[NIFL-ESL:8341] methods

From: Paul Rogers (englishtoday2002@yahoo.com)
Date: Wed Nov 20 2002 - 16:02:06 EST


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From: Paul Rogers <englishtoday2002@yahoo.com>
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Subject: [NIFL-ESL:8341] methods
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     I began to write my texts about 12 years ago
while I was teaching ESL in Mexico. At that time my
wife (now ex) and I started a small school, and found
that these texts were very useful and also liked by
the students.
     I suppose I should call my method a phonetic
method, primarily because I concentrate on
pronunciation at first, while the student builds a
working vocabulary.
     I have observed that when a student feels
comfortable pronouncing English, then she or he is
able to advance with confidence.
     Also, if a student cannot pronounce words with
ease, that student cannot understand spoken English
very well either.
    The order in which I use my texts has been:
1. Vocabulario basico in conjunction with
pronunciation - "11 reglas." 
2. Cognates - also during the same time frame as #1.
3. Grammar 1 
4. Then the History of the US and songs.

    Recently I started to re-write the first text,
such that the pronunciation rules are introduced
within the lesson, for example:
    the alphabet
    pronunciation of g, j, and v
    rrepeticon of the alphabet
    "how do you spell..your name, my name,
English,etc.?
    the numbers
    pronunciation of short u ("numbers"), th (three,
thirteen), short i (six) silent e at end of word
(five, nine), etc.
    how much is ...1 and 1, 2 and 1, etc.
    greetings (saludos)
    pronunciation of h, use of "you" etc.

     Previously I sent an essay on using songs to
teach pronuncation and grammar. Poetry is also very
effective. 
     Within three months, most of my students get a
good grasp of pronunciation and a working vocabulary,
and then want to learn verb tenses. The grammar
workbook is very popular with many beginning students.
     Then, I introduce graded readers, such as the
history of the US and civics. Then popular songs, such
as the "oldies" and anything slow and understandable.
     So, I think that my "course" can provide a good
basis for at least 6 months for beginning students. 
    As I mentioned, I believe it is important for
students to own their own texts and to read as much as
possible.
     I have also produced some audio-tapes, which I
sell at about cost, and soon should be able to start a

video course.
     Anyway, I am very pleased that there was so much
interest, and I look forward to hearing from people.
Sincerely,
Paul Rogers


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