Many adults want to learn English for a variety of reasons. Some move to English speaking countries like the United States or United Kingdom. Others want to learn English because they enjoy learning new languages, or they would like to strengthen their resume. This article focuses on adults moving to the United States.
Start new in a foreign country can be a difficult for many adults. Not only will they juggle family and work responsibilities, they will have to learn the language and the new culture. In the beginning of living in the U.S., learning the English language may not be top priority because adults have to make sure other needs are met. When adults do take decide to learn English, many will take English as a Second Language (ESL) course, usually through the community college or centers. These ESL courses should teach English and practical knowledge to live and succeed in the U.S. Not only will they learn English, but they will be able to apply what they learn to their lives.
Below are four ideas to use in an ESL classroom. These activities can be adapted to the different levels of ESL students.
Balancing a checkbook
Some adults may be familiar with the checkbook, but many are not. Teaching about them how to balance the checkbook may be a refresher to some. Vocabulary associating with balancing a checkbook should be introduced. Parts of the checkbook should be presented to the students. Do a demonstration on how to fill a check. Explain what happens to the check, being cashed at a store, sent to the bank, processed, etc. This should lead to balancing a checkbook. Once again, introduce the appropriate vocabulary words. Do a demonstration of balancing a two or three items. Allow students to practice writing a check and balancing the checkbook.
Introducing coupons
Many businesses in other countries do not offer coupons to consumers. This may be a new item to your students. Explain what a coupon is, and show different examples. Give scenarios with using coupons. Explain to students how this could save money, and why it may be a good idea to use coupons. Explain how students can get coupons from newspapers, business, or online.
Reading classified advertisements
Abbreviations, along with short phrases, usually make up a typical classified advertisement that is found in newspapers, magazines or online. It is important for students to understand how to read these advertisements. Explain to them that they can find a house, vehicle, a wanted item, or even a job. After teaching them abbreviations of the advertisement, offer questions where they have to look in advertisements to find the appropriate answers. Discuss with your students on who uses advertisements.
Filling out forms
Many places in the U.S. require forms to be filled before services and products can be available. Teaching how to fill out forms is perhaps one of the best things that can be taught in an ESL course. Teach students how to read a form, by explaining a sample form and its questions. Fill out a form together in class. Then allow each student to fill out a couple of different forms. Explain to them that they should always read and know what the form says before they complete and sign it.
There are many other resources, from colleagues to published materials that offer ideas on how to teach practical skills while learning English. By teaching practicality, many adults tend to stay and finish the English course because they can apply this in their life. This is saving time for ESL learners.
