Contextualized ESOL in the Workplace: Lessons Learned From a US DOL –funded CUNY Demonstration Project
Presenter(s): Melinda Thomsen, LaGuardia Community College Center for Immigrant Education and Training
Tania Ramirez, LaGuardia Community College Center for Immigrant Education and Training
Stacy Teter, Kingsborough Community College, Kingsborough English Language Institute
Room: Albany

In this workshop we will highlight courses provided and outcomes achieved during vocational ESOL courses taught as part of the US DOL-funded CUNY Demonstration Project partnership providing ESOL training to employees of corporate partners. This workshop, taught by the teachers themselves, will give an overview of the partnership and discuss integrated/contextualized English curricula in the retail field, highlighting specific examples and outcomes from several of the courses taught.

The Use of Journals and Letters in Adult Education
Presenter(s): E. Michael Brady, Ph. D., University of Southern Maine
Room: Colonie

Personal writing can be and often is a powerful learning tool for adults. This workshop will focus attention on two forms of writing: journals and letters. A brief theoretical overview of personal writing as a way of learning will be reviewed followed by specific applications of journals and letters with adult learners. Findings from original research conducted at the University of Southern Maine will also be shared.

Opening the Doors for the Marginalized ESL Student: How to Use Creative Listening, Art, Poetry, Reading, and
Responding Techniques
Presenter(s): Linda Redfield Shakoor, Orleans/Niagara BOCES
Room: Schenectady/Troy

Jazz chants, poetry, pottery, and reading and writing without a textbook are some of the several strategies offered in this workshop. The successful use of these strategies, and other tools to be shared, will enhance self-esteem and build confidence in your ESL student. If you are looking for new ways to motivate your students… this workshop is for you.

Make Math Fun – Tips for Teachers
Presenter(s): John F. Gatje, G&G Publishers
Charles T. Gatje, G&G Publishers
Room: Salon A

Understanding Math Basic Skills is the key to enjoying learning. Enjoying learning is a prerequisite to continued learning. This workshop will provide participants tips and tools to help make teaching math easier and learning math more fun. Participants will receive a free lesson they can use in the classroom.

Strategies for Students with Learning Disabilities
Presenter(s): Melinda Burns, Wildwood Programs
Room: Salon B

This workshop will focus on effective strategies that can be used to assist individuals with learning disabilities, diagnosed or not, succeed academically. You will experience practical learning and study strategies that will be easy to use to address a wide variety of learning needs.

Maximizing Partnerships with Your School District and K-12 System
Presenter(s): Nicole Viggiano, Greece Central School District Community Education
Room: Salon C

Are you ready to bridge the divide between your adult literacy program and your K-12 program? Think it can’t be done? The Greece Central School District has started two new programs in partnership with K-12. Join us to see the success of these partnerships and hear some tips on how you can collaborate within your own district and/or local areas.