Richard Gabbrielli

A prudent question is one half of wisdom. – Francis Bacon (philosopher) 1561–1626 Invariably, when I invite my students to ask me questions to get to know me (better), especially on the first day of class to create the right atmosphere and to establish a conducive teaching-learning environment, a familiar pattern of questions emerges. I also realised that this happens regardless of whether the questions come spontaneously from individuals around the classroom in an open-floor format or in written form (anonymously) on paper in small, structured groupwork after a process of interaction. Common questions asked of me tend to be of the...

Using a standard pack of playing cards as prompts the teacher sets up the framework for learners to use their imagination to create a story.

These activities can be adapted for any level.

The article describes the different approaches to reading we all have. The author suggests teachers encourage reading as a bridge to the outside world.

An activity to practise extended speaking