With so much attention on understanding fast speech in movies, TV shows, and other authentic sources, there’s an area of listening comprehension that may not receive the attention it deserves: the speech of language learners. Students tend to focus heavily on listening to native speakers and non-natives with advanced proficiency. As a result, they may…
Tag: paraphrase
Practice with Paraphrasing
Students learn to paraphrase for different reasons. In the academic world, students must avoid plagiarism, so to refer to a key idea in a written text they have two choices: include a quote or restate it. In the ESL classroom, we regularly paraphrase to make unfamiliar vocabulary understood. We offer explanations such as, “If you…
Reflecting on How We Ask Students to Read
Recent consultations on lesson planning have encouraged me to reflect on all the ways we can use texts in the classroom. I’ve written in the past on ways to read with students, from silent reading to choral reading. I’ve also suggested activities to help teach text organization and suprasegmentals. I’d like to offer some additional…
Puzzling Paraphrases: A whole language activity for upper level students
Much classroom activity can be based on a lengthy quote that has depth. We come across such thought-provoking quotes in various places – in a magazine, during a political speech, on the radio, etc. The next time you encounter one, make note of it. Later find a copy to share with a group of upper level…
Playful Paraphrasing with a Point
Students will readily try an exercise if they understand its value, are clear about the task, and have enough support to complete all the steps. Be sure to explain the reason(s) behind a paraphrasing task. Do you wish to offer more practice with target vocabulary? Do you want to test students’ ability to manipulate grammar…
