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. A Spanish-language version of the Guide is also available.
Expand All Guide SectionsESL 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 more motivated and disciplined when learning English, and may work harder than younger students.
Insights for ESL for Adults
- Don’t get fooled into paying for resources. Although some pay sites offer dependable content, you’re just as likely to find great stuff somewhere else. The Web is full of free resources and we’ll show you where to look.
- If you have access to computers in your room, there are many sites that offer listening exercises and interactive language activities. These can be good for both advanced and struggling students.
Top Sites for ESL for Adults
For ESL lesson plans and other resources …
Adult Education ESL Teachers Guide
offers a step-by-step introduction to teaching ESL for adults. Find advice for getting started as well as beginning and intermediate lesson plans.
The Internet TESL Journal
has more than 10 years worth of archived information for ESL teachers. Look for teaching techniques, articles and lesson plans, or browse the issues by topic using the navigation bar at the top of the page.
EduFind
is a great place to find quick help on English grammar, punctuation and writing. The best part of the site, however, is the English testing. Register for free to access tests, games and quizzes.
For interactive ESL exercises, quizzes and puzzles …
Activities for ESL Students
has quizzes, puzzles and help for ESL teachers. Also find a full section on bilingual quizzes for use in the classroom.
Aardvark’s English Forum
has easy-to-use, interactive exercises and quizzes for ESL students of all levels. The exercises provide a challenge for students who need extra help and those who are ahead of the class.
Dave’s ESL Café
warehouses ESL information for teachers and students. Teachers will find lesson plans and job information. Students can get help with pronunciation, take quizzes and ask for help in the Help Center.
For an online ESL teaching community …
Teachers.net
hosts a chat for ESL teachers that sparks discussion about shared questions and concerns, and allows teachers to share resources.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The TOEFL, Test of English as a Foreign Language, is an important tool in helping ESL students prepare for college or advance a career. Students wanting to enter American universities must take the test and many large companies offer salary and promotion incentives for those who prove themselves proficient in English.
Insights for the TOEFL
- The TOEFL is not inexpensive and as with any learning, practice makes perfect. Readiness is key to earning a passing score.
Top Sites for the TOEFL
Educational Testing Service
explains the major components of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), publishes dates and places where the test is administered, and offers links to many testing resources.
TestMagic
is a great resource for frequently asked questions, online tests and sample essays for the Test of English as a Foreign Language.
Ralph’s ESL Junction
is maintained by Ralph Sabio, an ESL instructor in South Korea, with his wife, Anna. Their site provides a number of TOEFL preparation tests and activities.
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