Learning English as a Foreign Language with Laughter

Laughter, the Best English Language Learning Tool
see full text online at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2007/dec/05/tefl2

When asked, most experienced language teachers will readily admit that they encourage humour and laughter in their classrooms and plan it into their lessons. So what is the role of unplanned and spontaneous humour – moments when the whole class momentarily erupts in laughter before returning to the task at hand?

In the early days of each course, when they meet their class for the first time, language teachers convey many hidden messages through their body language, their overall demeanour and the manner in which they address their students. One clear message (usually implicit) relates to the kind of atmosphere they wish to foster in their classroom.

In order to develop a spirit of informality within their classes such teachers attempt to reduce the social distance between themselves and their students by behaving in friendly and approachable ways. They smilingly encourage students to speak and applaud their efforts, being supportive when errors are made.

They may sometimes demonstrate in a humorous way that they themselves find unfamiliar sounds difficult to pronounce. If they make an error on the board (as most teachers do from time to time) they may make a quick quip to show that they are not embarrassed – and to demonstrate that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process.

When it is appropriate to pull individuals into line, teachers tend to do so firmly but with a light touch, returning to the business of the lesson as quickly as possible. (By disciplining students with humour, teachers reduce the risk of alienating potentially tricky individuals.)

Language learners quickly absorb the message that their teacher welcomes spontaneous laughter within the classroom (provided it is of the supportive 'laughing with' and not of the destructive 'laughing at' kind). Sensing that their teacher has given them permission to laugh, many classes start to relax and to behave in readily responsive ways.

Full text of this article available online at:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2007/dec/05/tefl2

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 135 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.

Babbel Grows from Website to Comprehensive Language Learning System

Enjoy Learning Languages at Babbel.com


PR Log (Press Release) – Apr 13, 2010

Today the interactive language learning system Babbel (www.babbel.com) presents three new key features that make learning foreign languages easier than ever. Babbel apps for iPhone, created in collaboration with German software company Aspirement, offer convenient learning for on-the-go. Meanwhile, a special desktop program for PC and Mac now individualizes the learner’s routine. Finally, a newly designed interface for Personal Vocabulary allows words to be printed out for study offline. Tailored to fit individual routines, and taking full advantage of current internet technology, Babbel opens up new dimensions for the study of foreign languages.

High Learning Efficiency: Babbel Mobile for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad

Anyone can take a few moments on the way to work, in a café or during the commercial break to quickly practice some vocabulary: The Babbel Mobile apps in seven languages for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad makes this possible. When traveling, the program is also a great bring-along tutor and can provide the most useful vocabulary and phrases with just one click. Downloading the iPhone apps in any of Babbel’s seven languages – Spanish, French, English, German, Italian, Portuguese and Swedish – is free. Subscribers to the online portal have access to the entire Vocabulary on- and offline. There is also a trial version those who have not yet purchased Babbel.

Every user’s Personal Vocabulary synchronizes automatically. For those interested in the app independently of the online portal, there is the possibility to purchase it for €5.99. This gives the chance to study up to 3000 words and phrases for any one language, as well as access to all features online and off. “With the new iPhone apps, the user can take advantage of short breaks to brush up on vocabulary words and stay present with the language – even with a tight schedule.” says Markus Witte, managing director of Babbel.

Here is a direct link to the App Store download for all Babbel languages: http://www.babbel.com/go/babbel-mobile

Individualized Language Training: “Babbel Refresh” in Beta

Most people do have the time to study foreign language vocabulary, but it’s often easy for them to get distracted or lose momentum. Babbel has developed the new Babbel Refresh to motivate learners. The program reminds the user regularly to review, and allows the personal Vocabulary Trainer to be opened with just one click. Babbel’s Refresher Tool analyzes the learner’s current progress, and calculates what should optimally be reviewed next. The user sets the flexibility of the reminders according to their particular routine.

Babbel subscribers can download Babbel Refresh and install it locally on their computer. Based on the Adobe Air runtime environment, the feature works with both Windows and Mac operating systems.“Babbel is more than just a website,” Witte says. “With this type of independent learning management, Babbel is one of the most up-to-date and comprehensive language learning systems around. The combination of technology, high quality content and innovative teaching methods make Babbel very unique.” Here is a link going directly to the Babbel Refresh download page (requires Adobe Air): http://www.babbel.com/go/babbel-refresh

Newly adapted learning material makes language learning even easier
Content-wise, Babbel has expanded its language learning system to offer more courses and new formats. Starting now, Babbel users can manage their Personal Vocabulary and Refresher Tool with individualized settings. In addition, due to popular demand, the learning system now offers the opportunity to print out Personal Vocabulary.

After the recent addition of Swedish and Brazilian Portuguese, the market entry into Sweden, Brazil and Portugal has just taken effect. Now Babbel offers a total of 42 possible language combinations for more than 700,000 learners from more than 200 countries.

For further information and images go to: http://www.babbel.com/home/about/press

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 135 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 Trinity College London Licentiate Diploma

Years ago, when I was asked to state why I wanted to do the Trinity College London Licentiate Diploma Course, here's what I wrote:

There are several reasons why I wish to successfully complete the Trinity College Licentiate Diploma course. Briefly they are as follows :

The Trinity College Licentiate Diploma
The DELTA, Trinity College Licentiate Diploma or other certified advanced diploma credential is widely recognized and accepted as an advanced qualification in teaching English as a foreign language. In my current place of employment as an EFL professional, there are no courses or programs available for the advancement of English teachers whether native or non-native speakers of English. So, acquiring to higher level work or studies in the field are limited at best, non-existent at worst. As a native English-speaking English teacher with more than 14 years of EFL / ESL teaching experience, one of the few options I have of improving my value here at the Santiago de Cali University would be to complete a certified, recognized DELTA, Trinity College Licentiate Diploma or another advanced ELT diploma program outside of Colombia.

The British Council
I have worked briefly with the British Council here in Cali, Colombia as a substitute CELTA-level Teacher Trainer and wish to improve my qualifications formally with the option of applying for a Teacher Trainer position full time. This would require an advanced English teaching credential such as the DELTA, Trinity College Licentiate Diploma or other diploma level program since I presently meet most other requisites based on previous education and English teaching experience.

Problems in Colombia
Social, political and living conditions here in Colombia where I currently live and work, continue to deteriorate, violence against civilians is rapidly escalating, and having an advanced credential such as a DELTA or the Trinity College Licentiate Diploma would greatly improve my chances of obtaining a Senior EFL teaching position, an EFL Teacher Trainer position or an ELT Administrative position in another country when I exercise the option of moving to another location.

I am interested in exploring EFL teaching possibilities in Europe (Spain), if possible, or another Spanish-speaking country, North Africa (Morocco) or Asia (India). The diploma combined with my extensive EFL teaching and ELT topic presentation experience, publication of more than 100 articles, papers, reports, academic texts and student practice workshops would be an invaluable asset in supporting my bid for an upper-level ELT position in another foreign country.

A CELTA-level TEFL Certificate
Currently, I hold a CELTA-level TEFL certificate from TransWorld Teachers Institute in San Francisco, California (1993) and a TBE (Teaching of Business English) certificate from the Teacher’s Development Institute in Boston, Massachusetts (2002). An Trinity College Licentiate Diploma added to these in addition to my 14 years of EFL teaching experience would be an additional springboard for improving my knowledge of English language teaching and learning, ELT level, position and options for a continued career in teaching English as a Foreign Language or moving up permanently to available Teacher Trainer or ELT Administrative positions in countries worldwide.


Be sure to check out “An Interview with Prof. Larry M. Lynch” online at:
http://www.e1-network.com/professor_larry_lynch.html


Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL Teacher Trainer, Intellectual Development Specialist, prolific writer, 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.

Part 2 - What Are the Best Toys for Your Young Learners to Play With?

Which Toys are Really “Best”?
In considering what toys to provide for their children, parents should allow for a variety of toy types and kinds. Modern toys as well as traditional toys need to be available to permit a full range of emotional and intellectual growth. Which toys are really “best”? This actually depends on several factors such as the culture, practicalities and the child himself or herself.

Traditional vs. Modern Toys
Traditional toys are still available in quantity because they not only provide vital outlets for child development, but have survived the test of time itself. Tops, Yo-yos, rag dolls, carved case and trucks, bicycles, skates, rubber and other balls of every size and material, and the classic, age-old wagon are examples of traditional toys. “homemade” noise-makers are also included as traditional toys. “Have you ever watched – and listened to a tot bang on pots, pans, bottles, furniture and even the floor for, gasp!, hours on end?” These need no batteries, sound effects or automatically-provided motions to be highly effective, absorbing to the maximum a child’s full attention span. They work on some of the best power imaginable – the child’s own mind. In Mexico, wooden traditional toys have been all the rage for decades. Better-made, less expensive and longer-lasting than most “electronic-based” and battery-operated toys, they will likely continue to be so.

Modern Toys Do Have a Place
This is not to say that modern toys have no place. They do, and can be highly effective as well – if judiciously selected based on the needs, temperament, personality, mental development and desires of the child. Games, dolls (with “active” elements) and scenarios like train or race car sets can be welcomed and effective developmental toys for children when combined with other types which stimulate play, imagination and aid in aspects of the child’s mental development. What are the best toys for your children to play with? Know the personality, character and developmental needs of your child and you’ll be much better prepared to make successful choices.

Please feel free to e-mail me at lynchlarrym@gmail.com with any questions, feedback or concerns you might have. For ideas on homemade toys for your children you might like to read my article, “Fun but Simple Creative Toys You or Your Kids Can Make”.


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 Are the Best Toys for Your Young Learners to Play With? Part 1

Flash back to a Christmas Morning
Eyes wide and beaming with ear-to-ear smiles, a two year old boy and his five year old sister ripped open their Christmas presents one by one. A battery-powered doll that ”sings”, a new bike complete with flashers, siren and lights, a battery-powered set of race cars that pits two vehicles against each other around a closed track. Battery-powered lights flash, wheels whirl and engines “roar” while an overhead banner counts laps with colored lights and finally, declares a winner. It was a scene of utter joy on the part of the children and parents alike. But wait. I was becoming a bit leery of the scene unfolding before me.

Does Everything Use Batteries?

“Does everything use batteries”, I asked.

Apparently getting my point, the father nodded sheepishly in the affirmative before laughing out loud. How much value are such toys in the education of children and in helping to mold young, eager minds?

The two year old began to illustrate my point. He didn’t want to simply watch the red and black cars race around the tiered track. He wanted to play with the cars. Snatching the red one up, he rolled it back and forth on the floor in front of him ignoring the flashing lights and sound effects behind him.

“R-r-r-r-r-r”, “R-r-r-r-r-r-r”, “R-r-r-r-r-r-r”, he trilled, imitating a car engine.

“No, no son”, father responded, showing the boy how to turn on the battery-powered car sounds. The child watched and listened, fascinated for a few moments. Then, he’d have none of it.

“R-r-r-r-r-r”, “R-r-r-r-r-r-r”, “R-r-r-r-r-r-r”, he sounded again, the car back in his hand whirring across the cool tile floor.

What is a Toy?
Webster’s New World Dictionary defines “toy” as “an article to play with; especially a plaything for children.” The key point I want to make is that children play with or use the toy. They are not passive observers. Toys should NOT be the kind that a child just sits and watches. They MUST be “interactive” tools for children to have any true development.

What Toys Do
Toys can provide numerous aspects and functions. Some of the more important of these include:

• Stimulate role play and modeling of cultural behaviors
• Help to develop critical perceptive skills
• Help to develop and fine tune motor skills
• Directly stimulate right brain development of visual-spatial aspects and color
• Aid in development of critical thinking
• Provide a channel for development of emotional intelligence
• Educate children in a variety of ways (which can be positive or negative)
• Entertain young, developing minds

We'll continue this theme in part two of this two-part article post. 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.

Teaching English in Cali, There is Salsa in the air

Problems in Colombia
Even with all the changes and problems in Colombia, Cali retains a homey charm, a personality different from other cities, an atmosphere you might expect to find in the Caribbean at times. Kathleen Romoli, author of “Colombia: Gateway to South America”, describes it well:

“The most striking thing about Cali today is not the Plaza Caicedo with it imposing government buildings and rows of taxis, along the avenues of giant palms, nor the suburbs with their modem villas, and churches, whose bells chime melodies instead of clanging as it Bogotá, nor the busy factories. It is the pervasive air of cheerfulness almost of gaiety- not that it is a city of many amusements; Cali is not gay by virtue of commercial facilities for organized diversion but by the grace of god.”

Cali Attracts Travelers
Cali attracts travelers from all over; tourists, businessmen, back packers, scientists, and students; and of course, salsa fans and salsa artists. Recording studios, “rumberias”, ”discothèques” and “viejotecas” abound in many sections of the city.

What is Cali’s appeal? The city’s buoyant atmosphere? The spectacular sunsets? The natural beauty of the soaring Farallones mountains? The vaunted beauty of its women? Perhaps it’s the climate where it’s always “June”. Or could it be its remarkable cleanliness? Many Colombian towns are clean, but Cali is so clean it stands out. Or maybe it’s the trees, greenery and flowers—the billowing crimson and purple bougainvilla that tumbles in profusion from the walls, the cup-of-gold that drips from the eaves, the waxy bells of the trumpet flow, the poinsettia bushes, gorgeous gardenias, the trees with magenta leaves and carmine flowers or others with feathery green—white blossoms or pale clusters of pink—the wild extravagance of blooms among which iridescent green-bellied hummingbirds flit even in winter.

Presently though, the city has temporarily lost some of its more charming aspects. Streets and thoroughfares lie muddy and broken as a new mass-transit system, the MIO, is being constructed. Nonetheless, residents hope that later this year, as the construction finally finishes, that the city will regain much of its beauty and friendliness.


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.

Teaching English in Colombia: Welcome to Cali

Welcome to Chango’s
You step through the darkened entranceway, leaving the tropical night behind. Suddenly, waves of sound crash over you like ocean surf. Breaking out in a sweat, your heart pounds to the rhythm of bass, bongos, bells and brass. The walls seem to pulsate. The pungent smell of perspiration mixed with perfume assaults you. As your eyes adjust to the dark, broken by hypnotic flashes of the multi-colored strobes, you realize it’s not walls that enclose you, but dancers— scores of dancers gyrating, weaving and swirling, limbs flashing, hips thrusting in quarter—time beat. You fill your lungs with the spicy aroma, tighten your belt a notch and plunge in. Welcome to Chango’s in Cali, Colombia - one of Latin America's hottest Salsa night clubs.

Cali, a modern, festive city of two and a half million residents, lies in the heart of “the Valley.” when Colombians say “the Valley” they mean the Cauca valley, a not so little Garden of Eden a hundred-fifty miles long and some fifteen miles wide between the coastal mountain ranges and the Central Cordillera. Until the turn of the century, this valIey was little more than a rural outpost.

The Cauca Valley
Back then, with a population of some 15,000, the Cauca Valley was largely cattle country, parceled out in vast tracts among the “haciendados.” These were proud, almost haughty men who raised cattle for leather and beef. Some had plantations of sugar cane used to produce the sweetener “panela” and distill the crystal-clear but potent “aguardiente” still sipped today. Life was slow, measured, patriarchal and unchanging.

It has been said that the Cauca region is to Colombia what the South is to the United States. Indeed, there are similarities. In bygone days “hidalgos walked the unpaved “calles” in coats of velvet or scarlet broadcloth embroidered and buttoned with gold and silver, their waistcoats of flowered silk, and the ruffles of their shirts were of the finest batiste,” says Kathleen Romoli, author of “Colombia: Gateway to South America”. And like the Southern states in colonial rimes, large numbers of slaves were imported to work the fields and serve the gentry.

Sugar Cane Country
Time has brought many changes. Today vast sugar cane plantations still carpet the Valley. Mechanized production of cotton, rice and cattle has turned the Cauca Valley into Colombia’s most important agricultural area, after “King Coffee”. And with economic growth has come industry. A leisurely colonial town in 1900, Cali has grown into a large manufacturing center with more than a thousand industries at last count.


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.

Living and Teaching English in Cali, Colombia – No Salsa, No Dates

No Salsa No Dates
Cali has all the amenities typically offered by most large, first-world cities. But undoubtedly for many, the principal attraction that lures them to this charming city is Salsa music. The sensuous, tropical rhythms of Salsa pervade the lives of the two million plus Caleños. On every bus you’ll hear Salsa. Go for a walk, to school or shopping there’s salsa in the air. And, of course there’s Salsa on almost all of the more than two dozen local radio stations. All over town, 24-hours a day, Salsa blasts from speakers on the streets, in parks, in stores, from cars, portable radios and private homes. Cali lives and breathes Salsa.


But why Salsa?
Many other musical traditions, styles and types of folk music flourish in Cali (including the traditional Cumbia, where machete wielding dancers stomp around full-busted women in ruffled skirts). What’s so special about Salsa? After all Vallenatos, a brand of folk music with roots back to the days of the Spanish conquistadors, is still hugely popular—especially as sung by the likes of Colombia’s Grammy award winner Carlos Vives(pictured). Boleros (check out Luis Miguel’s “Inolvidable”) and Merengue continue to have strong followings here.

Why has this one style ingrained itself so deeply into the culture? To aficionados the answer is simple: “I love salsa music.” Whatever the reason for it’s universal popularity in Cali, Salsa is more than just music, more than a dance. It’s an indispensable social skill explains my friend, Carmenza, “No salsa—no dates.” You can’t meet others if you can’t dance.” And that’s why there are salsa dance schools throughout the city. You pay for lessons by the hour. Prices range from $6 up to $10 per hour for more private, one-on-one instruction. Group classes fu up fast. Salsa classes are not just the place to go for learning, but to practice and perfect your moves or pick up some new ones. They’re a good “meeting place” for neighborhood residents. “It’s important to dance very well or you’re boring,” says Sofia, an avid Salsa fan.

The Salsa Capital of the World
Cali calls itself the “Salsa Capital, of the World,” a title wrenched from post-Fidel Cuba and often shared with New York City. But even those who might take exception to “World Capital” will agree that Cali is certainly the “Salsa Capital of South America.” The top Latin salsa performers, like New York’s Jerry “King of 54th Street” Gonzalez, regularly fly in to strut their stuff. At any given time you can see all the famous names in salsa, artists hike Cuba’s “Queen of Salsa,” Celia Cruz; guitarist, singer and songwriter Juan Luis Guerra from the Dominican Republic; Frank Raul Grillo, the Cuban American also known as Machito; Reuben Blades, the popular Panamanian singer, songwriter, actor and politician renowned for his musical innovations as well as traditional Salsa; Willie Colon; Oscar d’Leon, and many others.

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.

Cali, Salsa Capitol of the World

Different Styles and Variations of Salsa
You don’t have to go far in this city of dancers to hear all the different styles and variations of Salsa. The suburb of Juanchito, with 120 of the hottest dance halls, is the throbbing rhythmic heart of Cali’s Salsa nightlife. Every week throughout the year, two hundred thousand locals pour into this eastern suburb to party. Cali teems with discos and “viejotecas” for the young and not so young. Latinos of younger generations typically favor a smoother, more sentimental music known as Salsa Romantica, popularized by bandleaders such as Eddie Santiago and Tito Nieves. Internationally popular salsa singers of the 1990s included Linda “India” Caballero and Mark Anthony. The Puerto Rico-based orchestra “Puerto Rican Power” is another hot group with ardent fans both in Cali and Puerto Rico.

Photo: Prof. Larry M. Lynch and his Colombian wife, Doris

It’s Worth a Trip to Cali to Hear …
While it’s thrilling to hear famous performers of Salsa music from abroad, don’t forget Cali’s many own outstanding world class groups and musicians of Salsa fame blending the old with the new, the classic and the innovative. It’s worth a trip to Cali just to hear the vibrant non-traditional sounds of Jairo Varela and the Grupo Niche. Or other artists like “Son de Cali,” the all—female “Orchestra Canela” and Lisandro Meza who also inject new blood into Cali´s Salsa scene. These and the intoxicating classic Salsa sounds of Kike Santander, Joe Arroyo and Eddy Martinez thunder through the air and flow in the veins of ”coca-colos” (late teens to early 20s adolescents) and “cuchos” alike in discos, salsatecas and even in viejotecas that draw the over-35 crowd.

When I Arrived in Cali
When I arrived in Cali in 1995, I thought my salsa was OK. After all, I’d picked up some smooth moves from a bevy of hot Puerto Rican beauties during a summer stint in San Juan. Even back in my home state of Pennsylvania, there were opportunities on Friday or Saturday nights to slip out and mix with Latinos at our local Hispanic watering holes. I’d perfected a double-quick step in a rectangular pattern, too, and added whirls and spins to the heavy beat. I had no trouble getting, and keeping, dance partners. Then in Miami, during a Labor Day weekend retreat, I met a Latin cutie. I invited her for dinner and dancing later that week at “La Cima,” one of the city’s top Salsa clubs, to show off my moves. She was impressed. A year later we married and after a couple more years we moved to her native Colombia.

Colombian salsa is a different beast. The style, rhythm and beat are similar in other places but it’s a different story on the dance floor. My feet recognized the beat, but behaved as if 1 were wearing Bozo shoes. For a while, 1 stuck to downtown places like “Cuarto Venina,” perched on the banks of the brownish, knee-deep Cali River. It’s listening only, no dancing here. The music is so subdued you can carry on a conversation over "empanadas" and cold “Costeña” beer. It can be just the right touch for a Sunday afternoon. Nowadays, my Latin cutie and 1 are considered “cuchos” (the over-45 set). It’s been many years now. We’re still here though, our 14th wedding anniversary is this month. We're still dancing Salsa.
… and I’m still showing off my moves.

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.

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.

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.

Unique Ways of Evaluating Foreign Language Learners

Testing, Evaluation and Assessment in EFL

You know the looks you’re going to get whenever you “announce” an upcoming quiz, test or evaluation. Whether these are administration-mandated, curriculum-included, make-up or “recuperation-type” exams, English and foreign language learners alike, loathe them. Why not try some different, unique evaluation methods to help beat the “test-taking blues” which afflict virtually all EFL / ESL learners?

Here are Seven Different Testing, Assessment and Evaluation Types You Might Want to Consider:

• Traditional Exams
One all-too-often-used method of evaluating learner knowledge and language skills is by using standard examination forms. These can be prepared individually by each teacher or educational institution, be locally, regionally or globally produced. These types of evaluations, however, favor those learners who are “good” at taking tests.

• Learner-Produced Portfolios
Another popular, but less-frequently-used form of EFL learner evaluation consists of examination of a learner-produced portfolio of work at intervals during the school year or learning period. This allows for considerably more latitude for the learners to demonstrate their knowledge and language skills in ways which are more appealing to them individually.

• Expository Essays
A favored form in use in the UK and Europe, learners write detailed, annotated and foot-noted personal essays or compositions on focused topics. Their formal writing is based on what they have read up on, studied, experienced, been lectured to about or otherwise involved themselves with.

• Learning Projects
Time, resources, teacher skills and other factors permitting, individual or small group projects can be assigned which allow learners to demonstrate in-depth investigation and learning on a focused theme or topic. A variety of learning project types and methods of presenting their project can be applied, allowing for considerable latitude among a class group.

• Computer-Aided Language Evaluation
If an extensive web quest is assigned to the EFL / ESL learners, despite similar topics, websites visited, readings done and tasks involved, learners will internalize materials in completely different ways. Evaluations can also be computer-based with the examination program itself actually checking and grading each learner’s work. This is often most attractive to English language teachers who are time-strapped or teach large, multi-level groups of learners.

• Peer Evaluation
The learners themselves are often shocked at being given this option. They will prepare their own evaluations on the materials and skills they are working with. They can also suggest or recommend exam questions, evaluation activity types, length, frequency and duration of exams and evaluations. “Oh yes”, you say, “they’ll make up “easy” exams that everyone can surely pass”. No, they won’t. It’s surprising to many teachers just how thorough learner-produced exams can be.

• Learner-Prepared Presentations
You’ve planned a topic, resources and materials to be used, timing of class sessions, homework and assignments. Why not allow the learners to present what they’ve “internalized” in a presentation that they’ve selected for themselves? Most foreign language learners are often delighted to do so. They’ll usually do a much better job of preparing, studying and organizing their learning than many teachers imagine.

Eliminate the “Test-Taking Blues”

At least now you have an expanded arsenal of methods to use for evaluation of your English or other foreign language learners during the course of a school term, semester or scholastic year. It won’t completely eliminate the “test-taking blues”, but it’s a step in the right direction.


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.

Seven Guaranteed Ways to Fail English as a Foreign Language Class

Learning English or Other Foreign Language?

If learning English or some other foreign language simply doesn’t interest you at all, but you find yourself having to take English classes, here are seven guaranteed ways to ensure that you will fail. Add all of these to a deliberate lack of any English language practice at all, and you will soon be collecting bad grades and poor English language skills in droves.

Here are Seven Almost Guaranteed Ways to Fail English Class

• Don’t Study for the Exams
In most formal English or other foreign language classes, you’ll be required to take periodical exams or evaluations of some type. Don’t bother to study or prepare for these in any way. Try to get a zero if you can.

• Miss English Classes Often
In addition to not preparing for your English as a foreign language classes, you can just skip the classes altogether. Often there is a limit to the number of classes that can be missed and still have the possibility of passing. Exceed this limit and there you are, failing English classes can be just that simple. So fail early and avoid the late semester rush.

• Don’t Ever Ask Any Questions
Okay, so you’re in English as a foreign language class. “Yadda, yadda, yadda”, the teacher is explaining grammar. You don’t really understand but don’t ever ask any questions in class and you won’t disturb the EFL teacher. This will really help you to fail.

• Try NOT to Participate in English Class
You don’t want to disturb the English teacher, do you? So don’t raise your hand or volunteer to answer any questions in English class. No only that, but you shouldn’t participate in English class activities at all. Dialogues, games, practice activities and other dynamics shouldn’t concern you.

• Never Read or Use the English Class Course Book

If your English as a foreign language classes require the use of a course book, you may have to buy one but you certainly don’t ever have to open, read or use it in any way. Maybe you can even sell it to some other learner for next semester.

• Forget About Doing Homework and Assignments
Look, your free time is yours to do with as you please, why use it studying and practicing English? Don’t worry about doing homework. Forget those English class assignments. If the EFL teacher is pushy about checking books and collecting assignments, you could just copy the work from one of your buddies.

• Disrupt the Other Learners in English Class as Much as Possible
If some “authority” like the school Principal or your parents absolutely insist on your being in English class, then the least you can do is to make your presence known by disrupting English class activities as much as possible. Laugh, joke, talk with other learners in your first language, whatever you might feel in the mood for. This will help you to fail as quickly as possible.

In All Probability You Will Fail English
If you strictly follow these seven ways of approaching English classes, you can rest assured that in all probability you will fail English as a foreign language this term and every term. Encourage your classmates to do the same and you can help them to fail English classes too. Guaranteed.


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 Best Places in Your Town to Learn English

Why Travel Abroad?

Who said that the only way to learn English or other foreign language was to travel abroad? True, this is an excellent way to acquire a second or foreign language, but it’s hardly the only way. You can delve into and deepen your English or foreign language knowledge and skills right there in your city or town. Where? How? Read on …


Here are Seven of the Best Places in Your Town:

• The Public Library
This can be one of the best places to learn English and a lot of other things too, for that matter. You can not only read, but listen to tapes and cassettes, as well as watch videos and DVDs. Ask what materials are available in your local public library and you just might be surprised at how much they have.

• A Language Institute
If there is a branch of a foreign language teaching institute in your town, it might be a great place to broaden and deepen your foreign language skills. They would also know of stores, shops, restaurants and grocers familiar with the language you’d like to learn, whether it’s English or some other language.

• A Community College
Is there a community college or other higher-learning facility in your town? Check into whether or not they have English language learning, foreign language or writing courses. Many continuing education type courses are offered after working hours or on weekends for the convenience of working adult learners.

• Restaurants and Diners
While you’re learning English, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Japanese, German, French, Arabic or other foreign languages, regular meals at related ethnic restaurants or diners can be a great boost to your vocabulary. Especially if any of the staff speak the foreign language you’re interested in.

• Bookstore or News Stands
Depending on where you live, the local bookstores and news stands may well offer foreign language newspapers, magazines and other publications in English or other foreign language that you may be interested in. Even comic books and publications for children can be useful, so don’t rule them out.

• EFL Classes
Naturally, wherever they are, you’re going to root out any available English as a foreign language or other foreign language courses in your area. Look for classifieds for language tutors too. Then call to arrange for more personalized private lessons.

• Local TV and Radio Broadcasts
While this isn’t exactly a place, you can in fact, lean quite a lot from regularly scheduled broadcasts in English or whatever other foreign language you’d like to learn. Check newspaper and TV guide listings for foreign language broadcasts or call local stations and ask about their English or foreign language programming. Also, be ready to record broadcasts from the radio or television so you can repeat them as you need to help you to practice and learn.

Before You Travel Abroad

So again, who said that the only way to learn English or other foreign language was to travel abroad? You can delve into and deepen your English or foreign language knowledge and skills right there in your city or town using the seven places and methods just mentioned. Check around to see what’s available. Then take advantage of every option that you can.


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.

Seven English Language Literary Writers You Should Know

English Language Learners Welcome

Whether your learners come from a reading-based culture or not, you should have them become familiar with written English. There are a number of authors whose works your English language learners would welcome, believe it or not. The first in some cases though, is to have the EFL teacher become familiar with English language authors and with how their works might be utilized in class.

Here are Seven English language Writers to Start You Off

• William Shakespeare
The second most-quoted works in the English language are those of this English-born playwright from the 16th century. Use a scene from one of the better-known plays like “Romeo and Juliet”, “Hamlet” or the perennial favorite of many, “MacBeth”. Either of the two scenes with the three witches can be easily dramatized for even greater impact.

• Theodore Seuss Geisel
More commonly known as “Dr. Seuss”, his works for children are still growing in popularity. Several are animated films and a couple of others, like “Horton Hears a Who”, "The Cat in the Hat" and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” are full length feature films.

• The Holy Bible
No matter what region of the world you might be from, your first language or religious beliefs, the Holy Bible is recognized as a historic, prophetic work and book of Supreme wisdom. It is the world’s most-quoted book by far. Almost every knows at least a few passages from the Bible and perhaps parents could input their favorites to your EFL learners.

• Edgar Allen Poe
If your learners like horror and suspense stories, then this is the author for them. Considered to be the “inventor” of the short story writing format, Poe’s works, wholly or in part, have also been made into plays, dramas and movies many times over. Which one of his chilling tales is your favorite?

• Ernest Hemingway
If you haven’t heard of Hemingway then you’ve obviously been living on the moon.
“The Old Man and the Sea” is but one perennial favorite. When American English speakers talk about writing, he is their prime shining example.

• Louis L’Amour
One genre particular to America is the Western. One of this genre’s most popular and prolific authors is Louis L’Amour with his detailed stories of the Old West and frontier. If you want to convey a true sense of what the Old West must have been like, then you can’t do any better than to read a few of his highly entertaining stories.

• Robert Frost
A Poet-Laureate of the United States, (pictured above) Robert Frost’s poems cover a range of topics and situations. He read his works before presidents of the U.S. and are required reading in schools across the country. Try “Fire and Ice” or “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening” to introduce him to your EFL learners.

Whatever Your Preferences

Whatever the preferences of you and your EFL learners might be, there are a plethora of authors, writers and poets to intrigue and delight you. Take a little time to search the internet for some of its treasure troves of English literature and poetry to use with your EFL learners. They’ll enjoy it and be introduced into yet another of the many wonders and pleasures of the English language.


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.

Cna Yuo Raed Tihs?

Cna Yuo Raed Tihs?

Recently, while opening my email I came across this very interesting message. It was basically a message where the letters of each word were all scrambled. The first and the last letters were kept intact, but between them they were all mixed. Surprisingly enough I could read it perfectly. The message is below. Can you read it?

fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too. Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe out of 100 can.

i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno’t mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt!

More than 55 out of 100
They say that only 55 people out of 100 can read that way. I would believe this number to be higher considering that I haven’t found anyone yet who couldn’t read it.

What do you think?


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.

English Language Teaching: How Many Ways Can You Use Music?

How Many Ways Can You Use Music in Teaching English as a foreign or second language?

Do you like music? Do your learners like music too?

How about using music and songs to teach English as a foreign language? In upcoming posts we'll discuss the particular use of music, songs and melody in the teaching of English and other foreign languages. But first, I'd like to share a little music with you. You don't have to know Spanish to enjoy this musical clip of a student jazz singer and band performing during a Teacher's Day celebration in Cali, Colombia at the Santiago de Cali University.

I hope you enjoy it.

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.