For ADULT EDUCATION teachers and tutors.
Sessions will not be applicable for K-12 students.
ZOOM links for sessions will be emailed just before the training
8:30 am General Session
Making Meaning with Motion: Using TPR to Teach Vocabulary
Presenter: Betsy Winchester, Literacy Coalition of Colorado
Description: In this short session, participants will learn how to use the Total Physical Response (TPR) method to teach new vocabulary. Participants will also learn a number of words, in a language other than English, through TPR.
CHOOSE ONE from EACH TIME SLOT
9:15 am
A: Tutoring 101
Presenter: Linda Johnson, Literacy Coalition of Colorado
Description: Are you a new volunteer or tutor interested in working with adult literacy students? Don’t know where to start? We will discuss the characteristics of an adult learner, educational techniques and strategies to get you started, as well as some materials.
OR
B: In Their Shoes
Presenter: Debbie Goldman, Independent ELT Consultant
Description: What does it feel like to learn a new language as an adult? In this interactive workshop, attendees will participate in a short lesson as students. Based on this hands-on experience, we’ll discuss feelings and factors that lead to increased learning and retention.
OR
C: Five Strategies for Tutors to Connect and Engage with Learners
Presenter: Cara Messick, Family Care Center
Description: During this interactive session participants will gain a greater understanding of the readiness to learn; identify barriers to learning; and understand and practice strategies to engage learners.
10:30 am
A: Learner Centered Adult Instruction
Presenter: Tiffany Curtin, Douglas County Libraries
Description: In this workshop, Ms. Curtin will discuss and engage the audience in developing an understanding of learner centered instruction for teaching adults. We will explore key elements of being learner centered such as: growth mindset, respect for learner autonomy, and setting clear boundaries and expectations.
OR
B: Teaching Pronunciation to Adult ESL Students
Presenter: Andrea Heyman, Learning Source
Description: This workshop will teach ESL Instructors to adult learners the fundamentals of teaching pronunciation to individuals or a class. How do we begin to teach pronunciation? How do we show students how to make sounds properly, and how do we correct errors? There will be time for questions, and I can address how to teach specific sounds that are problematic to students.
11:45 am
A: Let’s Start at the Very Beginning: Instruction for Literacy Level Adult Learners
Presenter: Andrea Echelberger, Adult Academic Program Robbinsdale
Description: Do you work with an adult learner or a class of learners who are just beginning to read and write? Tutoring literacy level adult ESL learners has unique rewards and challenges. There are very few textbooks aimed at this level, and it can be difficult to break down their learning goals into smaller, achievable steps. This session will cover suggested goals, processes, and activities for helping adult ESL learners get successfully started on the road to literacy.
OR
B: Is My Student Ready to Apply for Naturalization?
Presenter: Andrew Lambrecht, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS)
Description: Nearly 1 million people became new American citizens in 2022. Millions of lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply for naturalization, and we know many are eager to begin the process. Adult educators who serve those who pursue civics and English education play a vital role in helping people know when they are ready to submit the N-400 application. However, uncertainty about eligibility requirements, the English speaking and understanding portion of the test, and processing times can make deciding when to file a challenge for prospective applicants and their teachers. Join our session to get helpful tips and answers to your questions from a USCIS field office director and an interviewing officer. The information provided will help you give your students good advice so they can move forward in the application process with confidence and excitement. Participants will also receive a guide for adult citizenship teachers focused on key concepts found in the N-400, Application for Naturalization.
