ESL Class Debate: Will Smith & The Slap Heard Round the World

If your students are anything like mine, all they want to talk about this week is the 2022 Academy Awards fiasco. This speaking activity is a mixture of debate and class discussion to look at the historical event through the context of multiple angles, featuring topics such as: Will Smith, Chris Rock & the Slap…

Class Discussion: La Palma Volcanic Eruption

By now I´m sure you´ve heard about the tragic volcanic eruption in La Isla Bonita, more commonly known as La Palma, one of the stunning islands in the Canary Island archipelago. Here in the Canaries, we´ve been inundated with the tragic news from our neighbouring island. Observing my students live, albeit indirectly, through this historic…

ESL Games: Current Events Trivia

Current Events Trivia for the ESL Classroom When it comes to language learning, my main philosophy is that language is meant for communication above all else. Not to take an exam, not to demand perfect grammar at all times and definitely not to practice the present simple vs. the present continuous every single year forever…

Carnaval in the Classroom: ESL Lesson Plans

One thing I’ve learnt Teaching English abroad is that there are many great opportunities to share your language, culture, traditions and celebrations, but if you want to keep your students completely engaged, try bringing their culture into the classroom! As an added bonus, you’ll learn a ton about local history, culture and traditions from your students! Read on for 10 Carnival activities and lesson plans for the ESL classroom!