Presents activities found to be useful in English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) classes, including a game in which the teacher guesses the meaning of words in students' native tongues; an exercise in which students write predictions, such as weather forecasting, in English; a game in which students explain the meaning of selected idioms in their own…

The value of student dialog journals written to another student (unknown) rather than to the teacher is described. Thirteen practical tips for implementation are offered. It is noted that the technique is not suitable for all students, nor is it meant to be the only component in a writing program. (Contains 14 references.) (LB)

The University of Wyoming English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) program replaced a laboratory drill with a weekly, one-hour writing tutorial (WT) in which small groups of ESL students meet with a writing tutor. The role of the WT in community building and developing writing and oral skills is described, along with sample questions for a WT group.…

Discusses the use of "buddy journals" between pairs of native and nonnative English-speaking students to help develop the English literacy skills of both groups of students. Guidelines are provided for matching student pairs, evaluating student writing, and allowing for midcourse changes, as well as sample journal topics. (15 references) (MDM)

Five teachers of English as a Second Language describe activities used in their classrooms, including topical student journals in an intensive language course; current events journals; postcard-writing to promote authentic, communicative expression; student-designed bumper stickers; and a fashion show to teach adjective use. (MSE)