Listening to ESOL learners and working with their words

What do we do when students’ conversations take a lesson ‘off plan’? When their discussions and stories are suddenly driving the subject matter? These unpredictable moments can often be the most memorable and meaningful in a lesson but how can we work with the language that is emerging?

ESOL teachers at Tower Hamlets College recorded and transcribed student-led classroom discussions to take a closer look at what goes on. In this workshop you will get to grips with some real classroom data and consider teaching methods that work with and celebrate this student spontaneity.

The workshop is led by Richard Gallen, currently an ESOL teacher at Tower Hamlets College. Previously he worked as an EFL teacher in London and abroad. For the past 2 years he has been involved in classroom research projects, which have investigated how teachers and students can leverage classroom conversations for language learning.

The session is suitable for any tutors or volunteers regardless of experience and working with learners at any level.

Places cost £5 (£7 for tutors not living or teaching in Newham). Any surplus will go to Newham ESOL Exchange.