English as a Second Language Week - 2006

ESL Week is an opportunity to give due recognition of both those who have contributed and those who have benefited from ESL learning in Ontario. It celebrates ESL learners, teachers, instructors, international students and their hosts.

In 2006, TESL affiliates and ESL centres, schools, colleges and universities recognized ESL Week with a variety of events and activities such as:

Hosted a writing contest (story and/or poetry)

• Elementary/secondary/adult or beginner/intermediate/advanced categories
• Topics: learner’s experiences as an ESL student or newcomer living in Canada, stories related to teaching and learning English, autobiography, My Journey: Tears to tears of Joy
• Winning entries can be posted at the local library, school board office, LINC Service provider office, mall display
• Entries could be introduced at a ‘Reading’

Organized a Poster Contest/Logo Contest

Hosted an Open House

• Included cultural displays, live dancing, a talent show, a fashion show
• Tasting booths with international cuisine
• Around the World theme – each room reflects a learner’s country or continent  with artifacts and hands-on-activities to engage visitors

Organized an Art Exhibition/Display

• Show in centre, school, mall, library
• Action photos of program, classroom
• Drawings, paintings, sculptures, prints, jewellery, photographs

Compiled and publishing an International Cookbook

Hosted an International Film Festival

• Films produced in the native countries of learners
• Cultural documentaries

Organized a Reading Buddy Marathon

• Elementary – Secondary
• Child – adult
• L2 and L1 students

Hosted an Pre-work/lunch social

• Invite co-workers in building, neighbourhood, other school grade teachers, agency workers

Held a Speech Fest

Invited local MPP/MP/Mayor to visit ESL school/site

Celebrated with class parties

• Potluck of traditional foods from various countries