May 13, 2012

Book: Implementing Educational Language Policy in Arizona

From http://www.multilingualmatters.com/display.asp?K=9781847697448

Implementing Educational Language Policy in Arizona: Legal, Historical and Current Practices in SEI
Edited by M. Beatriz Arias and Christian J Faltis
Published by Multilingual Matters

This volume is a unique contribution to the study of language policy and education for English Learners because it focuses on the decade long implementation of “English Only” in Arizona. How this policy influences teacher preparation and classroom practice is the central topic of this volume. Scholars and researchers present their latest findings and concerns regarding the impact that a restrictive language policy has on critical areas for English Learners and diverse students. If a student’s language is sanctioned, do they feel welcome in the classroom? If teachers are only taught about subtractive language policy, will they be able to be tolerant of linguistic diversity in their classrooms? The implications of the chapters suggest that Arizona’s version of Structured English Immersion may actually limit English Learners access to English.

Visit the publisher’s website at http://www.multilingualmatters.com/display.asp?K=9781847697448

Book: Corpus Applications in Applied Linguistics

From http://www.continuumbooks.com/books/detail.aspx?BookId=159033&SubjectId=989&Subject2Id=872

Corpus Applications in Applied Linguistics
Edited by Ken Hyland, Chau Meng Huat, and Michael Handford
Published by Continuum

Description: Corpus linguistics is one of the most exciting approaches to studies in applied linguistics today. From its quantitative beginnings it has grown to become an essential aspect of research methodology in a range of fields, often combining with text analysis, CDA, pragmatics and organizational studies to reveal important new insights about how language works.

This new book of specially commissioned chapters by academics from across the applied linguistics spectrum demonstrates the range and rigor of corpus research in applied linguistics. The volume captures some of the most stimulating and significant developments in the field, including chapters on language teaching, institutional and professional discourse, English as an International Language, translation, forensics and media studies. As a result it goes beyond traditional, limited presentations of corpus work and shows how corpora inform a diverse and growing number of applied linguistic domains.

Visit the publisher’s website at http://www.continuumbooks.com/books/detail.aspx?BookId=159033&SubjectId=989&Subject2Id=872

May 6, 2012

Get Ready for the Olympics and Challenge Your Students

Teachers who want to include the upcoming Olympic Games in their language classrooms will find the official websites helpful - the Olympic Committee’s website is available in English and French at http://www.olympic.org/london-2012-summer-olympics , and there’s an English-language website dedicated specifically to the 2012 games: http://www.london2012.com .

Once you feel a bit oriented to this year’s competition, you and your students can join an ongoing Olympics-based academic competition. At Olympic Challenge 2012 you can propose academic challenges based on the Olympics. Your students can simply try out some of the challenges, or for more competition you can challenge another participating classroom. Learn more about the project and declare your interest at https://docs.google.com/present/view?id=0ASIWpA4pxqCOZGhrNGozaDhfOTRkbWdoOGtjeg&authkey=CO-IvZkM&hl=en_GB-

Top Hits in Different Countries

What are kids in France listening to this week? What about kids in Brazil? Find out what this week’s top hits are in different countries at http://allcharts.org/music

National Network for Early Language Learning Revamps Its Website

From http://www.nnell.org

The National Network for Early Language Learning has re-designed its website. Find resources for professional growth, stay informed of upcoming events, access NNELL publications, and join NNELL at http://www.nnell.org

National Endowment for the Humanities Has a New Website

From http://www.neh.gov/news/press-release/2012-04-10

The National Endowment for the Humanities had launched a comprehensive new website Monday, giving the Endowment a more user-friendly, engaging, and transparent platform for people seeking grants and for the public interested in humanities research, scholarship, and public programs.

After a complete overhaul of the site, grant guidelines and grant management information is clearer and more accessible. A new EXPLORE section allows users to access information about more than 200 documentaries, radio programs, and apps produced by broadcasters and others with NEH grants.

A prominent new rotator will showcase news of NEH and books, seminars, and other projects growing out of Endowment funding.

Explore the revamped website at http://www.neh.gov

Read press releases at http://www.neh.gov/news/press-release/2012-04-10 and http://apaclassics.org/index.php/apa_blog/apa_blog_entry/neh_launces_new_web_site

Teacher’s Website Is Full of Resources for English Language Learners and Teachers

From http://www.oswego.org/webpages/lstevens

Teacher Laura Stevens’ ESL Web Page is full of resources for English language learners, their teachers, and their parents. Teachers can read relevant articles, access SIOP tools, get guidance for how to adapt a lesson for ELL’s, access annotated links to a variety of online resources, and more. Students will find links to quality online resources for improving their English. Parents will find tips, links to supportive organizations, reading activities, and more.

Browse this website at http://www.oswego.org/webpages/lstevens