Our showcase of your best creative activities in the classroom!
Is it possible to effectively combine creativity with language learning?
Creative activities are a tried and true aspect of teaching; our students use creativity through group work, writing, presentations and so on, it allows them to use the skills and language they have learned in practice and in their own unique way.
Back in June, we sent a call out for submissions, asking you to show us the ways you use creativity to teach English. We wanted to see everything from small class activities to larger programmes and projects.
We were overwhelmed by the response and received some amazing work! The passion and hard work exemplified in the submissions we reviewed showed how driven you are as educators to find new and interesting ways to engage your students in learning.
After a lot of consideration—and much arguing!—we narrowed everything down to our top four favourites that we thought were the best and most unique examples of involving students in enriching and thought-provoking learning.
I especially loved
my ESL teacher in my
American elementary
school who was very
patient and sweet
So, in this Special Supplement, you’ll find some inspiring examples of ways to make learning English interesting, with ages ranging from toddlers to teenagers—though almost all can be adapted to any age group!
We hear from school directors, teachers, and even charity volunteers on how they approach difficult issues, cross cultural divides and allow creative freedom in their classrooms.
In addition to the submitted work, we have also had the privilege to chat with a New York-based writer and illustrator on how being bilingual has influenced her creative work.
We hope you find inspiration and, as always, happy reading!
TIME TO GET POLITICAL
How one class used performing arts to address real world issues
WE NEED TO COMMUNICATE
Teaching communication skills through group projects in digital media
THE BIGGER PICTURE
We chat with an artist and writer about how being bilingual has influenced her work
IN TIMES OF WAR
Teachers and students across three countries use creativity to support those in need
LOOSEN UP
Using ‘loose parts play’ with very young learners
