Tool # 4

Google Docs is fabulous! I can see my students writing in a journal and having a partner comment in real time. I can imagine the ESOL students asking and answering getting to know you questions on different themes and topics:)

Tool # 3

Videos are invaluable for my ESOL class. The classical music is used in the Newcomer program to enhance retention of the readings. Students can also watch short videos for fables and other stories and then write sentences and questions about them. It's great for providing background information to fill in knowledge about culture, literature, and music!

Here is another great video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=iUhe40dR3ME
When it comes to copyright and fair use, I basically stick to YouTube to avoid complications and because it is an incredible source of material that is never ending in its richness and variability! Amazing!
I created a Dropbox account and could use this next year by creating a class account linked to my classroom devices. Then students could access documents and pictures from both the teacher and their fellow classmates as they collaborate on a project.

Tool # 2

I enjoyed visiting several blogs from the Northbrook faculty and staff. Sometimes, we are so busy at school, it's hard to find time for a conversation. However, with blogging, you can find out what people are thinking about!

Tool #1

VOKI is one of my favorite tools for ESOL. I used it this spring with my students. They created their VOKI avatar and then combined it with an original poem. The fact that VOKI can give a voice to their words is a great way for ESOL students to practice their pronunciation while enjoying listening to their own words and poetic expression!