Jorge's blog

Teaching speaking is a dynamic and evolving field in TESOL research.   (📷:goneseoulsearching) S peaking ability is more important today than ever. English has become a global language, making oral fluency a critical skill for learners in academics, career and daily life.   Research emphasises that students need strong speaking skills to participate in international communication and achieve their goals . Yet it’s not easy: many learners remain shy or struggle to speak even after years of study. Studies report that limitations like crowded classes and little authentic practice time leave students short on real conversation practice. In fact, many students struggle with speaking because classrooms often lack opportunities for active communication . Understanding these challenges helps teachers empathise with learners and motivates us to find better solutions. 'What is oracy?' ▶️2m Learning to speak well also builds confidence and community in the classroom. When students su...

Deeper media analysis can foster a more nuanced understanding of both past and present content.   (📷:mylifesnotes) I n today’s online conversations, especially on social media, it is common to read that a beloved movie or show “didn’t age well”.  This phrase often marks the end of debate rather than inviting closer analysis. For example, a magazine notes that older Hollywood classics are full of “blatant examples of racism, misogyny and homophobia” . Viewers then use this as a catch-all reason to dismiss these works outright. But simply declaring content outdated or offensive undercuts any chance to understand why those stereotypes or attitudes appeared. It prevents us from asking questions about the story’s intentions, the creator’s context, or the norms of the time. In effect, saying “it hasn’t aged well” can be a way of avoiding the hard work of examining media critically. 'This didn't age well... (The Osbournes)' ▶️2m06s This problem is exacerbated by our current f...