In this paper, the author introduces some specific L1 activities she uses in her ESL composition class. She also discusses her own experience as an ESL student and how that experience encouraged her to incorporate each student's L1 in her classroom. This paper presents a collaborative model of teacher development that brings out the unique strengths from both NS and NNS teachers by facilitating cooperation between the two groups. An example of a collaborative community of teachers in the ESL Writing Program at Purdue University is also presented. The author looks at the recent growth of English as an international language in Taiwan and discusses current market conditions and future trends for learning and teaching English in Taiwan.
Specific information is included.
ITA programs traditionally present American classroom language, culture, and teaching methods. However, students also need to learn about professionalism, such as the use of documentation styles, devising syllabi, using e-mail and professional listservs, writing a C.V. and dealing with diverse learning styles. Meeting these often neglected needs enriches these courses greatly.