implementing multi-literacies in esl learnering
Traditionally, literacy was defined by a print-based world; a world of books and other print media and images. Ultimately, students need to become aware of the different information avenues we’re exposed to in today's modern age and learn to deal with these forms of literate contexts inside and outside the classroom. Thus students build a knowledge and understanding of different literate practices and use these in new and different ways to develop their literacy.
Constructing a multi-modal text is where a number of different modes are used to construct a literate product including words in headings, subheadings, headlines, labels, images, and written texts.
Constructing a multi-modal text is where a number of different modes are used to construct a literate product including words in headings, subheadings, headlines, labels, images, and written texts.
Example 1 - A representation of a multi - modal text
According to Anstey and Bull, the perspective of multiliteracies is not a single entity but consists of a set of multiliteracies that incorporate different cultural contexts and different communication technologies. To be multiliterate, a student must first recognise that a context requires different literate practices such as multiple forms of communication. (Bull, 2006)
Example 2 - Constructing a multi modal text via the use of technology
The emergence of multi-literacies can be seen as students engage in textual practices involving visual and verbal modes of communication. For example, in composing multi-modal texts, students have to decide which information to present in writing and which to present visually or even verbally via a presentation.
Not only can technology, assist in the acquisition of language skills but also aid in the important tasks that are required for mastering curriculum content in English. When appropriate preparation and activities are utilized, technology can assist teachers in meeting the special language and learning needs of ESL students while engaging and motivating them in striving for proficiency.
Recommended websites for implementing multi-literacy tasks in the classroom
http://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/teaching-resources
Provides:
- English Games
- Lesson Plans
- Activity Ideas
- Videos showcasing tips
- Further resourceful links as recommended by the site moderators
- ESL focus
- Separate page for teaching kids
EFL Frog
http://eflfrog.com/
Provides:
- EFL/ESL focus
- For beginner/kids
- Provides free resources upon sign up
- Flashcards, creative game ideas and tips on how to explain things to lower level students
- Articles
- Games for ESL Classroom Teaching
http://www.englishmedialab.com/classroom_games.html
Game show games that teachers can use to create a fun and interactive atmosphere and integrated them into lesson activities and learning. This is only provided if teacher are able to access the internet site within the classroom.
References
Bull, M. A. (2006). Teaching and learning muliliteracies: Changing times, changing literacies. Delaware, USA: IRA.
Not only can technology, assist in the acquisition of language skills but also aid in the important tasks that are required for mastering curriculum content in English. When appropriate preparation and activities are utilized, technology can assist teachers in meeting the special language and learning needs of ESL students while engaging and motivating them in striving for proficiency.
Recommended websites for implementing multi-literacy tasks in the classroom
http://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/teaching-resources
Provides:
- English Games
- Lesson Plans
- Activity Ideas
- Videos showcasing tips
- Further resourceful links as recommended by the site moderators
- ESL focus
- Separate page for teaching kids
EFL Frog
http://eflfrog.com/
Provides:
- EFL/ESL focus
- For beginner/kids
- Provides free resources upon sign up
- Flashcards, creative game ideas and tips on how to explain things to lower level students
- Articles
- Games for ESL Classroom Teaching
http://www.englishmedialab.com/classroom_games.html
Game show games that teachers can use to create a fun and interactive atmosphere and integrated them into lesson activities and learning. This is only provided if teacher are able to access the internet site within the classroom.
References
Bull, M. A. (2006). Teaching and learning muliliteracies: Changing times, changing literacies. Delaware, USA: IRA.
Example 3 - Using graphic novel representations can not only inspire literacy learning but also engage learners
Example 4 - Teaching writing in the digital age