Throughout the duration of our ESL 509 class, we have been exposed to various types of CALL and MALL resources. The resources that I was the most surprised about enjoying, are podcasts. After searching through iTunes U, I found 3 podcasts that are relevant for ESL students.
English for Everyone ESL podcast is a great resource for ESL learners at all levels and abilities. The blog highlights American culture, with tips on conversational skills. It also goes in depth on the concepts that can be challenging for L2s, like idioms, and grammar rules. There is a slower version of the podcast at the end of each episode, which could greatly benefit some ESL learners.
This podcast's goal is to help L2s to learn English through listening. It is one the most consistently updated podcasts I've found. The podcast can be counter intuitive at times to tradition ESL learning, so this may be better suited for older L2s. It does not get into the nitty gritty rules of English, but is geared towards making learning occur faster and conversations easier.
This ESL podcast is for intermediate to advanced ESL learners. It is lively and fun for anyone to listen to. It not only can help L2s develop their language, but discusses life in the United States, and cultural aspects that are critical for L2s to be exposed to.
I like that English for Everyone gives ESL learners conversational skills and think that the slower version can definitely be beneficial. I haven't heard of Adept English, but like that it is consistently updated. I'm glad that you pointed out that it may be better for older students, as I'm not sure it would work with my second graders. I also reviewed All Ears English and like all of the different topics they provide!
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