This post was contributed by Bob Pensak, owner of “Bob’s English” in Okazaki, Japan and author of the blog “Bob’s Frog.” I have been singing, gesturing, and performing Super Simple Songs ever since I discovered them three years ago. Since then, I have collected small ways to make the songs even more enjoyable and funny…. Read more »
Music and Movement – Using Gestures
One way to really enhance language development in the classroom or at home is through the use of music and gestures together. There are a number of studies that indicate that both music and gestures on their own greatly assist learning (see “Songs as an aid for language acquisition“, “Gesturing makes learning last“, and “Music… Read more »
Christmas Topics – Toys
We know that this time of year isn’t just about giving and receiving presents, but the holidays do provide a great opportunity to talk about gifts and toys. Many children get quite excited at the idea of Santa coming for his annual visit and want to discuss the possibilities. “What do you want for Christmas?”… Read more »
Christmas Topics – Counting and Numbers
No matter how old your students are, from very young to elementary age, counting and numbers are always a topic worth reviewing. You can easily add a quick counting activity as part of any lesson. Use a song (“Count & Move” is the perfect active song to review numbers and get some wiggles out!), or… Read more »
How’s the Weather?
Ah…winter. As the seasons change, it’s a great time to discuss the weather. In some places, like here in Tokyo for example, the weather during the winter can vary dramatically from week to week and even day to day. When your students come to class, asking them “How’s the weather?” will help them become familiar… Read more »
Christmas Topics – Prepositions of Place
Prepositions of place can be a little hard to conceptualize with just words. In, on, under, next to, in front of and behind can be confusing. Using props and demonstrating location through gestures and manipulatives can help young learners understand this concept. But kids really grasp the idea when they are looking for something…or someone…. Read more »
My English Passport
As teachers, we are always looking for ways to engage with our students. When teaching children in groups, it’s often difficult to find ways to interact with students individually using natural dialog. One tool that we’ve found particularly helpful is a student “passport”. Students of all ages, from the very young to our older kids,… Read more »
Everybody Up!
This past year, Troy and Devon from Super Simple Learning had the pleasure of creating 40 original songs for the new Oxford University Press primary series, Everybody Up. It was a great opportunity to work with some amazing people. Patrick Jackson, author of one of our favorite series for young learners, Potato Pals, is one… Read more »
Five Little Pumpkins – Classroom Tips
“Five Little Pumpkins” is fun little song. While it’s a nice fit for the Halloween season, it can be sung any time of the year and is one of our autumn favorites. Five Little Pumpkins Lesson Plan Need a quick and easy autumn lesson plan? Use the “Five Little Pumpkins” song to teach about counting,… Read more »
Row Row Row Your Boat
“Row, Row, Row Your Boat” is a much loved nursery rhyme and kids song. We wanted to make a video that would introduce the song at an appropriate pace for young learners, feature very clear singing, foster deeper thinking/discussion, and be compelling to all ages. It’s a lot of fun to sing in a round…. Read more »
