5 ways to support students with dyslexia

In this blog post, written for Pearson back in 2019 (reposted in March 2023) I talk about supporting learners with dyslexia. While it’s not a language teacher’s role to diagnose specific learning needs, it is important for us to monitor our young learner students’ progress and have some understanding of dyslexia so can support our […]
The art of storytelling in the YL classroom

In this blog written for Pearson, I’ll be talking about storytelling; why storytelling is so powerful, what the benefits are for learners and how you can use storytelling with your learners in the YL classroom. Since this blog is no longer ‘live’ here’s a link to web archive or you can simple read what I […]
How to Implement Guided Reading into the primary Classroom

Reading isn’t easy… and learning to read is even harder! We often forget the effort it took us to start reading fluently. In this I talk about some practical tips in implementing Guided Reading into the primary classroom using “Connect and Talk about Texts” resources from Macmillan to show you some examples.
Preparing Young Learners for Exams

I think this was my first webinar ever… in 2015 way before training online was ‘normal’! In this interactive session for Macmillan Education I explore some of the key principles that underpin effective assessment and looks at how we can help young learners consolidate useful language in a fun way. Not only to improve their […]
Music and language – Songs to teach past simple
If you are looking for some songs perfect for teaching past simple tense in English, check this out. All of the songs are relatively new and popular and would especially be suitable for teaching teenagers. Happy grammaring!
Hip-hop in the classroom… bring it!
There are many reasons why ELT teachers should consider using hip-hop in the classrooms, if you are not convinced yet check out the site below to get some ideas on how you can use hip hop in class. Happy teaching!
Rita Pierson: Every kid needs a champion
Some days you might just wonder why you are teaching as they don’t seem to learn what you teach them anyway! Just remember, you make a difference and every student deserves to be given an opportunity in life and sometimes you are the only one who can give them that opportunity. YOU are their champion…, […]
Pronunciation – The Oxford 3000
An easy way for your learners to check their knowledge and pronunciation of 3000 essential keywords in English.
Great photo resource for teachers to use and contribute to
A great resource bank full of images for you to use in class. Pictures are valuable triggers for discussions, fluency writing, storytelling and language practice activities. So if you need a warmer for tomorrow’s class, take your pick – click on the pic!
Food Waste – A Story of Excess
Food waste. It’s shocking to know how much food gets wasted and what this actually means for the world we live in. A powerful short movie which raises awareness of the issue as well provides food for thought in your classroom. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwVuz0UJl2A
