Comments on: 5 news sites for authentic language-learning

By: Kenny

Kenny — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 07:55:06 +0000

I really like BBC Learning English and Breaking News English. Thanks for creating this list. I will look at the others posted here as well. I agree with Eric’s comment about “unreliable disinformation” when teaching kids but with adult learners it might be more entertaining to look at the unconventional news now and then.

By: Simon

Simon — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 11:44:28 +0000

I’ve used VOA too and found some good material there. My only beef with VOA is that some of the podcasts are too long, and the speech is unnaturally slow. This is OK for some activities, but I prefer using listening materials where people speak at a natural speed. Great subject matter and variety though.

By: TuSpanish

TuSpanish — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 11:09:32 +0000

Great list. I’d also add VOA News:

http://www.voanews.com/english/index.cfm

Good news in American English, the site also has a section for English learners with very interesting podcasts and videocasts.

Cheers.

By: Simon

Simon — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:20:49 +0000

I take your point Eric. A site like Disinformation should be used sparingly and with adult students, and I would personally choose the article. It brings up an interesting question: should we bring up controversial subjects in a language class? I think teachers need to come to a conclusion that they are comfortable with. I have seen very effective debate happen in advanced classes, and a language class can be a good “safe” place to practice debating skills. I also like the language practice that can come out of exercises which involve comparing different points of view – such as the activity I suggest.

No matter what written material we use, it will be written from a certain point of view, whether it be in a language textbook, or authentic articles we might source on the Internet. The line between “fact” and “opinion” is a fuzzy one even in such reputable organs as the New York Times. I think the key is variety, and not taking the material too seriously. The goal is, after all, language practice.

I would be interested to read any other thoughts readers might have on the subject.

By: Eric Roth

Eric Roth — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:21:26 +0000

A fascinating, eclectic selection of websites. Four seem excellent, but I have to dissent from the choice of disinformation. We need to focus on student needs, not promote obscure or conspiracy-filled stories in our classrooms.
Personally, I’d suggest visiting http://www.marketplace.org for excellent business features from the leading business public radio show in the United States. Likewise, I’d feel much more comfortable recommending either the New York Times or Voice of America than the slightly wacky, and often unreliable disinformation website.
Promoting critical thinking and scepticism doesn’t mean being so wide open that you believe any nonsense – or put into your classrooms. Let’s try to teach that vital distinction between facts and opinions while introducing the academic word list too.