Beelinguapp is an app where English is acquired through the parallel texts method. This method divides text-based content into two sections: the language the learner speaks and the language they want to learn. An audio option allows for hearing the text while reading along. Learners have access to a variety of free content that includes fairy tales, chapters from classic books, song lyrics, news articles on diverse topics and travel guides. The content is organized into four levels: materials that are appropriate for children, and adult beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Although instructors may want to incorporate this app into their lessons, it is an excellent tool to use for independent learning as students can access the app easily on their mobile phones. The app is available for both Android and iOs.
Reviewed August 2023
A children's K-8 website containing word games, spelling and vocabulary practice, online books, and a superhero video series. It's divided by grade level; English learners will enjoy the colourful and easy to navigate site with engaging practice materials that are suitable for their level.
Free access:
This free educational website houses 2,000 lessons for a global audience, covering 180 topics, primarily designed to improve technology skills for learners of all ages. There are tutorials to improve knowledge of Microsoft Office, iPads and other devices, and how to use social media. In addition, there are lessons in the Essential Skills of reading and mathematics, and English language learning.
The English language feature for ESL students is suitable for intermediate/high level learners. The lessons are for grammar, reading skills. Instructions are available in several languages, including Arabic, Spanish, Chinese and Korean. The lessons have video and interactive features as well. Teacher guides and resources are available, and instructors can customize lessons.
This link provides access to academic resources for both teachers and students including grammar practice, workplace writing, and information on academic integrity. Recommended for CLB 6+.
Bow Valley College and Conestoga College have developed tools for creating PBLA rubrics.
Many teachers have found Conestoga's LINC Assessment Generating Tool helpful. The tool includes a complete list of competency statements, indicators and profiles of ability, all in one place. Also included - a guide to question levels by CLB, features of communication, and sample assessment tasks for instructional reference. You must have a Tutela account to access this resource.
Bow Valley College has developed clear, easy-to-use assessments and templates for Portfolio-Based language Assessment (PBLA). Their toolbox contains:
- Tool 1: Assessment Templates
- Tool 2: Instructor Administered Templates
- Tool 3: Learner Reflections
- Tool 4: Self-Assessments
This web resource is maintained by teachers in the LINC ASSIST Community Services Centre, in Edmonton, Alberta. Its purpose is to provide resources and an implementation guide for teachers using PBLA in their own LINC classrooms. The site is easy to navigate.
The "PBLA" section will take you to resources and examples of how to implement PBLA. "Teaching Resources" links to a variety of theme and skill-based resources. Some resources are Alberta-based and designed for ASSIST settings. Also note, Word docs on the website cannot be viewed on mobile devices.
This open access journal is published twice yearly by the University of Hawaii. Issues as far back as 1983 are available for free online. Recent article topics include: Constructing Diagnostic Reading Instruments, Lexical profiling and Teaching Vocabulary.
The TESL Journal Archives contain a treasure trove of links to a wide variety of resources. The links are separated into groups for students and teachers. You'll find games, podcasts, quizzes, pronunciation guides, speaking, spelling, and professional development materials. (Be aware that there are several broken links.)
Free access:
Designed for use with children, but applicable to adult classrooms, Tools for Educators provides links to free generators for producing puzzles, games and worksheets with pictures or other classroom materials. Some examples: crossword, word search, dice maker, printable board games, Bingo, dominos, spelling and tracing worksheets (for literacy learners).
There is a large collection on Tutela relating to literacy. While the full collection has not been reviewed, it is an excellent starting point for developing literacy curriculum and assessment.
Topics:
- Literacy Tools and Templates
- Listening Assessments
- Speaking Assessments
- Reading Assessments
- Writing Assessments
- Literacy Goal Setting
- Module and Lesson Planning
- Literacy Webinars
Free to join. Free access nationally. Must register before accessing information. Search Tutela Collections.
Register at:
https://tutela.ca/
Learning English is Voice of America’s (VOA) source of digital news and information for English learners worldwide. VOA is a news network and radio station that broadcasts a wide range of programming around the world. The video and audio resources, which are drawn from current news, are separated into beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. There is also a free assessment that will help English language learners determine their level of English proficiency. The various resources that are available on the website work well for group work or independent learning. There are also a variety of teaching materials that instructors will find useful for lesson planning. These resources are free to use.
Last reviewed August 2023
Developed by the Manitoba government in 2008, this resource is intended for beginning English learners. The document contains 6 modules for CLB 1-3 covering issues such as building safety vocabulary, workplace hazards, WHMIS, dressing for safety and reporting hazards and workplace incidents. Lessons contain hand-outs, flashcards, dialogues and games.
Free access:
