Learning to complete complex projects helps prepare ESL students for university.
At Little Mountain Learning Academy, we use a holistic, project-based approach to ESL education. Project-based education goes beyond basic rote-learning and memorization. It is about engaging students with challenging assignments that connect to real-world issues. These projects help students expand their vocabulary and enhance their English language skills as they conduct research, think critically, and find creative solutions to problems that actually impact their lives.
The project-based approach to ESL education helps students develop advanced English skills at a faster rate than many traditional techniques. Read on to discover why students love learning this way, and how it accelerates their acquisition of English.
Project-Based Learning Inspires ESL Students to Work Harder
Assignments that connect with topics and events that students really care about spark intrinsic motivation. When students are truly motivated, they look forward to their after school English courses and engage with course material on a much deeper level. They feel that the work they do has meaning, and are therefore willing to work hard at completing their assignments.
For example, a student in Little Mountain’s Junior Deer class was asked to complete a project describing what he thought was the biggest problem currently facing our planet. The student found this assignment so inspiring that he collected and read through as much information as he could – enhancing his understanding of English vocabulary and grammar along the way. Then, he sifted through that research and came up with a creative solution to the problem he had identified, and synthesized his findings into an essay.
You can see the final, completed project in the visual essay he created and uploaded to Youtube:
Inspiration goes a long way! And when a student truly cares about their project, they remember more of what they learned – which helps them develop fluency in English much faster.
Project-Based Learning Develops Advanced English Language Skills
Project-based learning encourages students to combine their English language skills in new and creative ways. They must conduct research, analyze their findings, give oral presentations and create written reports.
For example, students in Little Mountain’s Rooster class created a project called the ABC book. The purpose of the book was to promote literacy and educate readers about social justice issues. Students had to choose which social justice message they wanted to promote, and find creative ways of incorporating that message into a book that would teach phonics for kids. At the end of the project, students had to present and explain their book to a younger student, in English.
Through this project, the Rooster students developed their:
• Vocabulary
• Research skills
• Ability to work independently
• Critical thinking skills
• Oral Presentation skills
Little Mountain offers English language learning for kids in Vancouver, but our approach goes far beyond typical ESL programs. Our students develop strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills. These skills not only lead to higher academic achievement, but develop long-lasting habits that will help students achieve success in elementary, high school and university!
Are you looking to enrol your child in an after school ESL program? Give us a call at 604-221-2363!
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