English as a Second Language (ESL): Lesson Plans, Resources and More
More people in more places are speaking English than ever before. As worldwide dependence on English has spread, so has the need for people of all ages and language backgrounds to learn it. Use this English as a Second Language (ESL) Web Guide to find lesson plans designed for both adult and child learners along with valuable resources to help adults prepare for important tests. For a Spanish-language version of the Guide, click here.
ESL for Children
Teaching ESL for children may be easier than teaching adults because children are just beginning to learn the intricacies of English pronunciation, spelling and grammar.
Insights for ESL for Children
- There are many great books available for teaching English as a second language for children. One for younger students is “Edutainment”; it explores ESL teaching through fun and games.
- We usually avoid recommending sites that are mere directories of links to outside sources. In our Education Web Guides, we make exceptions to this rule for lesson plans and student activities to provide you with as much helpful content as possible. Make sure to approach every directory with caution and evaluate the links before using a tool in the classroom.
Top Sites for ESL for Children
For ESL lesson plans …
everythingESL
offers resources for teaching K–12 ESL students. Choose from lesson plans that provide tips for teaching both beginner and intermediate students, along with handouts and activity forms.
For ESL reading and grammar resources …
BeginningReading.com
has a number of free printable worksheets and blackline masters that promote early reading. If you like the free online resources, you can buy the printed materials for $15.
Grammar Bytes
offers help with common grammar terms and has hundreds of handouts. Visit the “Tips & Rules” section to help fix common grammar problems quickly.
For ESL listening exercises …
ManyThings.org
offers a full spectrum of ESL resources from easy picture and word games to interactive MP3 activities that focus on pronunciation and reading. Start with Easy Things for Beginners for resources for children.
For teaching ESL with music …
Forefront Publishers'
"ESL Through Music" offers lesson plans, articles and other resources to get you started.
ESL for Adults
Teaching ESL for adults can be especially rewarding because adults are usually ... read more »
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The TOEFL, Test of English as a Foreign Language, is an important tool in helping ... read more »






