The Mixxer

Another great tool found on Web! Joe Dale published the link to a free learning platform for language students, called The Mixxer (designed by Todd Bryant). With the help of their database anybody can find a language partner for a language exchange. If you're a native speaker of English, for example, and you want to learn Slovenian :), you can find a Slovenian learner of English and than the two of you can have (Skype) conversations and improve your language in cosy, informal environment. Teachers can also find other classes interested in doing language exchanges with their students.
This really seems to be a very simple but highly rewarding on-line experience. Has anyone tried it?

meditations

It is not enough to be busy; so are the ants.
The question is: What are we busy about?

Henry David Thoreau

teachers' tv

Via Education Guardian I came across this video podcast from teachers' tv. It is about newly qualified primary school teachers Tara and Rosie as they embark on the first week of their induction year. Video does take some time to download but it is well-worth watching.
Being a NQT myself I remember very well my first days of the previous school year. Ouch! It's too bad that I don't have the chance for improvements this year... not teaching at all :( Yet :)

Animal House

I've just come across a nice song again (by Dave Holmes). I used it last year with my young learners when practising names of animals and names of rooms in a house. It can be found on one of the British Council pages, together with words, a game and a short, simple video. My pupils loved it.

There's a kangaroo in my kitchen
There's a hippo in my hall
There's a dinosaur in my dining room
A hundred metres tall!
My house is full of animals
I don't know what to do
I think I'm going crazy -
I'm living in a zoo!
...