One of the most important standards in teaching English as a second language is oral communication. We achieve this standard by providing our students with situations in which they can interact and express themselves effectively and with confidence. During classtime students will engage in various activities that will help them to exercise pronunciation and communication skills. Some activities include but are not limited to discussions, interviews, dramatizations, singing, reciting poetry.
Show and Tell
Students will engage in show and tell activities where, at the request of the teacher, they will bring an item from home and will share with the class why they chose that particular item, where they got it, and other relevant information. This presentation is informal and should employ the use of normal everyday language. Duration is from 2-4 minutes.
Oral Presentation
Once per semester students will give an oral presentation on a topic selected by the teacher. This type of presentation is more formal than show and tells. The teacher will handout an evaluation sheet, to help students prepare. Duration is about 5-10 minutes.
Poetry Recital
A poetry recital in the classroom can expand students’ language experiences while teaching listening and speaking skills. Although reciting poetry will be part of regular class schedule, once a semester students will be required to recite a poem of their choosing from memory. Poems should be no shorter than 8 lines.
Spelling Bee
A spelling bee is a competition where students are asked to spell English words. Through out the year we will be preparing for the school competition in March. A list of words will be given at the beginning of each new reading selection. Once a month all students will be required to participate in their group’s ”spelling bee”. This will take place during their regular class schedule.
Dramatizations, Simulations and Song
During the school year students will be required to prepare and present skits, songs or dramatizations that enhance story themes. This type of activity is collaborative work organized in the classroom.
