amazing book. I really enjoy using it and it saves me so much time! I highly recommend it!

Let everyone know if you have other points, ideas, comments or complements you would like to share!

Thanks again for visiting =)

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Using Quizzes to Help Students Learn New Vocabulary

2010-04-07T20:23:00.001-10:00

Hello ESL Teachers and Tutors,

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher, the best blog for teachers developing their trade, and looking for free online lessons and homework to give to their students!

Today let's focus on how to use quizzes to help students learn new vocabulary. The quizzes that I usually give are self graded, so the students don't have any pressure about grades. They are also pop quizzes and don't involve any preparation, so they are a great tool for teacher who needs some extra time enjoying life =)

The quiz below is really good for helping students recall a word they have learned, and practice writing it down. I used to have my tutors do this to help me learn Chinese. It's very effective!

STEPS FOR QUIZ PRACTICE:

1) Have the students close their books and take out paper and a pencil.

2) Tell them to number their paper from 1 to 10 (or how many questions that you have).

3) Tell them to write down the word. You can either say the word (beginner level), describe the word using other words (all levels), or act out the word. I prefer using both descriptions and acting. If you describe the word, be sure to use words that the students will understand!

4) After you are finished with the words, number the board and ask the students for the answers. If you want, you can ask them to spell the word for you and write it as they spell it.

5) Ask the students to grade themselves and ask them to share their score with the class!

Thank you for your visit! I sincerely hope that it was helpful to you!!!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Using Sentence Practice to Help Students Learn New Vocabulary

2010-04-07T20:04:00.001-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and ESL Tutors,

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a web sanctuary for ambitious and caring ESL teachers around the world!

Today I wanted to introduce a simple and yet powerful language teaching technique. When you teach students new words, have them make at least 2 sentences with those words.

This teaching technique is a classic, used in many classrooms and ALWAYS effective. In fact, I used it every time I learned new words in Chinese. I even gave myself this homework and asked my tutors to correct the sentences I made.

CLASSROOM SENTENCE PRACTICE:

1) Have students write 2 sentences for each of the new words they used (especially the verbs!!!) Students may do this for homework, or classwork. Tell the students to make the sentences at least 10 words long, and that they should be two very different sentences.

2) Ask students to share their sentences with the class, and write the sentence - word for word.

3) Once you have 5 or 6 sentences on the board, ask your students to look at the first sentence and tell you if it is a good English sentence...or not. This is fun and challenging, as they have to check the grammar and the meaning! I usually make them choose by a vote. If a student says it is wrong, ask them why.

4) If the sentence is right, tell the class it is right and draw a smiley face or star next to it!

5) If the sentence is wrong, correct it using a different color chalk or marker.

6) Tell the students to write the correct sentence down.

7) Let the students ask you questions.

8) Repeat with the other sentences on the board.

9) If you have more vocabulary to do, then ask the students for more sentences. Write at least one sentence per word.

10) After you've finished all of the sentences, let students ask you if the sentences they wrote (but that you couldn't put on the board) were correct or not. Another option is that you can collect and correct their sentences, this takes some time though.

Do you have any suggestions or other ideas? Let everyone know and leave a comment! Thank you for your visit today!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 10 Succeeding in School

2010-04-07T19:12:00.006-10:00

Welcome English Students!

Today we are learning about succeeding in school! Do you want to succeed in school? Everyone wants to succeed in learning English, yes? Well, today, open your ESL textbook, The Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 10 and join your English (ESL) teacher Meylysa!

Page 10, Succeeding in School (Part 1 of 2)

Page 10, Succeeding in School (Part 2 of 2)

Page 10, Succeeding in School REVIEW

Try to practice saying the words. Listen to the lesson until you understand it! Do the review at least 1 time everyday until you remember the words!

When you are ready, answer these questions:
Do you want to succeed in school?
What grades do you want to get?
Do you have tests in school?
Do you like tests?
Do you participate in class?
Do you like to ask questions? Why or why not?

If you have questions, then ask your ESL teacher! Thank you for joining the class today!

You're English is AWESOME!!!

Teaching With Stories

2010-03-22T22:33:00.005-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers, Tutors and Esteemed Guests!

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a blog dedicated to both ESL teachers and ESL students! Your visit is much appreciated!

Today I wanted to introduce some techniques you can use to teach ESL students with stories.

Teaching Stories Method

1) Have the students watch you and listen as you read the story to them. Be sure that their books are closed and they cannot read the story, only listen to it.

2) Ask the students to rate themselves on how much they understood, either publicly or privately. You can also give them a quiz if you want.

3) Have the students open their books and read it while they listen to you.

4) You can ask them if they understand it better here as well.

5) Have the students read the story together with you.

6) Go back over the story and answer any questions students may have. Explain sections that are more difficult.

7) Have the students take turns around the room reading one sentence each.

8) Have the students pair up and read the story, taking turns switching back and forth reading one sentence each. Then have the students switch so they read the other sentences. Walk around and listen to the students' pronunciation and answer any of their questions.

9) End by repeating steps 1 and 2 and see how much your students improved!

Let me know if you do any awesome techniques when you teach stories!

Thanks for visiting ESL Teacher!

Your fellow ESL teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, pp. 28-19, Same and Different

2010-03-22T22:01:00.005-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to ESL TEACHER!

Today we are studying Same and Different. Open your English (ESL) textbook the Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Editionto pages 28-29 and follow along with your English (ESL) teacher Meylysa. Sometimes I like to be the same as other people, but sometimes I like to be different! How about you?

Practice the lesson. Read the story with your English (ESL) teacher. Listen to the story until you understand all of the words!

Thank you for being such an awesome student!

Your English (ESL) teacher,

Meylysa

pp. 28-29 Same and Different

pp. 28-29 Same and Different REVIEW

Answer questions 1 & 2 from the book in the comments section below!

You are getting so good at English!!!

Class Cohesion: How to Keep Everyone Together

2010-03-18T21:58:00.001-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and Tutors!

Welcome to ESL Teacher, a blog dedicated to improve the teaching and learning of ESL!

Today we are going to discuss how to ensure class cohesion. In other words, how do you get all of your students to focus and pay attention! I'm very excited to hear what other ESL teachers and ESL tutors have to say about this topic, as I'm always interested in learning new techniques.

See these videos for my techniques, and look below for more detailed discussion!

Class Cohesion: Part 1 of 2, Keeping Everyone Together

Class Cohesion: Part 2 of 2, Taking Breaks

If you find your class is not all together try these techniques:

Class Repetition
Have the class repeat what you are teaching, or what a student just said. Have the class repeat until everyone is repeating together.

As an example, when we do introductions, I have each student come to the front of the class and introduce themselves.

1) Each ESL Student takes turn going to the front of the classroom and says "Let me introduce myself. My name's Kim. I'm Korean. I've been in Hawaii for 3 years. I've been coming to the Drop-In Center for 1 year. I'm a housewife"
2) ESL Teacher has the class say "Good morning Kim".
3) ESL Teacher has the class repeat the greeting until everyone in the class is saying it.
4) Feel great knowing your students are learning each others' names, paying attention and saying nice things to each other!

Ask Your Students to Pay Attention
Get one or two students to stop talking amongst themselves by calling out their name and asking them to pay attention. If you use this technique too much, then you may want to examine your teaching style. It could be that your class needs more variety or the level of the classwork needs to be adjusted.

Vary Your Activities
Keep the class focused by changing up what you do and keeping them interested and on their toes.

As an example, in our class, after the introductions, sometimes I ask the students to pair up and ask each other questions. This changes up the dynamic from listening to the person in the front of the room, to actively practicing speaking with a fellow classmate.

1) ESL Teacher has the students write down the following questions: "What's your name? What's your nationality? How long have you been in Hawaii? How long have you been coming to the Drop-In Center? What do you do?"
2) The ESL teacher pairs up the ESL students with other ESL students who don't speak the same language, or who they haven't been paired up with before.
3) The ESL teacher asks the students ask each other the questions and answer the questions.
4) The ESL teacher changes up the student pairings and repeat.

Take Breaks
Proper rest is important to help the ESL teacher stay fresh, and the help the ESL students say alert and active. Also, your students are less likely to get up in the middle of your class to go to the bathroom if you've given them plenty of break time.

As an example, for a 3 hour class, you can take a break every hour for about 10 or 15 minutes. If the class is doing well, you can break in the middle, after an hour and a half, for about 15 minutes.

General Rule of thumb: break every 50 minutes for at least 10 minutes.

Hope this was helpful! Share your techniques in the comments section below! We would really appreciate it =)

Your Fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 27 Shopping

2010-03-18T20:28:00.001-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Today we are learning words for shopping. Do you like to shop? I like to shop for food and for gifts! Open your Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition to page 27. Read the top right corner - "Shopping" - with your English (ESL) teacher Meylysa. Enjoy the lesson! Listen, repeat the words and practice often. Questions? Go and ask! Just scroll (go) to the bottom of this post (webpage) and leave a comment.

Tell me what you like to shop for in English!

Your English (ESL) teacher,

Meylysa

Page 27, Shopping, Part 1 of 2

Page 27, Shopping, Part 2 of 2

Page 27, Shopping, Review

You have wonderful English!

Student Schedule

2010-03-13T23:16:00.047-10:00

Using Dictation of Questions to Teach English

2010-03-06T20:02:00.000-10:00

Hello Fellow ESL Teachers and Tutors,

Thank you for coming to ESL Teacher today! We are going to discuss using dictation to improve students listening comprehension, writing and speaking.

Dictating questions that include the vocabulary and grammar that you are teaching on a regular basis will give your students a way to measure their progress. It helps them understand what they need to improve on and what words they need to practice writing when them go home. In addition, it gives students a chance to see if they can understand the English they just covered, even if they do not have the book to use as a crutch.

The Method

1) Choose a list of 3-8 appropriate questions. The should incorporate the vocabulary and the grammar that you are covering in class.

For example:
1) What time is it now?
2) What time do you wake up on weekdays?
3) What is your favorite time of day?

Use less questions for beginners, and more questions for intermediates.

2) Tell your students to take out paper, pen/pencil and to number their paper. Tell them to write the questions that you say/dictate.

3) Read the questions. Always read the question at normal speed first. Then, depending on your level of students, you may only read it one more time at regular speed (advanced). Or you may read it a couple of times slower, and then again regular speed (intermediate). Or you may read it slowly many more times, ending with the question at regular speed (beginners)
DO NOT SPELL OUT THE WORDS OR HELP THE STUDENTS WRITE THE WORDS! It's ok if they don't write anything, or if they make mistakes. This is their opportunity to measure their own abilities.

4) Ask the students what the questions were, one at a time, and write them as they tell you the question they wrote down. This allows them to be involved, show off their talents if they did well, and keeps the students alert and involved in the class. It also allows you to hear any common mistakes that the students make, that you can then focus on and help them correct.

5) Have the class read the questions with you in unison.

6) Have the class ask you the questions, and answer them. Write your answers to the questions on the board next to the appropriate question. Your answers will be the model for the students when they answer the questions themselves.

7) Pair up students and have them ask each other the questions. Walk around and listen to the pairs. Are they asking the questions correctly? Are they answering the questions correctly? Help correct their grammar and pronunciation.

8) Have the class close their notebooks, then look at you and say the questions in unison. See if they can say them from memory. If need be, break the question into smaller parts.

9) Congratulate your students for their hard work! They practiced listening, writing and speaking all in one exercise!

Using Scripted Conversations to Teach English

2010-03-06T18:37:00.000-10:00

Hello fellow aspiring ESL Teachers and Tutors,

Thank you for visiting ESL Teacher today! We are going to focus on a technique for teaching students English sentences, memorizing and play acting scripted conversations.

In the video below, I use the example conversations that are in the Oxford Picture Dictionary Teacher's Book. However, you can make up your own conversations, or get them from other sources as well. It is always good to supplement vocabulary lessons by using new words in useful and common sentences and conversation structures:

The Method

1) Find an appropriate conversation - If your students are beginners, you would use only 2 or 3 sentence conversations. If they are more advanced, then you add more sentences. Be sure the conversation incorporates the vocabulary and the grammar that you are teaching in your class that day.

Here's an example:
A: Excuse me, but do you have the time?
B: Yes, it's half past 2. (3:30 / quarter to / noon)
A: Thanks!

2) Write the conversation on the board with the A's and B's, or with some other tag showing that this is a conversation. You could use names instead of A and B, Jane and John, etc. Also write any variations (in the above example, that would be using different times).

3) Perform the conversation for your class at least 2 times. Then have the class say the conversation with you, again at least 2 times.

4) Pair up the students and have them practice the conversation. Have them switch roles and memorize both parts.

5) Erase the board, and have the students come up and perform the conversation from memory. Be sure that the whole class claps when they finish.

6) If they didn't do well, have them practice again and call them up again. If only one pair didn't do well, have that pair come up and try again.

Have fun with your class and be happy that they are practicing practical and real English conversations. Thank you for reading this post, and feel free to leave any comments or other techniques that you would like to share.

Your fellow ESL Teacher,

Meylysa

Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, p. 26 Money

2010-03-06T15:17:00.000-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Today we are learning about money. We are learning about American (United States) coins and bills (paper money). Open your textbook, the Oxford Picture Dictionary, 2nd Edition, to page 26. Listen and practice saying the words with your English (ESL) Teacher, Meylysa. Try to practice using real money. Have fun and try to say prices in English!

Remember, practice makes perfect. Your English is awesome!

Keep up the good work (Be a good student everyday)!

Your English (ESL) teacher,

Meylysa

Page 26, Money, Part 1 of 2

Page 26, Money, Part 2 of 2

Page 26, Money, Review

Money Quiz 1

Money Quiz 2

Money Quiz 3

Answers to Quiz 1

1) $5.00
2) $13.28
3) $7.50
4) $8.95
5) $9.99
6) $167.13

Answers to Quiz 2

1) $1.25 (5 quarters)
2) $0.30 (3 dimes)
3) $0.45 (5 nickels and 2 dimes)
4) $0.50 (a half dollar)
5) $1.16 (six pennies, 4 quarters and 2 nickels)
6) $0.67 (3 nickels, 2 dimes and 2 quarters)
7) $1.00 (1 dollar coin)
8) $0.03 (3 pennies)
9) $0.93 (3 quarters, 3 nickels and 3 pennies)
10) $1.65 (1 dollar coin, 2 quarters and 3 nickels)

Answers to Quiz 3

1) Change for $20 bill:
a. 3 x $5 bills
b. 5 x $1 bills
c. 4 x $5 bills
d. 1 x $10 bill and 10 x $1 bills
e. 20 x $1 bills
f. 2 x $10 bills
g. 1 x $10 cill and 2 x $5 bills
h. 1 x $10 bill and 1 x $5 bill and 5 x $1 dollar bills

2) Change for $1 bill:
a. 4 quarters
b. 2 half dollars
c. 10 dimes
d. 20 nickels
e. 100 pennies
f. 2 quarters and 5 dimes
g. 5 nickels and 3 quarters
h. 25 pennies and 3 quarters
i. and many more...

3) Change for $100:
a. 5 x $20 bills
b. 10 x $10 bills
c. 4 x $20 bills and 1 x $10 bill and 1 x $5 bill and 5 x $1 bills
d. 20 x $5 bills
e. and many more...

4) Change for $50:
a. 2 x $20 bills and 1 x $10 bill
b. 5 x $10 bills
c. 1 x $20 bill and 2 x $5 bills and 20 x $1 bills
d. and many more...

5) Change for a quarter:
a. 5 x nickels
b. 2 x dimes and 1 x nickel
c. 25 x pennies
d. and many more...

Ask an English (ESL) Teacher!

2010-03-04T00:03:00.000-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Do you have a question? Are you having problems writing a sentence? Don't understand how to use a word? Need help in your study plan?

This post is here to help! In the comments section below, ask your question! An English (ESL) teacher will offer advice to help you!

Thank you and keep up your studies! I know your English is great!!!

Your English (ESL) Teacher,

Meylysa

Tsunami English (ESL) Lesson and the Tsunami Warning of February 27, 2010

2010-02-28T00:33:00.000-10:00

Hello English (ESL) Students!

Welcome to class today. My name is Meylysa and I am your ESL teacher. Today we are learning about Tsunami.

Tsunami are large waves that travel long distances. They are caused by earthquakes, landslides, or anything that moves a lot of ocean water. Today in Hawaii, we had a Tsunami Warning (Feb 27, 2010). A Tsunami warning is when the government tells everyone that a Tsunami is coming. They tell everyone to leave the water and the beaches and go to higher ground. When the government tells everyone to leave, this is called an evacuation (a noun). The government evacuates (verb) the people during a Tsunami warning.

During a Tsunami warning, there are loud sirens (horns, sounds). When you hear the loud sirens, you turn on the tv or radio and listen to the news. The news will tell you what to do. The sirens will sound when there is danger, and people must turn on tv or radio to find out what to do.

To prepare for a Tsunami, have water, food, warm clothes, flashlight, medicine, first aid kit, phone and charger, and a battery operated radio. Do not drive unless you have to evacuate. Fill your car with gas if you need to drive. Do not use the phone unless you need to call for help. Stay safe and listen to the authorities (government).

Be safe and I hope this English lesson helped you! I went with my boyfriend Anthony Watson to Diamond Head Road in Honolulu Hawaii today to see the Tsunami from high ground. We had no school and Anthony's work was closed too. The beaches were closed, and so were many stores, restaurants and business. Lucky for everyone, there was no Tsunami, and Anthony did go to work tonight! Here is our video:

Keep practicing your English and remember these words: Tsunami, Tsunami Warning, Evacuation and Evacuate, Siren, Authorities

For more information on Tsunamis from the United States government, go to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency).

Your English (ESL) teacher,

Meylysa