How Can Limited Proficiency in English or a Foreign Language be Managed Using a Communicative Approach?

Teachers and Learners Alike Have Limited English Proficiency
All of us, teachers and learners alike have “limited English language knowledge” or Limited English Proficiency (LEP) to some degree. Even I am still “learning the English language”, so to speak. But in the case of language learners in the early stages of skills acquisition, critical factors can emerge.

So, I definitely think that in using ANY language teaching-learning approach, the more it’s adapted to the inclusion of “Whole Language” (ref. Rubin) the more effective the teaching and learning scenario can be. Language is the sum of many diverse and integral “parts” which must be utilized together in order to form “comprehensible input” (Krashen-Terrell, 1984) as well as comprehensible output or discourse to be understood and effective.

An Important Key to Consider
An important key to managing LEP foreign language learners is in teaching and learning grammar and lexis in context, just as a child does with their first language (L1), but at a more accelerated level and pace available to teen and adult EFL learners, for example. Teach grammar, lexis and function concurrently, or in tandem and in context, and you’ll manage quite nicely with your learners. They’ll progress in a way that’s noticeable for them, which will motivate them as well.

Motivated English language Learners
Motivated learners, especially LEP learners, acquire foreign language skills far better, faster and more easily than those who are not. With the use of whole language aspects elemented into the language learning and acquisition process, students don’t just see disconnected language elements like vocabulary lists, grammar, reading and writing lessons, but rather digest English or other foreign languages as whole, communicative sessions which can be used in a number of ways at different times, under different circumstances.

The written or spoken sentence, “I’d like some water, please” is not simply the sum elements of vocabulary plus grammar and structure. But in fact is a whole language lexical context which can be morphed and modified in numerous ways to add, change or alter the register of its meaning.



Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Why Did You Choose to Become an English as a Foreign Language Teacher?

Why, How and When
Why, how and when did you choose to be an English language teacher? When this question came up recently during an online interview with Monica Haydee Di Santi, I had to seriously reflect, not on what to answer, but on how much to exclude. My path into English teaching wasn’t exactly as direct as many of my other colleagues. For each of us, the story and path into the field of teaching English as a foreign or second language is a bit different. Sometimes it’s really a lot different. So briefly, here’s what happened to me.

Studying Mechanical Engineering
When I was at the university studying Mechanical Engineering and technical design, there were at lot of my classmates who were from foreign countries like Ghana, Cameroon and Liberia in Africa, in particular. They were constantly asking me questions on English language vocabulary, idioms, expressions and usage. It wasn’t too long before I developed a keen interest in advancing my own skills and abilities as a native speaker of English, so it actually became my second major giving me Engineering and English degrees.

Hubble Telescope image: http://www.khulsey.com/

Working for NASA
First, I worked as an electro-mechanical and avionics designer for NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) for a number of years working on the Hubble Telescope (fine guidance simulators) and Voyager 2 spacecraft (RTG unit) among others. Included in this stint were tenures as a technical design consultant with other high-tech and aerodynamics companies as well.

The CELTA
Later I began to teach EFL classes to foreign immigrants part-time, evenings and weekends in state government funded programs. One of my first classes was a group of Chinese immigrants who had been in the U.S. for less than a week. I quickly found out I needed more training. After completing a CELTA EFL training course (at that time a TEFL Certificate from the Royal Society of Arts) and TBE (Teaching Business English) certifications and then furthering my university education to post-graduate levels in Education and ELT at Harvard in Boston, UC in San Francisco and OHC in Barcelona, Spain, I took a sabbatical from NASA and began working abroad teaching English at universities.

No Regrets
That was 15 years ago now and I’ve never regretted the decision to teach English. Through teaching, education, travel and related experiences in my own foreign language learning, I’ve grown and matured as an English language teaching professional. Teaching English has provided me with the opportunity to travel extensively by visiting or living in 22 countries world wide. So the experience overall has enriched my life to an almost untold degree.

A Special Surprise
Now, how about you? How did YOU become an English teacher? E-mail me with your story in brief or post it in comments. The most interesting stories will receive a special surprise.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

How Can Teachers Use Music in an EFL Class and Not Lose Group Control?

It’s Not Just Teenagers Who Love Music
This is an excellent question in addition to being a somewhat “HOT” topic. It’s not just teenagers who love music either, but almost any language learner group or profile will be highly impacted by the use of music in the EFL / ESL and foreign language learning classroom. Use music with teens to lower their “Affective Filters” (Krashen-Terrell, 1984), get and hold their attention. But don’t restrict the use of music to just “sing-alongs”, lip-sync or “Karaoke” type activities.

Photo: Stephen D. Krashen

A Critical Key
One critical key here, in my opinion, is to use music in a variety of other ways with teens (and other learner profiles).

In the EFL / ESL and foreign language learning classroom teachers can use music to:

• control length of activities
• set the mood and tone of the class
• as background to the class environment
• help to calm unruly learners
• stimulate fast-paced EFL practice activities

An additional point is to exercise some discretion in the selection of music types, artists and songs to be used. Not all music forms selected by or listened to on the part of teens, for example, are suitable classroom use choices.

EFL Teachers Can Exercise More Control
Since we know that music alters the active state of the brain’s waves, EFL and other foreign language teachers can exercise more control over their EFL / ESL classrooms and learners with well-thought-out use of different types of music at different times. I went into this in much greater detail in a series of articles published on using music in the English or foreign language learning classroom.

The link to the 7-article series on using music in the EFL / ESL classroom starts at: http://bettereflteacher.blogspot.com/2007/12/music-sound-and-brainwave-activity.html

We’ll continue to discuss applications for the use of music in the EFL /ESL ad foreign language learning classrooms in upcoming article posts.



Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Which People or Trends in English Language Learning Have Most Influenced Your Way of Teaching?

The Theory of Multiple Intelligences
A broad spectrum of educational innovations, trends, research papers, and other TEFL-related events have inspired me to make tweaks or small adjustments to my teaching in some way. However, the person and approach which has most influenced me is psychology professor Howard Gardner, PhD (in photo) and his developing theory of Multiple Intelligences (MITs). Initially, I was exposed to this theory while attending a summer session at Harvard University in Boston, MA. Identifying learner strengths and weaknesses, then applying them to the EFL / ESL classroom was so intriguing and successful for me that it rooted itself into my EFL teaching from then on.

MITs Research Still Ongoing
Tracing its origins from the work of Dr. Marion Diamond of UCLA in the development of the cerebral cortex, research into the multiple intelligences is still ongoing. Since the initial eight intelligences were published in academic papers, presented in discourses and presentations, and research journals in the field, two more intelligences have been validated. The Logical-Mathematical, Musical-Rhythmic, Verbal-Linguistic, Visual-Spatial, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Naturalist, Intra-personal and Inter-personal intelligences have now been supplemented. Emotional Intelligence and Spiritual Intelligence are now commonly accepted and integrated into curriculum planning, lessons, class activity rosters and teacher training sessions.

Application of the MITs in the EFL Classroom
Since then, I’ve given a number of presentations and done action research projects to expand and deepen its use in my approach to teaching. Even one of my post-grad thesis research projects and subsequent papers was on the application of the MITs in the EFL classroom. During that project, I observed and recorded what activities were used in the classes of a group of EFL teachers as compared to an analysis of their students’ learning strengths and weaknesses. The results clearly showed why some learners had problems and others progressed.

It was and still is, a true eye-opener for me.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Learning a Foreign Language Faster: Does Using the Internet Help Students?

The Internet Has Many Useful Aspects
Yes in fact, the internet has many useful aspects in English and foreign language teaching or learning. It’s a fine resource for those teachers and learners who like technology. So it definitely can help students to learn a foreign language faster when used properly and with discretion. Whether the internet is a viable option will depend a lot on the type of connection available to you, its reliability and your computer equipment and software itself.


Comic source: http://weblogs.mozillazine.org/gerv/archives/2007/images/internet_dog.jpg

There is an introductory 3-part article of mine on this topic entitled “Effective Ways to Use the Internet for Learning English or a Foreign Language”. Here I give an overview of getting starting in foreign language learning on the world wide web. A great variety of language and other courses, teaching and learning aids, and tutorials are available online in scores if not hundreds of languages. There are also radio broadcasts, news, current events, sports, weather, documentary and cultural events regularly placed on the internet in multi-media formats, with a large number of these having free access.

Some EFL Teachers Have Opted-out of Using Technology
Actually though, there are quite a number of English and foreign language teachers who are “techno-phobes”, that is, those who have opted-out of using technology or the world wide web. The internet scares or repels them for any number of reasons, some of them quite valid, so they stay away from it. This is often a shame, since there is so much good information to be had online for little or frequently, no cost.

Overcoming Initial Fears
For “non-techies” and the technologically-challenged, I usually recommend an introductory course on using the worldwide web for teachers that includes word processing, e-mail basis, power point, uploading and downloading files and information along with a few other PC-use basics. Then they can try an online English grammar course or a short web quest. Once over their initial “fears” of using computers and the internet, many former “techno-phobes” come to grips with dealings online. This is more often than not to their ultimate benefit.

Language Learners Use Portable Digital Devices of All Kinds
Although I teach and use the internet extensively, there are many approaches to TEFL which do not. As technology advances and more and more of our learners use portable digital devices of all kinds as an every-day occurrence, we as ELT and foreign language teaching professionals need to “keep up” as it were, with what learners can use in their quests for competitive knowledge and skills. After all, it’s just another way of reaching our learners by “lowering their Affective Filters”.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

English Language Teachers: Seven Common Tropical Diseases You Need to Know

One Experience You Can Well Do Without

Have you relocated to a tropical foreign country to teach English as a foreign language? What ever may be your reason for foreign travel, you are bound to meet new friends, try new foods, use a foreign language and have new experiences. One experience you can well do without however, is the loss of your health by contracting one of these seven common tropical diseases. Some are inconvenient and uncomfortable. Some are serious, but treatable and others can be fatal.


Here Are Seven Tropical Diseases You Should Know About

• Malaria
Despite advances in vaccinations and treatment of this centuries-old malady, Malaria still continues to take the lives of thousands each year in Africa, Asia and South America.

• Yellow Fever
A mosquito or other blood-sucking insect transmitted disease, Yellow Fever should be treated as soon as possible. It can be fatal in a fairly short period of time if left untreated.

• Cholera
Primarily transmitted by means of polluted or contaminated drinking water, there are, in fact, a few other ways of contracting this potentially fatal disease.

• Giardiasis
Although far from being fatal, this parasitic infection is uncomfortable and inconvenient as you’ll spend much of your day and night in the toilet or a foreign hospital emergency room.

• Leptospirosis
Most commonly transmitted by flea, and sometimes rat or other rodent bites, Leptospirosis is not often heard of in many “developed” countries. Nonetheless there are occasional outbreaks in a number of countries.

• Leishmaniasis
If you hike in the rain forests of Asia or South America, you can be exposed to this ameba-based infection which is very difficult to treat and even more so to cure.

• Rabies (Hypochondria)
Rabies, also known as hypochondria, is most commonly transmitted through a bite from an infected rodent, mammal or other animal. Dogs, cats, bats, raccoons and other small animals are all known to have transmitted this potentially fatal disease.

An Ounce of Prevention

Any time you travel, “an ounce of prevention can be worth far more than a pound of cure”, as the old saying goes. Use exceptional personal hygiene. Have up-to-date vaccinations as required. Avoid wearing dark colors which attract mosquitoes and heat-seeking insects. Don’t sleep scantily-clothed outdoors, especially at night. Use insect repellent when advisable. Drink only treated or commercially bottled water. And be scrupulous in what you eat or consume. Although this still won’t guarantee that you’ll escape health problems, it will aid in greatly reducing your risk of contracting these and many other communicable diseases.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

More Useful Websites for English as a Foreign Language Teachers

In a previous article post we began with some websites for English as a foreign language teachers who may be short on funds and TEFL resources. Here I’d like to continue with a few more personally-selected websites I think you might benefit from.


• www.tefl.com
One of THE premiere EFL teaching job sites online, it will take you a couple of days to input all your information into their database. Once you do however, you’re set and can apply for any ELT-related job anywhere in the world with just a few mouse clicks. You can create and save or update your information quickly and easily at any time too.

• ESL base
Another English as a second or foreign language site where I’ve posted articles and read informative ones on ELT for quite some time now. They have a forum, an interesting selection of features and are well worth a look while you’re browsing for ideas and information. There are jobs, English courses and EFL teaching and learning resources.

• Grammar Advisor
If you’re in the least bit shakey or flakey with your English language grammar, then you would do well to check out this site for English grammar. Not only is the site interactive, but has voice and sound as well so you get to hear spoken versions of grammar in context in addition to reading and grammar lessons.

• Daily Writing Tip
Not exactly a site for “newbies” or the faint of heart, grammarians post this site with in-depth explanations and examples of quite a number of lower-frequency, but interesting and informative English vocabulary points. Origins of words, definitions and contexts for use of lexical elements such as reduplicatives and homographs along with a “word of the day” like avatar, zeitgeist and conundrum, are trademarks of this site.

• http://www.teacherslessonplan.net/
This site has some interesting lesson plans for English teachers, videos, photos and exercises worth a look. You can copy and use the material as is, or adapt it for use with your learners as need be.

Billions of Websites Online

Certainly, as we’ve talked about before, with billions of websites online, there are a multitude of available, blogs, articles, posts, forums and other resources for English language teachers from which to choose. We’ve started a concise list here which will continue to grow on a weekly or monthly basis. Please remember that if you have a favorite site or online resource you’d like to share, please post it in the comments section to help your fellow EFL teachers no matter what country they surf the internet from.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Useful Websites for English as a Foreign Language Teachers

Few, Limited or No Resources for English Language Teaching
Where to go for up-to-date, relevant English as a foreign language information and resources is a constant concern for many ELT professionals around the world. Some countries may have few, limited or no resources for English language teaching. Budgets may be tight or even non-existent. So what’s the enterprising EFL teacher to do? Check into the internet, that’s what. But with billions of pages all vying for our attention, how can you choose the best, most informative places to go? Well, here’s a starter list of useful websites for English as a foreign language teachers.

Here are Some Useful Websites for English as a Foreign Language Teachers

• http://www.seriousteachers.com/
If you want to get an English as a foreign language teaching job abroad FAST – then register here and start packing. Once you have your CV, diplomas and certificates uploaded to their free site and submitted you’ll start getting offers as soon as the same day. You can search hundreds of jobs in dozens of countries and apply for positions with a single mouse click.

• www.quia.com
Looking for ideas for your English or other foreign language classes? How about more than 100 free activities online for your EFL learners? Want to host a web quest, class sessions or exam online? It’s all here at this premiere teaching website. There is a free section to try out. Full access is a nominal, affordable fee per year.

• www.puzzlemaker.com
This is my favorite go-to site for creating my own games and puzzles online. It’s free (my favorite price for ELT materials) and you can copy and save puzzles to print out and use later or to make copies for the learners.

• One Stop English
A useful site for both EFL teachers and language learners alike, this is another good site from my list. There are activities, games and materials for English language teachers which will serve for learners of practically any level.

• Dave’s ESL Café
Dave Sperling’s site is another great site that’s been around for awhile now. Primarily known as a website for finding EFL teaching positions world wide with special posting boards for China, Korea and international EFL jobs, there are also some good activities, games and exercises for learners to work with too. The ELT forum is interesting and active too with feedback from your ELT peers from the “four corners of the earth”. (Yes, I know the earth is round, thank you.)

Billions of Websites Online

Certainly, with billions of websites online, there are a multitude of available, blogs, articles, posts, forums and other resources for English language teachers from which to choose. We’ve started a concise list here which will continue to grow. If you have a favorite site or online resource you’d like to share, please post it in the comments section to help your fellow EFL teachers. In the next article post we’ll continue with more useful websites for EFL teachers. See you then.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

What is a Communicative Approach to English Language Teaching?

A Communicative Approach?
There are a variety of approaches to teaching English as a second or foreign language. One aspect of English and foreign language teaching involves using a Communicative Approach. But what exactly does using a communicative approach mean?

Well for me, a Communicative Approach to language teaching includes several distinct aspects. We’ll mention two of them here. Applying these aspects means that language teaching and learning become far more than a series of grammar lessons and vocabulary lists. For language teaching and learning to be truly communicative, it must not only be in context, but used to convey ideas, preferences, thoughts, feelings and information in a way that is addressed to reach others. Usually, I address communicative language teaching through the use of two approaches:

• Content-Based Instruction (CBI)
• Task-Based language teaching (TBLT)

Definitions of CBI vs. TBL in ELT
In CBI (Widdowson, 1978), the focus of classes is not on the language and structure itself, but rather on learners acquiring skills or knowledge using English as the language of instruction. If you teach a learner how to repair computers, for example, and use English as the language of instruction, the learners improve their language communicative skills while learning foremost the skill of computer repair.

Task-Based Learning in ELT
In the TBLT approach (Willis, 1996), the focus is on providing communicative activities needed for English language learning, performing tasks using the target language (English) and using the English language in other ways for learning tasks. Examples would be having learners buy postage to mail a letter by first teaching them the structures and language needed to perform the task, then actually having them do it. Another example would be teaching learners the needed English to order a meal in a restaurant, or make a shopping purchase, then allowing them to complete such tasks on their own using unguided or free speech.

Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching
In the publication, “Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching” by Jack C. Richards and Theodore S. Rodgers (CUP, 2001) more than a dozen approaches to ELT are explored in depth. From the now defunct Grammar-Translation and Situational approaches to Total Physical Response (TPR), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Lexical approaches to the Communicative approaches, the Natural approach and Cooperative Learning, English and foreign language teachers world wide have a much greater language teaching approach repertoire than ever before.

So, what’s it going to be then?


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

How Would YOU Teach English as a Foreign Language to a Group of Complete Beginners?

Which English for Them?
The first requirement in teaching a group of complete beginners (English 1) is to understand the purpose of their learning, i.e., General English, Technical English, and English for travel or for their employment, needs to be considered. Beginning themes would include the alphabet and its pronunciation in English. This can be especially important if learners use a different alphabet in their first language (L1).

Practice with spelling in English, when giving information on the telephone, for example. I would communicatively teach giving and returning greetings and introducing yourself and others. Then the teaching of basic numbers, counting, saying and writing telephone numbers. Pronunciation practice might also be an increasing important aspect, especially if the learners’ L1 used a different connected speech model from English i.e., tonal, syllable-based or stress-based.

Using a Variety of EFL Classroom Activity Types
Additional basic themes along with essential vocabulary would follow being taught in context or actual use. I would teach vocabulary and use in context of clothing, foods, days of the week, months of the year, house and home, furniture, etc. while using a variety of class room activity types and available resources such as videos, CDs, flash cards, games and so forth. Actual practice would depend on such factors as the learners’ first language (L1), learner profiles, available resources, length, duration and frequency of the class among others.

When Everybody Fails an English Course Level
An additional point is that on occasion, when a large number of learners fail an English course level, regardless of which level, the institute director will assign the group to me for a repetition of the failed course level the following semester. I then use the theory of Multiple Intelligences (H. Gardner, 1983), determine the strengths, weaknesses and learning styles of the students. Using this information, I prepare materials, activities and lessons suited specifically for this particular group of learners. The ensuing success rate of my repeating-learner courses is about 96%.

Don’t Use the Learners’ First Language
Finally, I try, as much as practically possible, NOT to use the learners’ first language (L1). This focuses them on working, learning and communicating ONLY in English. Yes, it is a shock to many learners at fist, but they usually soon adjust and learn the use of the language much more quickly, in my personal experience. As learners progress through higher levels of English language learning, their appreciation of using English-only in the classroom is heightened. They have also been trained to eliminate bad language-learning habits such as translation and over-reliance on their first language for meanings, definitions, questions and explanations. And that’s definitely a good thing, right?


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

How Listening to Music Influences English Language Teaching Learning and Everyday Life

English and Foreign Language Learner Benefits of Listening to Music
How can you effectively use music in your English or foreign language learning class room? Listening to certain types of music has quite a number of additional benefits which go far beyond teaching and learning as we examined in, “Six English and Foreign Language Learner Benefits of Listening to Music”. The impact of music and songs in ELT is well-documented. Now let’s continue our brief overview with five additional benefits of listening to music.


Photo: Pop Folksinger, Tracey Chapman

Five Additional Benefits of Listening to Music:

• Reduces Errors
With the improved integration and function of the brain and its two hemispheres, comes improved concentration and thinking ability. This immediately impacts our normal functioning by reducing the number of incorrect resolutions and responses to problems. Whatever you may be thinking or doing, you’ll simply do it better.

• Aids in Digestion
Imagine the nicest, fanciest, and most expensive restaurant you can. The food will be exquisite of course. Are they playing music in the restaurant? Very likely so, but is the music Heavy Metal Rock, Rap, Hip Hop or Acid Jazz? Almost certainly not. The music played will of a type designed to promote a pleasant emotional and digestive state. Music has long been used to enhance the dining experience in one way or another.

• Helps to Regulate Moods
As touched on briefly at bit earlier, our moods and state of mind can be influenced or altered by the use of music. To help relax people in elevators, music is pied into it. The same is true in doctor’s offices, medical and dental clinic waiting areas and even airports. People who have a fear of heights, falling, flying or dentists are helped to calm down a bit and relax.

• Moderates Tempo of Activity
Do you work to music? I and many other professionals often do. When I write, the Beethoven music station is normally playing in the background. At other times I might put smooth jazz in the CD-ROM drive for the mellowing effect it has on me. When I’m on deadline and need to focus along with working quickly, faster-rhythmed Salsa music goes into my CD player. Fast-food restaurants want you to eat quickly, so they play faster-tempo music in the background.

• Aids in Isolation from Noise and Distractions
When you can’t control external sounds and noise, you might try putting on some music to help to mentally “drown out” the distraction. Our ears can be selective, not in what we may hear, but in what we choose to actually listen to. Playing something you like will override distractions and noise which may be in the background.

Many Other Benefits of Listening to Music
These are but some of the hundreds of individual benefits researchers have discovered that are tied to listening to certain types of music. Listening to music has benefits, not only in the EFL or foreign language learning classroom, but in a number of other aspects of our daily lives as well.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 120 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Six English and Foreign Language Learner Benefits of Listening to Music

Using Music in English or Foreign Language Learning
How can you effectively use music in your English or foreign language learning class room? Why, we can hardly count the ways. Listening to certain types of music has quite a number of additional benefits which go far beyond teaching and learning. The impact of music and songs in ELT is, in fact, profound. But let’s have a brief overview of some other of listening to music’s many benefits.


Photo: Jazz Tooter Stephen Bradbury belts one out

Benefits of Listening to Music:

• Learning Time is Reduced
By lowering the “barriers” or Affective Filter to learning, students of all types can acquire information and skills in a much shorter period of time. By having a more relaxed, attentive and receptive state, most students can learn more in a shorter period of time. This can be equally true for English and foreign language teachers as well as the learners.

• Learner Test Scores Improve
Test-taking anxiety is one of the major causes of poor exam results among many different types of foreign language and other learners. Several different types of music are proven to be effective in reducing varieties of stress and test-taking anxiety, therefore resulting in improved test scores. More relaxed, stress-reduced learners (and teachers too) typically perform better.

• Has a Calming Effect on Hyperactivity
Not only is music an emotional-state modifier, it aids in calming hyper-activity in both children and adults. Classical, Baroque period and easy-listening music are a frequently-used tool in centers for hyper-active, learning-disabled and autistic children worldwide. Suggestions of musical works to try out were offered in the article post, “Using Classical Music in the EFL Classroom”.

• Improves Creativity
In previous article posts we discussed the effect of music on altering the brain-wave state of the brain. This has a direct impact on creativity and imagination. Try this: Close your eyes while listening to a piece of Mozart, Chopin or Beethoven. Notice how images immediately start to flow through your mind. Input a problem or specific theme and your right, left and subconscious will all work together to give you not one, but several solutions to a problem or scenario.

• Injuries Heal More Quickly
Is music used in hospitals in your area? In many health centers, clinics and hospital wards, including maternity wards, delivery rooms and intensive-care units, music is used to aid in controlling and maintaining a relaxed, positive state of mentality among patients. The medical staff benefits from the music too.

• Integrates the Right and Left Brain Hemispheres
The “The Theory of Dual Psychology” states that the brain uses each of its two hemispheres for different types of functions. Located in the right brain hemisphere are creativity, imagination, color, music and intuition. While located in the left brain hemisphere are spoken and written language, logical thinking and reasoning, numbers and some physical skills. The two brain hemispheres are connected by a structure called the Corpus Callosum. Music has the effect of helping to integrate the two brain hemispheres for improved thinking and learning ability.

In the upcoming companion article post entitled, “How Listening to Music Influences English Language Teaching Learning and Everyday Life” we’ll continue to overview benefits of listening to music for teaching, learning and in our everyday life. See you again then.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 120 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Writing Articles: Three Areas in Which Everyone is a Qualified Expert

Three of Your Expert Areas
In the companion article post to this one, “How to Write Articles about What You Know When You Don’t Know Anything”, we discussed possibilities in four article theme topic areas. There are three distinct areas however, where absolutely everyone is a hands-up, qualified expert. These are: your home and personal travels, your teaching and learning experiences, and any personal pleasures, pastimes or pet peeves that you may have.

• Home and Travels
Where have you lived, visited, vacationed or traveled to? What’s it like to live, work, travel or study abroad? Can you speak a foreign language? How did you learn to do it? What mistakes did you make? How did you manage living in South America, Asia, Africa or Europe? What did you eat and drink? How do you prepare meals from those places? What tips or advice do you have for others who’d like to follow in your footsteps?

• Teaching and Learning
Have you ever taught something to someone else? Have you then, ever learned something unique, different or special in some way that is interesting? You can expound on that at length and in detail, can’t you? Do you have pictures, photographs or videos of these things too? Can you go back and get pictures, photographs and videos?

• Pleasures, Pastimes or Pet Peeves
What really ticks you off? How could people learn to avoid doing things like that to others? Express your opinion with ways, tips and techniques to develop the needed knowledge and skills to be better. Whether social skills like meeting people, etiquette, self-improvement, over coming fears or bad habits, among many others, there are possibly thousands upon thousands of people wanting to know what you know. Tell them by writing about it.

So You REALLY Don’t Know Anything?
With these three topic areas and questions, you can’t possibly say, “I don’t know anything.” You’ve found out several areas that you are an “expert” in which would interest others enough for you to write about. Be sure to have a look at, “How to Write Articles about What You Know When You Don’t Know Anything”, if you haven’t already. Now get to writing.

Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

How to Write About What You Know When You Don’t Know Anything

Write About What You Know
What to write? Well, write about what you know. Right. How can I write, I don’t know anything? Really? I’ll bet you do know something. Not only that, but I’ll even bet that you’re a near expert on one or two topics too. “Oh no I’m not”, you say. So let’s just see about that. Here are four areas with questions to ask yourself that might just help you to find out what you are an expert in that would interest others enough for you to write articles about.

Here are Four Areas Where You May be an “Expert”

• Occupations
Where have you worked? What kinds of jobs have you done? Paid or not paid doesn’t matter, but length of time on the job might. If you’ve worked as a salesman, a cook, walked dogs, cared for other people’s children, made crafts, taught something to others or just generally lived and loved, you can talk – and write about it. Been living in a cave for years, you say? Then you’re an expert on caves and cave dwelling, living in the wilderness and in the dark.

• Hobby or Special Interests
What do you like to do? Can you paint, draw or create with your hands? Do you know cars, antiques or how to cook certain types of foods? Can you sew, knit, play music, sing or hum? How about fishing, hunting, bowling, other sports or photography? Do you dance, bird watch or garden? Have a good hand at raising earthworms, identifying butterflies and insects? Do you know about dogs, cats or other types of pets? Certainly there is something you like to do that you can talk and write articles about.

• Special Skills and Abilities
Have you learned or been specially trained to do something? Fix cars, tune motorcycles? Decorate cakes, make pies or rag dolls? Can you program or fix computers? Appliances or power tools? Do you know how to catch fish or make your own fishing lures? Can you tile a roof, make a bookcase or perhaps dance Salsa or Tango?

• Life Experiences
How about your life experiences? What have you done? What has happened to you, your family and friends over the years, that has truly had an impact on you? Can you tell others how to meet famous people? Find a good marriage partner? Care for an elderly sibling, spouse or parent? Buy a house or condo? Travel on the cheap? Do you know about credit ratings, bankruptcy and personal finance? Thousands of others may be waiting to know the information you have locked up in your heart and brain.

I Don’t Know Anything
After going through this quick list of potential topic areas and questions, certainly now you’ll no longer say, “I can’t write. I don’t know anything.” Hopefully by now, you’ve found out several areas that you are an “expert” in which would interest others enough for you to write about.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Make Your Own English Language Learning DVDs Using These Seven Simple Steps

Having Trouble Learning English?
When you find yourself having problems with learning English or some other foreign language, you can quickly and easily produce your very own language practice and study aids. How? By making your own videos and sound pronunciation practice files and putting them on a CD or DVD. Here’s what you’ll need to do.

Here are Seven simple Steps for Making Your Own English Language DVDs

• Choose a Grammar Point or Other English Language Element
What do you wish to work on? Is it grammar? To improve your English pronunciation? Do you have a vocabulary list? Do you want to learn some idioms, expressions or even slang in English? You could even just use a point from a text book, a reading passage or poem, for example.

• Find a Native or Near-native English Speaker
You’ll near someone with good pronunciation and speaking skills in English to videotape or record. The person should be a native or near-native English speaker, but they do NOT necessarily need to be an English or language teacher.

• Get Permission to Record
Talk to the person or persons explaining to them why you want to record them. You should be sure to make them feel comfortable about the process without placing any pressure on them. It’s important that they are relaxed and are willing to help you.

• Prepare Your Recording Device
Before you record, check your equipment carefully. Are the batteries fully charged? Is the memory empty and ready for your new recording file? Do you understand the steps to make a good sound or audio recording using this device? You and your recording device, i.e., video camera, digital voice recorder, camcorder, etc. should be ready for the session in advance.

• Upload to a Computer
After recording your materials or video, the file needs to be uploaded to a computer. If you don’t know how to do this perhaps you can take your device to an internet café, photo shop or electronics store and have the file uploaded to a computer. It’s also important to have your video or audio file edited if necessary for best quality. Make sure the file format is readable by your computer, CD or DVD player, MP3, MP4 or other device that you might have.

• Burn the File Onto a CD or DVD
Using software like NERO, you can then burn your audio r video files onto a CD or DVD. CDs are frequently used for data and sound files. DVDs are most often used for video image files which can be quite large or not fit onto a regular data CD. You can usually get this done at one of the businesses mentioned earlier. Many photocopy centers can also burn CD or DVD files onto a disk for you.

• Use Your DVD to Practice
Now, with your finished CD or DVD, you can play and practice whatever you need, whenever or wherever you like. It can also be copied and shared with your friends or classmates. If you have any other problem areas in English, you could repeat this process and record your models, examples or correct pronunciation forms for those too.

Make Your Own Study and Learning Aids
Using these seven simple steps make your own English language learning DVDs and CDs quickly and easily. These will be most helpful to you as English language leaning, pronunciation and study aids. Not only that, it will soon become quite a lot of fun for you too.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

What to Do When Your EFL Learners Don’t Like to Read

They Don’t Like to Read?
“But teacher, I don’t like to read!” Many of my EFL learners here in Colombia chant this so many times it’s almost a mantra. Despite efforts to the contrary, elaborate bookstore displays and campaigns, “fun” reading programs, free books and materials from ELT book publishers, and all manner of promotions for reading, the fact remains. Many EFL learners just don’t like to read.

Fight Back
Almost anything you can learn, you can learn from books. That includes physical skills as well. Of course, there are many skills and areas of knowledge that you should preferably learn “by doing”, training and experience, not just from reading books. Nonetheless, a huge proportion of learning and education comes from reading books.

“Ah”, you say. “What about the internet?” I say, bring it on. Even with videos, charts, graphs, images and other pictorial and visual forms, you still need to read eventually. If you’re not reading books, then you read articles which are segments of books. Or you read short snippets and posts, which are segments of articles. Don’t get “cheeky” with me, even on the internet, no matter how “digitally enhanced” you are, you must learn and practice focused reading skills.

What You Can Do
Here are a few suggestions for reading promotion and improvement for your EFL classes and learners.

• Start learners with reading at an early age
• Set an example – Read Yourself
• Provide or allow different types of reading materials
• Allow learners some autonomy in selecting personal reading
• Teach or help learners to acquire essential vocabulary and grammar elements
• Schedule a “reading time” during class sessions
• Make reading a low-pressure, low-stress activity

In addition, you can “tie in” reading with other activity types. Use a pre-viewing reading activity before a video. Have a short reading segment before or after a TPR activity or game. Use short reading texts to reinforce grammar elements taught in your English classes. Teach and practice key lexis in context using relevant, interesting reading passages. Keep reading activities short at first. You can lengthen readings and reading time as the school term progresses.

Many EFL Learners Don’t Like Reading
Many EFL learners just don’t like to read. You can help to “soften” the impact of reading for them by incorporating short, focused readings as an integral, dynamic part of other activity types in the classroom. Slowly, but surely, you can aid in adjusting their attitude towards reading with time, patience and some solid EFL didactics practices in the English language learning class room.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book, "If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Where This EFL Teaching and Learning Blog is Read : The Final Top Ten Countries

Here is a Countdown of the Final Top Ten Countries by Number of Readers

6. Spain
Some of my post-graduate studies and research were done in Barcelona, so I’m not too surprised that there is a distinctive readership from there. EFL programs, the vast majority of which also follow the Common European Framework standard, are of very high quality too. Madrid and Barcelona lead a list of 29 cities reporting readers from Spain. Other cities include Pamplona, Leon, Malaga, Cordoba, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Coslada, Hopitalet de Llobrigat, Alicante and Seville.

5. Colombia
Since I live and teach EFL in Colombia, there’s no surprise that a relatively large number of readers are from here. In my Santiago de Cali University classes, both under-graduate and post-graduate, I promote reading my blog and articles online at other sites, such as ESLbase as well. Represented thus far are Cali, Bogota, Pereira, Cartagena, Bucaramanga, Manizales and Medellin.

4. Turkey
The high number of readers from Turkey, home of the Topkapi Dagger (pictured above) was somewhat of a surprise. EFL programs at all levels are held in high esteem there according to peers with whom I’ve had contact. Without a doubt, I’ll have to visit Turkey and Istanbul – and my former classmates Kees and Shebnem. Other of the twenty cities reporting readers from Turkey include Ankara, Samsun, Adana, Bursa, Icel, Canakkele, Gebze, Trabzon, Izmir and Izmit... We'd love to hear from you.

3. South Korea
A relatively high number of readers from South Korea however, took me completely by surprise. Some of my articles and published work has been translated into Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese and Spanish, but so far none exists in Korean that I know of. Perhaps a reader or two from Seoul, Kwanqui, Taejon, Wonju, Songnam, Anyang, Masan or Cheongqui in South Korea would care to enlighten me?

2. United Kingdom
No surprise either, as the UK now also boasts a heavy non-English-speaking immigrant status from Eastern Europe, Africa and South America. EFL programs, obviously featuring British English elements, the vast majority of which follow the Common European Framework standard, are of very high quality. Comments, questions and topic suggestions from EFL professionals based in the UK are also highly encouraged.

1. United States of America
No surprise to me actually, with the huge number of immigrants annually from non-English speaking countries, ESL is now a vast industry in the USA. Still in its fledgling stages when I started teaching ESL nearly two decades ago, the growth and need for on-going research, investigation and forums for information and expression are continually on the rise. Comments, questions and topic suggestions from EFL professionals based in the USA are cheerfully encouraged. So far 45 states have checked in.

Questions, Ideas and Comments from Readers Always Welcome

Your questions, ideas and comments are always welcome, so please feel free to post comment or e-mil me with a question or topic of interest. The blog is now moderated to block spam, malicious and obscene content, but all constructive comments which reflect reader viewpoints and opinions are posted and made available for all. Suggestions for relevant websites, blogs and ELT products are also welcomed from all readers.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

A Countdown of the Top Ten Countries Where This EFL Teaching and Learning Blog is Read

Colombia, Ecuador and Mexico

While this English Language teaching and learning blog has actually been online for more than three years now, its popularity has dramatically risen within the past year or so. Although I originally intended to have a possible readership of a few hundred EFL teachers, mostly in Colombia, Ecuador and Mexico, the readership has now expanded to more than 120 countries and more than 2000 readers per month according to Google Analytics and data tracking software installations. It all started with articles posted online at www.ezinearticles.com when a reader e-mailed me with an article-based question. Then another came, then another and another until it became prudent for me to answer questions via detailed posts which led to the creation of this blog. And so it continues …

Here is a Countdown of the Top Ten Countries by Number of Readers

10. Mexico
As a former contributing writer for the “Teach English in Mexico” newsletter, I traveled the length and breadth of Mexico from Mexico City, Taxco, Tlaxcala and Acapulco to Hermosillo and Monterrey to Cancun, Merida, and San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca, among many others. No I haven’t seen all of the country by far, but enough over several years to be well familiar with its language, culture and customs. In much of the country, English is held in very high regard. Indeed, there are English as a foreign language and/or computer technology “schools” on practically every corner in some towns. Readers come from 26 cities and towns in Mexico.

9. Indonesia
I simply had no idea of the contingent of readers from Indonesia. Principal cities of Indonesian readers include Jakarta, Malang, Surabaya, Tegal, Palembang, Yogyakarta, Gresik, Bogor, Cikarang, Pekanbaru, Bandung and seven others. Comments, opinions and input from readers in Indonesia are sincerely requested.

8. India
With English having “official language” status, it did come as a bit of a surprise that there is a contingent of readers from there. The more, the merrier, I say. Principal cities of readers from the 27 cities reported from India include New Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Ghaziabad, Mahape, Calcutta, Chandigarh, Erode, Ahmedabad and 14 others. China is recruiting EFL teachers from India in increasing numbers.

7. Canada
From “North of the border” come a large cache of readers. Canada has long encouraged immigration of young professionals from around the globe, so the presence of ESL programs comes as no surprise. A whopping 34 cities reported in from RCMP country with Vancouver and Calgary leading the way.

* RCMP = Royal Canadian Mounted Police (I knew you’d ask!)

Questions and Comments from Readers Always Welcome

Your questions and comments are always welcome, so please feel free to post comment or e-mil me with a question or topic of interest. The blog is now moderated to block spam, malicious and obscene content, but all constructive comments which reflect reader viewpoints and opinions are posted and made available for all. Suggestions for relevant websites, blogs and ELT products are also welcomed from all readers.

In the next post we'll continue the countdown to include a country which may soon boast its first ever black President. See you then.

Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 100 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

The Seven Most Distinctive Spoken English Language Varieties

Which English is Best?

With English continuing to develop as a principal world language, a question which often arises among EFL learners is, “Which English is best?” It can be confusing to new learners of all ages as to which one of the “Englishes” should be learned or studied. While the answer to this may depend on your needs and location, one consideration is the many varieties of English that exist and are spoken world wide.

Here are Seven Distinctive Varieties of English:

• American English
This category of English actually consists of several variations. There are recognizable variations in the spoken English of the South, the Pennsylvania Dutch, the New England region of the U.S., the Midwestern U.S. and the West coast. There is also “Black English” spoken as a distinct racial community variety of English across the USA.

• Black English (Ebonics)
You won’t have to go very far to hear this distinctive variety of English. Try the latest Rap or Hip Hop offerings or listen to interviews with black artists for the unique flair this English variety has. Grammar, lexis, idioms, expressions and vocabulary are all impacted by this and other varieties of English.

• British English
The origin of English proper, there are “common” variations of English spoken throughout the UK. The “Upper Crust” as it were, used a particular variety of spoken English known as RP or “Received Pronunciation”. RP is what the royal family and those educated at Oxford, Cambridge and other high-level universities were taught to use and speak.

• Australian English
No question here, Steve Irwin popularized Australia’s unique wildlife in a way like no other before his untimely, accidental death in 2006. Another character who brought Australian English to the forefront of public knowledge was Paul “Crocodile Dundee” Hogan in a movie and sequel bearing the same name.


• Jamaican English
Spoken English in Jamaica has always been an interesting variety for the many travelers, vacationers and visitors to this island. It’s also used in movies, documentaries and films set in Jamaica. Singer Bob Marley also contributed not only his music, but interest in the culture and spoken English variety of Jamaica as have a number of other Reggae music artists.

• English Spoken in India
A distinctive variety of spoken English is used in India. The language is taught and applied there as a sort of “lingua franca”, since there are hundreds of regionally and locally spoken languages and dialects across the Indian continent. Hundreds of movies, documentaries and other media are readily available in this variety of English.

• Varieties of Pidgins and Patois Spoken in a Number of Locations
There are unique, local or regional varieties of English spoken in a number of countries world wide. Places like Belize, the Philippines, several West Indies (Caribbean) islands like Barbados, Trinidad, the Cayman Islands and both the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Guyana (formerly British) in South America and African countries where English is widely spoken, each have their own particular brand of spoken English.

English Language Needs and Location
The question, “which English is best?” usually depends on the needs and location of the EFL learner, especially when one considers the many varieties of English that exist and that are spoken world wide.


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, author and speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 120 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.

Three Benefits of Blogging for English as a Foreign Language Teachers

Blogging for ELT
In a companion article post we discussed, “Five Reasons that Every EFL Teacher Should Blog”. In this article post, we’ll continue with the overall theme of blogging for English and foreign language teaching professionals with three initial benefits of blogging for ELT. Using Blogger or Word Press as free platforms for blogging, you do not need to have extensive knowledge and computer skills to set up, operate, post to and enjoy your own personal blog.


Photo: In Colombia, I have taught (and blogged about) English to university students, adults, English teachers and Embera Indians in the rain forests of the Choco

Benefit 1: Blogging Attracts Competent, Like-Minded Professionals
Just who are you writing for then? Well you, of course, first and foremost. However, when you write and post passionately on a topic a funny thing usually happens, you’ll soon attract others who share similar outlooks, goals, triumphs, problems, trials and tribulations as you do. They will in turn, share with you on how they cope with similar occurrences on their end, what they think, and what’s worked – or not – for them in their situations. You’ll know, in no uncertain terms, that you’re not alone.

Benefit 2: Blogging is an Excellent Way to Document Your Experiences
Do you now keep a diary, a teaching journal or an ELT scrapbook? How about your EFL learners? If you or they do, or you have thought about doing so, your blog can serve as your own personal space. There you can document “the good, the bad and the ugly” of your English language teaching situation on a daily or weekly basis. It can serve as an indicator of your growth as an ELT professional and a private person as well. It will document your changing thoughts, opinions and ideas for growing and improving in your profession, as well as your life.

Benefit 3: Blogging Forces You to Grow
Wherever you are now, whatever it is that you do, blogging will be a constant aid in your personal and professional development. You’ll need to learn new skills, update others and eliminate outdated thinking and practices. You’ll read more, research more and write more. You’ll also laugh more, learn more and hopefully, cry less due to having an outlet to share when you need it. Are you now living in a new, different or foreign country? Great! Then blog it. Remember, you can also add digital photographs, digital sound clips and even videos to your blog. Blogs are not just for writing in any more.

Finally, The Blog`s the Thing …
So there you have them. Three distinct benefits blogging can give to English or foreign language teaching professionals. Add to these the “Five Reasons that Every EFL Teacher Should Blog” and you’re out of excuses not to get started now. How about it? Now are you ready to start an ELT blog of your own? What are you waiting around for?


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, expert author and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in more than 120 countries. Get your FREE E-book,"If you Want to Teach English Abroad, Here's What You Need to Know" by requesting the title at: lynchlarrym@gmail.com Need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, institution, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant SEO content for your website, blog or newsletter? Then E-mail me for further information.