Is My Textbook Just a Fancy Paperweight? Unveiling the Mysteries of Supplementary Material in ELT

Photo by Cottonbro Studio

by Katherine Reilly, originally published by ELT NEWS printed magazine.

As educators, we often contemplate the necessity of implementing supplementary materials to enhance and appease our students’ potential for learning. However, burdening ourselves with another ‘measly’ task while stacks of uncorrected papers demand our immediate attention is, in itself, a deterrent. Besides, we were told our shiny new textbooks are jam-packed with all the extra tools we need to offer students the most innovative and satisfying approach to embedding the language they so desire to command. ELT publishers have, without a doubt, made incredible advancements in offering the most accessible venue to learning, establishing their textbooks as the backbone of many language programs. Notwithstanding this marvelous feat, there are shortcomings which must be addressed, and addressed they shall! Fear not my disgruntled colleagues; when burdened with extra work, we always take it in our stride and never crib about it.

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The Value of a Positive Student-Teacher Relationship in Class

coolteacher.jpg

by Katherine Reilly

If one were to ask you, what are the most vivid recollections you might have of your childhood, in most cases the answer would likely concern your school years and the relationship you had with your teacher. The impact this bond can have on an individual is without a doubt the most inspiring and everlasting in your life.

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