Job Discussion Forums

[Voldermort]

I just can't believe the way things are going at my school this year. After all the nonsense I have endured in the past I am finally working for a school who don't merely treat me like a clown.

I was asked by one of the Chinese English teachers if I could possibly plan my lessons around the textbook, at the same time teaching the listening and speaking exercises from the book. Well most of you would know that the textbook is as useful as a chocolate fireguard in China. We are often simply given the book and told to go teach complete with teaching materials consisting of a worn down stick of chalk that was already remoulded from the chalkdust on the floor.

Anyway, I politely pointed out some of the problems faced by the clowns in China, as I have done countless times in previous schools to no avail. But what do you know, less than an hour later I was presented with copies of all the audio tapes relevent to the course, and unlimited access to the schools audio lab. A big tick in my book.

Now I have use of this audio lab where the students can sit with their headphones on listening or watching whatever I choose. The problem is, I have grown accustomed to using my worn down stick of floor scrapings and have no idea how I can take advantage of this audio room.

I can see the benefits. The students would be forced to listen, all those distractions would be taken away from them, and it would be far more difficult for them to pass the time talking about the latest computer game at the back of the class.

I am open to suggestions on this one. Also has anybody come across any suitable audio material?

[Spiderman Too]

Here's a good place to start:- http://www.eslpod.com/scripts.html

It has over 100 downloadable mp3 files containing conversations and commentaries covering a wide range of daily life matters; job layoffs, meeting an old friends, weddings, etc.

The speech is clear and not too fast.

Listening to these mp3 files can provide students with 2 benefits; improve their listening skills and promote discussion about the issue.

Excerpts from movies are also useful; 10 or so minutes of carefully selected footage chosen for the double benefit of improving listening skills and promoting discussion about issues.

The movie Garfield, for example, offers English learners exposure to contemporary, non-vulgar, non-offensive English language use.

[kev7161]

The only thing I remember from an audio lab (waaaayyyy back in my high school days) is the teacher would have her own headphones on while we students were listening and repeating to the tape. She could listen in on anyone at random and then flip a switch and correct our mispronunciation (or, in the case of some students, tell them to get busy and practice). We didn't do this everyday, mind you, maybe once a week or sometimes even less often.

Good for you though. It's encouraging to read your story.

[Yu]

I encourage my students to listen to npr.org or wkar.org. Both are radio stations that have news. It is all avalaible on line. It is not possible (at least I cant figure out how to) transfer the files onto a CD.

[Spiderman Too]

[Yu]

[kev7161]

Ah, ah, ah - - never make assumptions because, well you know. I am native English - - I studied Spanish in high school (and later in college - - why I'm not in a Spanish-speaking country is beyond me!)

[Plan B]

[InTime]

Cooperative INFO-sourcing like this is what this Forum is well suited for!
Other suggestions (for advanced learners):

www.radioproject.org It has unscripted conversations on current events. Many of the older shows---in the Archives section---have transcripts. Can be quite useful for promoting Listening Comprehension.

www.lauralee.com