STRAIGHT—TALK
in plain english
LESSONS
Making Every Class Count
RESEARCH POSTERS
BACKCHANNEL CUES
Discourse analysis was performed to contrast backchannel usage between native English and Spanish speakers. Differences in terms of frequency, form, function, and position were analyzed. Reasoning for identified differences and teaching implications were discussed. The research was presented in an open forum at the Auburn Public Library.
ASSESSMENTS
Assessments are not just a means for ascertaining competency and assigning grades. Carefully designed assessments support learning by providing valuable feedback to both the instructor and learner so that lessons and activities can be tailored to the learning needs of the student.
ASSESSMENT PRINCIPLES
When designing assessments, five main principles must be considered and balanced: practicality, reliability, validity, authenticity, and washback. This instructor manual delivers a summary of each of the principles along with a sample task, analysis, and modifications for English language learners.
PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT
This English proficiency exam was designed to progressively assess ESOL students in all four domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The test was administered to native, adult Korean speakers on a one-to-one basis. The assessment was well received and seemed to produce accurate results.