TESOL Basics
What does TESOL stand for?
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
What is ethnocentrism?
The belief that one’s own culture is superior to others.
What is skimming?
Reading quickly to get the main idea/the gist.
What is a "cohesive device" in writing?
Words or phrases that link ideas in writing (e.g., however, therefore).
What’s a common classroom icebreaker for language learners?
Ex/ “Two Truths and a Lie.”
What are the four skills ESL teachers focus on?
Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Listening.
Give an example of a cultural misunderstanding in a classroom.
Direct vs. indirect communication; for example, in some cultures, students may not ask questions as directly.
What is scanning in reading?
Looking for specific information in a text.
What is peer review in writing?
Students give feedback on each other’s work.
What’s one tip for creating a fun classroom environment?
Using games and interactive activities.
What’s the difference between TESOL and TEFL?
TESOL is broader and can be applied in both English-speaking and non-English-speaking countries, while TEFL is typically for teaching in non-English-speaking countries.
In high-context cultures, how is communication often conveyed?
Through non-verbal cues and indirect communication.
What’s a good ESL activity to help students develop fluency in reading?
Extensive reading of graded readers (easier books).
What is a writing prompt?
A question or statement that gives students a topic to write about.
Name one game that can help students practice vocabulary.
Pictionary or Taboo.
What’s one common challenge ESL students face?
Ex/ Pronunciation or understanding idiomatic expressions.
What cultural difference might cause confusion when giving feedback to students?
Ex/ In some cultures, direct feedback is considered rude, while in others, it’s valued for improvement.
What is a key difference between intensive and extensive reading?
Intensive reading focuses on detailed understanding, while extensive reading focuses on reading for general meaning and fluency.
What’s one method to help ESL students improve their writing fluency?
Free writing for a set time without worrying about grammar or spelling.
What’s an easy way to add humor to a language lesson?
Using silly sentences or creative storytelling.