Teach English Now! Second Language Listening, Speaking, and Pronunciation

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/tesol-speaking

Introduction

### Course Review: Teach English Now! Second Language Listening, Speaking, and Pronunciation As the world continues to globalize, the demand for English language proficiency has never been higher. For educators, especially those teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), mastering the nuances of listening and speaking is critical. "Teach English Now! Second Language Listening, Speaking, and Pronunciation," offered on Coursera, tackles these challenges head-on, providing both theoretical insights and practical strategies for teaching English. #### Course Overview This course is designed for current and aspiring ESL teachers who wish to enhance their understanding of the linguistic challenges their students face in listening and speaking. The curriculum delves into critical aspects such as paralinguistics, performance variables, and regional dialects, while also equipping educators with effective teaching methodologies. Each module targets common hurdles learners encounter and emphasizes practical strategies to improve both teaching effectiveness and student comprehension. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Basic Principles of Listening** In the first module, the course introduces learners to the fundamental characteristics of listening. It discusses aspects that often make listening a daunting task for language learners and presents essential listening strategies. The clear explanations and relatable examples set a solid foundation for understanding why listening is often undervalued in language learning. 2. **Listening Strategies** Building upon the previous module, this section introduces practical listening strategies. Both students and teachers learn indispensable techniques to simplify the listening process, helping students gain confidence and proficiency in their listening skills. The focus on actionable strategies makes this module particularly useful for classroom application. 3. **Basic Principles of Speaking** Speaking can be one of the most challenging areas for language learners, and this module doesn't shy away from addressing the cognitive, social, and affective demands that accompany speaking tasks. It also provides educators with invaluable insights into the common challenges in teaching speaking, allowing for a better understanding of learner struggles. 4. **Speaking Strategies** Here, learners explore various speaking strategies that empower students to take control of their own speaking abilities. This module also highlights effective instructional strategies that teachers can seamlessly integrate into their lessons, facilitating a more supportive and interactive classroom environment. 5. **Teaching Pronunciation** Pronunciation is often overlooked in ESL classes, yet it plays a vital role in communication. This module focuses on how to incorporate pronunciation into listening and speaking lessons, discussing potential barriers and strategies for teaching pronunciation. The practical guidance provided here is particularly beneficial for instructors looking to enhance their students' verbal skills. 6. **Assessment** The course concludes with a comprehensive review and assessment. This includes a final checkpoint quiz and a peer review assignment, which encourage reflective learning and help consolidate the skills acquired throughout the course. #### Learning Experience The course structure is intuitive and engaging, with a mix of video lectures, quizzes, and peer interaction. The instructors are knowledgeable and provide real-world examples that enrich the learning experience. Additionally, the peer review component encourages collaboration and feedback, making it an interactive environment that supports both theoretical and practical learning. #### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend “Teach English Now! Second Language Listening, Speaking, and Pronunciation” to all educators involved in teaching English to non-native speakers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this course offers clarity on complex topics and practical teaching methods that can be applied immediately in the classroom. The course caters to a broad audience, from novice teachers to seasoned educators seeking fresh insights into effective listening and speaking instruction. With its strong emphasis on actionable strategies and comprehensive feedback systems, this course is an invaluable asset for anyone committed to fostering effective language acquisition. In summary, dive in and enrich your teaching toolkit with this fantastic resource!

Syllabus

Basic Principles of Listening

In this module, learners are introduced to some of the fundamental elements of listening, including features that make listening a difficult chore for language learners. Learners are also introduced to basic listening strategies.

In this module, learners are introduced to strategies that students can use to simplify listening and take control of improving their listing skills. Learners are also introduced to strategies teachers can use to make second language listening easier for their students.

In this module, learners are introduced to various cognitive, social and affective demands that make speaking difficult for second language learners. Struggles that teachers face when providing speaking instruction are also discussed.

In this module, learners are introduced to speaking strategies to help language learners take control of their own learning Also, learners are also instructional strategies for speaking that teachers can use in their lessons.

In this module, learners are given the opportunity to think about how to integrate pronunciation into a listening and speaking class. Learners are made aware pronunciation barriers, strategies for teaching pronunciation and how to recycle other teaching strategies and apply them to pronunciation instruction.

Learners watch the final review video to verify their understanding of the course material. Then, they will proceed to the final checkpoint quiz and peer review assignment.