By Linda Reed
Zoom requires joyful exuberance (i.e. a little more enthusiasm), but it is worth it! We “meet” as a leadership team 15 minutes early, and as students “arrive,” we ask a warm-up question such as “what did you do last weekend” to practice past tense.
Then, using the ‘Breakout Room’ feature, we discuss the SOCEM conversation guides which students now receive previously by email. If we are all in one group, we use the ‘Chat’ and ‘Whiteboard’ features to type out new vocabulary or review pronunciation.
After an hour in small groups, we regroup for a happy coffee break—allowing students free conversation to connect with friends (which they love). In this second hour, we include a gentle “reading lesson” from Scripture, drawing out grammar points, or paragraph summaries. The highlight is usually a fun game (such as Scattegories using the ‘Screenshare’ feature). At the end of class, we wave goodbye while we quickly share “what will you do this weekend” to practice future tense. At times, we part with a warbled ‘Happy Birthday’ and the memory of laughter.
Editor’s Note: If you wish to get to know about, or expand your knowledge of, Zoom for ESL classes, Linda has offered to host a ‘Zoom practice class’ for leaders on a Thursday evening in June, either on June 18 or June 25. Please email jennifercheeyee@gmail.com to sign up, with your preferred date.