New! Free Resources to Train Adult ESL Teachers and Volunteers

Abstract: All ESL programs want their learners to experience high-quality teaching, whether it is delivered by a full-time professional teacher, a part-time teacher who is new to the field, or a classroom volunteer. This session will share resources that have been developed to increase the teaching skills and confidence of classroom teachers and volunteers who may have limited time for training and varying levels of expertise. Throughout the session, participants will have the opportunity to explore the Minnesota Literacy Council’s classroom activity videos, mini-trainings toolkit, and ESL small-group pull-out kits. These resources will support teachers and volunteers in areas such as giving effective feedback, delivering activity instructions, and using appropriate amounts of teacher talk. The presenter will recommend ways for programs to use these free resources to support teachers and volunteers, and participants will share their own ideas through facilitated discussions.