Engaging Writing Activities for ESL Learners

Writing is a complex process that involves grammar, spelling, letter formation, vocabulary, punctuation, capitalization, content, and following the directions of the instructor and/or writing prompt. For most of us, this is a complex task. For many ESL students, it is an almost impossible, frustrating, and anxiety ridden process. We will address specific writing challenges ESL learners and teachers face and try out practical and motivating activities for pre-writing, writing warm-up, collaborative and guided writing.

PRESENTER: Heidi Kempt Chew has been an English as a Second Language (ESL) professional for two decades, teaching academic courses as well as community/refugee classes. In addition, she has been as cross-cultural trainer conducting workshops for the International Student Services at the Case Western Reserve University and training volunteers working with international student groups at Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland State University. Heidi holds Masters Degrees in Theology, Journalism, and in Curriculum and Instruction-ESL. Her Ph.D. is in Secondary Education-ESL and Cross-Cultural Training.