Bring This I Believe Podcasts, Essays into Your ESL classrooms
Why Bring ‘This I Believe’ Essays and Podcasts Into Your
English Classroom?
What are your core beliefs? More importantly, what are the
core beliefs of your English students? How do you know? Do you like listening
to quality radio essays to improve listening skills and critical thinking
skills? Are you looking for a friendly way to gently nudge your EFL students
into reflecting on their experiences and expressing their ideas?
If so, you might want to consider adding This I Believe radio essays to your
curriculum. This I Believe, originally a radio program hosted by legendary
journalist Edward R. Murrow in the 1950s, has been resurrected by National Public Radio as a weekly feature.
While the 1950s version sought out short personal essays by
leading intellectuals, artists, and prominent personalities, the 21st
century version is far more democratic. Anybody can submit an essay – and
thousands and thousands of individuals around the world – have.
English teachers and global travelers might appreciate the
sample podcast This I
Believe: Inviting the World to Dinner by travel writer and Parisian
resident Jim Haynes. Students might also appreciate the open spirit and
generosity, but if not, they can choose from over 200 other radio essays. In
short, The This I Believe website includes a tremendous amount of free
resources for teachers and students. Teachers can sign up for the free mailing
list and download an exceptional discussion guide. Amazon also sells several
collections of This I Believe essays from both the modern version (with audio)
and the original collections from over 50 years ago.
Why don’t you try it in your English class? Here is a simple reproducible homework
worksheet that allows English students to find, summarize, and share their own
favorite podcasts. I usually have students “introduce” their choice in both
small groups and before the entire class. After students have listened to
several “this I believe” radio essays, they feel more comfortable writing their
essay and presenting it before the class for a final project.
So far, my intermediate and advanced students have both
enjoyed the assignment and produced original, reflective work. The flexible
format also means that English teachers can modify it to meet student or course
requirements. Writing instructors can ask for essays; speech instructors can
require a speech. Yet students get an often rare chance to hear intelligent
voices reveal their personal philosophies in an engaging manner. Further, our
students get to speak their minds and share their insights in our strange,
wonderful language. I believe that makes a compelling English class too!
As Mr. Murrow would say, “good night and good luck.”
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This I Believe Homework Worksheet
Links: This I Believe
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4538138
Pleaseselect one radio segment, based on a personal essay, and read by
writers. Find a story that resonates with you. Listen carefully. Take notes.
Fill out the worksheet below. You will be asked to share your selection with
classmates in both a small group and the entire class.
Student:
This I Believe Title:
Author/Reader:
Length:
Who is the author?
What’s the main idea?
Why did you choose this podcast?
Did you hear any new words or phrases?
1.
2.
3.
Who do you imagine is the audience for this podcast? Why?
What is your reaction?
Why?
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