Teaching English as a Second Language(ESL)

When teaching ESL it is important that the students feel supported. As teachers begin to plan, they need to think back to when they were a student trying to learn a second language. How did it feel? Was it difficult? Was it nerve-wracking? Did students speak in class or ask many questions? Summerbridge students will feel a lot like you did in your language class. When planning their classes, Summerbridge staff should draw upon their experiences and make an effort to understand how the students will feel to find the most supportive way of motivating them.

Every class at Summerbridge will challenge the students' English ability - the secret is making that challenge exciting.

• Speaking & Listening - Students love to talk. Place students in situations where it is fun for them to communicate in English: interviews, discussions, skits, debates, and role plays are all excellent ways to challenge students.
  

• Reading & Vocabulary - Prepare interesting texts in advance and use every chance you get to introduce new vocabulary in different ways: base dramas on a single word, dance the definition; decorate the entire class with one weeks worth of words.
  

• Writing & Grammar - Ignite a passion in students to express themselves in writing: keep a journal, write plays, eavesdrop on a conversation and write it down.