Paraphrasing is an Essential Conversation Skill!
July 10, 2014
Chimayo Press
If English students can accurately paraphrase a reading, a radio segment, or a verbal statement, they can actively participate in common conversations and classroom discussions.…
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Volume Matters – Even in Personal Conversations
July 2, 2014
Chimayo Press
Why volume matters, especially in difficult student-teacher conferences “Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.” ―Rollo May (1909-1994) American author…
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Creating Simple ESL Lesson Plans Around Top Ten Lists for Advanced English Classes
July 1, 2014
Chimayo Press
Advanced ESL/EFL classes benefit from making top ten lists “Share your knowledge. It’s a way to achieve immortality.” ―Tenzin Gyatso (1950-) 14th Dalai Lama Americans…
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Skype Makes Tutoring English with Clients Across the Globe Easy and Comfortable
June 16, 2014
Chimayo Press
Explore the benefits of using Skype to tutor English learners around the world. “A conversation can be made easy. Just ask a question and then…
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Don’t Let Perfectionism Silence You!
August 27, 2012
Chimayo Press
Some English students make learning English even more difficult by expecting themselves to speak “perfect”, with “no accent” just like ” a real native English…
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Conversation Tip #9: Ask Clarifying Questions!
September 20, 2010
Chimayo Press
What is a clarifying question? What do you mean? Can you be more specific? Can you give us some examples? What do you exactly mean?…
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Library ESL Conversation Clubs Grow
June 16, 2010
Chimayo Press
Where can immigrants go to practice their English speaking skills in a relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere? How can American libraries introduce their wonderful resources to new…
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Conversation Tip 5: What has pleasantly surprised you today?
November 8, 2009
Chimayo Press
What has pleasantly surprised you today? English teachers can use this question as a writing cue, during student-teacher conferences, or with co-workers. Students, especially at…
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Reading Pleasures and Conversation Starters
September 11, 2009
Chimayo Press
Teachers, especially English teachers, love to talk about their summer reading. Reading remains a cheap pleasure and an excellent conversation starter. Can you recommend a…
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Conversation Tip #4: Ask Questions and Take Turns
September 5, 2009
Chimayo Press
Asking follow up question can provide clarity and allow our conversation partners to elaborate on details. Use these simple phrases to go beyond hello and…
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