CONTACT | Identity
Exploring code-switching in Persian-English bilingual children: Lessons for language educators
Abstract
Code-switching, a common phenomenon among bilinguals, serves as a strategic tool for effective communication rather than a reflection of linguistic inadequacy. This article examines code-switching among Persian-English bilingual children during storytelling, shedding light on its triggers, cultural implications, and relevance to language education. By leveraging findings from qualitative research, it offers practical strategies for…
Navigating language and life: Supporting immigrant learners in their ESL journey
I came to Canada in June 2022 as an immigrant because of the conflict in Ukraine, so I know directly how difficult it is to start over in a new country. I currently teach English as an additional language (EAL) to adult immigrants at ISANS, mostly dealing with students at Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) levels 1…
Considerations for fostering students’ sense of self in the foreign language
Abstract
It is a common concern among second-language (L2) learners to feel that their identity changes when speaking a foreign language compared to their mother tongue (L1). To some extent, this is a natural process and relates to the new possibilities of viewing the world offered by the new language; on the other hand, it…
The language I love or my love language?
कोस-कोस पर बदले पानी, चार कोस पर वाणी (Kos-kos par badle paani, chaar kos par vaani). The English translation of this famous Hindi idiom is: In India, the taste of water changes after every mile & language after every four miles. This rhyming poetic aphorism reflects the diversity of languages and dialects in India (Narayan,…
Anxiety during the Silent Period: Anxiety of the unknown specifically for temporary and refugee claimant students
Abstract
This article focuses on the importance of supporting all English language learners, specifically those who endure an added level of stress due to their immigration journey. In this article, I will raise awareness by pointing out the importance of not only being aware of temporary/visa/no status students but also to be more compassionate while teaching them.…
Diversity, equity, and inclusion: Dialoguing with TESL Ontario members
Abstract
This article reports and comments on findings from a TESL Ontario membership survey and synchronous dialogue session inquiring about challenges and opportunities related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in English Language Teaching classrooms and workplaces. The findings reveal that TESL Ontario members have most frequently experienced ageism and ethnic and cultural…
