I'm sorry to inform you all I won't be able to keep updating my blog for now as I'll be involved in other projects with and without my students. You can still watch and read the old posts. Remember all the links on the right of the blog are still useful and will remain there for your use and enjoyment.
Thank you all for visiting my blog and offering suggestions and posts to update it and make it more interesting. I think it'll still be useful as a learning tool.
Take care!
Elena.
Friday, October 7, 2016
Monday, July 11, 2016
Saturday, June 4, 2016
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Friday, May 20, 2016
Article-student's sample
“GRAPHIC ADVENTURES: LEARNING CAN BE FUN” For the teachers’ learning magazine
When debating about education, it’s often claimed that ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) should be used to make lessons more attractive and, therefore, raise students’ motivation. However, when, as a teacher, I tried to put this into practice I found two different kinds of programs: the ones that are too based on academic aspects and forget the playful elements (which lead to students’ lack of interest) and the ones that don’t seem educational at all.
Luckily I discovered “graphic adventures”. They may be defined as computer games in which students control a character who has to accomplish a mission by talking to people, collecting objects and solving puzzles or, in this case, maths and Spanish tasks.
The first and most obvious advantage of graphic adventures is that children are consolidating what they have previously learnt in an enjoyable and unconscious way, since they have to answer the exercises correctly in order to advance through the different game levels.
A further advantage is that pupils get used to predicting what is going to happen in the different game situations, especially when talking to the different characters. Although it may seem trivial, this feature can make the difference when dealing with students with Asperger syndrome or a similar disorder.
As a conclusion, I strongly recommend the use of graphic adventures for educational purposes as well as encourage the different publishers to continue developing this kind of programs. (D.T)
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Thursday, May 5, 2016
Review of a play C1 - review samples
I have recently had the opportunity to attend a new edition of the Youth Classical Theatre Festival, hosted by the Spanish town of Mérida every year on April. On stage, among others, a new version of Aulularia, one of the most famous comedies by Plautus, performed by “El Aedo”, a university theatre company.
Aulularia tells the story of Euclion, the main character who has become the worldwide prototype of meanness for he struggles relentlessly to hide his gold-filled pot in order for him not to be discovered to be richer than he seems. Of course, all his efforts are doomed to failure and by the end of the play everybody will have been aware of his wealthy status, especially his daughter, who aims to get married and, consequently, is in need of a large dowry.
It is well known that, due to textual transmission circumstances, this comedy lacks the end, which makes it a challenge to any company to perform it. “El Aedo” solves ingeniously this problem by offering two different endings and asking the audience for their preference afterwards, in a sort of exhilarating polling parody. However, a weak point can be mentioned: being acted by a non-professional troupe, not all the actors were equally skilled (in fact, minor characters were poorly performed).
It was a laughable and appalling production, highlighted by the best set ever dreamed of: the Roman theatre of Mérida. If you have the chance, make sure you attend next year’s edition of this Youth Festival.
A.F.
REVIEWS-C1: SAMPLES FROM STUDENTS
BREITNER AT THE RIJKSMUSEUM
The exhibition Breitner: Girl in kimono is open now until April the 24th at the Rijksmuseum as a part of the catalogue of temporary expositions this Dutch museum offers. Opening hours are from 9:30am to 7pm, Wednesdays to Sundays. Admission is 7.75€, groups are offered special prices depending on the number of visitors, and it is free for the Friends of the Rikjsmuseum and children under 12.
What makes this exhibition so important is the fact that, for the first time ever, this museum is bringing together all the versions of Girl in a Kimono by this impressionist painter born in Rotterdam and mainly influenced by Mondrian and Van Gogh. One of the things I liked best was being able to appreciate the real kimonos Breitner based his work on so close. I went with some friends who knew a lot about him, his style and techniques, so I personally think I really managed to understand his artwork.
There only being twelve paintings on display, with their preparatory sketches and drawings, in a rather big and airy showroom, it was quite easy to admire the complete exhibition even if there were a lot of people. In fact, if you are a conscientious observer you will also be able to notice how fascinated the artist was about his model and neighbour Geesje Kwak, fascination he always shows in his paintings, which is no doubt moving.
In a city as busy as Amsterdam, it is essential for the museums to offer attractive activities and new options not only for tourists, but also for its inhabitants, and so it does the Rikjsmuseum with Breitner’s exhibition. I strongly recommend it both for its price and its artistic interest. It is a must, and certainly worth seeing.
C.M.DFriday, April 22, 2016
Saturday, April 2, 2016
Friday, April 1, 2016
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Saturday, March 12, 2016
Monday, February 29, 2016
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Letters to the editor-students' samples
Dear Editor,
I am writing regarding the sale of wild animals as pets. Although I am aware that nowadays wild animals are allowed to be sold as pets I would like to express the reasons for my disagreement.
The fact that wild animals are sold in pet shops implies that these animals must have been taken away from their own habitat. Does this action mean that we are forcing them to adapt to our life-style? Will not the food chain be broken?
One of the biggest shows on Earth is the one that wildlife offers in its own habitat. At the same time, taking them away from their natural places can make wild areas underpopulated. For these reasons well-developed societies should focus their efforts on the protection of wildlife.
If my fellow human beings took action, an end could be put to this kind of trade once and for all.
S&R
Dear Editor
The Stirling Observer
Wednesday 3rd February
Dear Sir,
I am writing in the hope that I can persuade people not to keep wild animals in captivity as pets. Although acquiring this kind of animals is getting more and more popular, it does not seem to be the best option.
Those animals are living away from their natural habitat so the owner is supposed to provide them with all they need to survive. Living in this way implies they are not allowed to breed naturally or socialize with members of their species.
As they are wild, the owner is exposed to safety risks that he should need to attend to but not only for his own safety, also for the people who live nearby.
All in all, having wild pets involves a great responsibility and being aware of having a living being in your hands implies to think twice about it.
Alistair Munro, Bridge of Allan
E. and E.
The Editor Wednesday 3rd February
Norte de Castilla
Dear Editor,
Last week I read in your newspaper a piece of news about a crocodile cub being hunted by a policeman in the riverside. In recent years wild animal sales have rocketed at an incredibly high rate.
Although some laws banning this activity have recently been issued by the council, they are not as highly effective as they should be. Furthermore, wild animals are easily smuggled by well-organised groups into our country without any border control but the most important issue at stake is the demand of wild animals as pets. People are unaware of the fact that having an exotic animal in captivity is not the best option for them; so educations plays an important role at this point, especially for kids.
To sum up, effective laws against smugglers and environmental education are the main measures to stop this catastrophe.
J. and R.
The Editor
El Norte de Castilla
Wednesday 3rd February
Dear Sir,
We are writing to complain about the new Zoo which is going to be open in Matapozuelos. We have learned that some wild animals will be kept in small cages where they will feel cooped up and will not have enough space to move about. Furthermore, these poor conditions might result in huge pressure and stress on these animals.
Although some people think that this type of animal exhibitions may be an acceptable way to teach children about wildlife, we completely disagree, because the best way to watch them is in their own natural habitats.
Finally, we would like to remark the idea that this place should be a centre to breed some specific animals in order to take care of endangered species instead of being places of leisure.
J., A. and G.
Dear Editor,
Zoos are a part of our cultural traditions and almost every town has its own zoo, but now people are getting more aware of animal rights; nowadays there is concern against zoos because the benefits they might provide could be replaced with media resources or trips to natural habitats.
Having animals in cages is a cause of harm and trauma because there is no facility as big enough as the wild. After a month living in captivity, animals usually change their natural behaviour. This is not good for their health and some of them even stop eating, suffer from stress and some might end up dying altogether.
In spite of the fact that there are people in favor of zoos because they think it is positive for the education of children, there are many resources to get the same knowledge about wildlife, such as videos or virtual reality; so there are not enough reasons to keep wild animals in captivity.
H & J
Dear editor,
We are writing regarding the sale of wild animals as pets. There has recently been an increase in the number of people having a wild animal as a pet at home. It is a fact that nowadays many celebrities have a wild animal as a pet and these people have influence on others who might imitate them as role models.
We think this is a problem because a lot of people abandon these animals when they grow up. As a result, some of them die, others can adapt themselves overpopulating the area and changing the balance of the local ecosystem; and some could even pose a danger to people’s safety.
Another reason why we are against wild animals being sold as pets is that they belong to nature. These animals aren’t able to live together with humans. They need to live in their natural habitats in order to develop themselves and reproduce; otherwise more species can become endangered.
To sum up, we believe that people should be aware of what kind of animals can be held as a pet at home in order to avoid problems both in natural habitats and at home.
CC, SG, HP, SF
The Editor
The New Observer February 4th
Dear Editor,
I am writing with regard to the latest news in your newspaper about the increasing sale of wild animals in pet shops. We support the idea of leaving wild animals in their natural habitat. We are aware of the economic benefits of this sale. Nevertheless, people should be informed about the downsides of those activities.
Firstly, the illegal capture and trade must be stopped or, at least, reduced due to the damage and suffering caused. Secondly, people should be informed about the fact that although wild animals are sold as pets, when they grow they can show dangerous behaviour and what is more, transmit several diseases, like Ebola or ZiKa. A fact that should be taken into account by the owners and it requires some knowledge about how to face that problem.
To sum up, in order to preserve the natural environment and avoid the suffering of wild animals and humans, they should not be kept in captivity at all.
B,C, & O
The Editor Tuesday, 2nd February
El Norte de Castilla
Dear Editor,
We are writing to you regarding the uncontrolled sale of wild animals as pets in local shops, as you might be aware of the environmental problem that it entails, which has been underestimated.
Although it would be the easiest way to crack down on illegal hunting and smuggling, we firmly believe that this kind of highly-organised sale has more drawbacks than advantages.
The reason why we call them wild animals is because they breed in the wild; that is, if they grow in controlled environments, they will not be no longer wild, and they will not be able to survive in the wilderness again.
People also tend to forget that this kind of animals have by nature some violent behaviours, such as biting or scratching, and once they are adults, people do not know what to do with them.
We would be thankful if you took these well thought-out facts into account in order to be published, and if you realised the enormous impact the trade with wild animals has for endangered species.
Yours faithfully,
N & C
The Editor
The Stirling Observer
Friday 5th February
Dear Editor,
We are writing in the hope we can develop the sensitivity of our community regarding the trade of wild animals as pets.
Although it is known that many endangered wild species are being rescued by looking after them in captivity, there is an increasing highly-organised network that only pursues economic profits by unfair trading; what is more, the increasing demand on exotic wild species implies the exertion of an uncontrolled hunting that threatens the existence of their populations. Thus, as an important part of our habitats, wild species should be protected in order to preserve the natural balance of ecosystems.
We strongly believe that the problem has been awfully underestimated and the efforts to solve it poorly organised.
Our future is bound to our commitment with mother nature, our huge debt to her should be enough as not to keep failing in her preservation.
J. M. and A. A
The Editor
US Today
Wednesday 3rd February
Dear Editor,
I am a regular reader of your newspaper and I am writing regarding the current issue of the lack of control of suburban wildlife in our area, more exactly the recent attacks of wolves against the cattle on our farms. As a result, farmers are losing their resource of income; so immediate measures must be taken by the local council in order to stop the worrying present situation. In my view, I believe taller fences should be built to keep wild animals out of our private lands. Furthermore, a local campaign should be started to raise awareness of the serious problem which some farmers are facing nowadays. I feel that it is vital for everybody to respect the animal natural habitats and not to invade them. Otherwise, wild animals will keep trespassing farmers’ lands so as to feed themselves. It is important to point out that we all are responsible for the current situation. Therefore, we must all cooperate to put an end to the matter at stake.
A & L, Valladolid.
The Editor
The Animal Lover Tuesday, 2nd February
Dear Editor,
We are writing in the hope that we can let you know our opinion referring to ‘Animals in captivity in zoos.’
Recently it has been reported that keeping animals in captivity is not the most appropriate decision either for animals or for humans.
In spite of those opinions, we feel strongly zoos are a highly-successful way to preserve endangered species by helping them to breed free of any threats they would otherwise have in the wild. In addition, people who are afraid of animals but like them, can enjoy spending time seeing animals instead of feeling the anxiety they usually suffer from their phobia. Furthermore, zoos are sometimes underestimated by some groups of people forgetting that it is not possible to enjoy the view of animals from different habitats and continents, unless it happens in such a well-organised small spaces. We would like to focus not only on people but also on animals; by paying an entrance fee, everyone who gets into the zoo contributes to its maintenance as well as increasing the quality of life of the animals living inside.
To sum up, keeping animals in captivity in zoos might be a great choice as long as animals live in good conditions and it could be even better if people can have a good time admiring them.
M.A & C.G
The Editor
The Stirling Observer
Wednesday 3rd February
Dear Editor,
We are writing to call on your readers to be concerned about the risks of allowing the sale of wild animals as pets. We are a group of volunteers from an animal shelter who are used to managing with abandoned wild animals.
Keeping wild animals in small spaces should be taken into account as it is really harmful for them. In addition, when these pets grow up, the owners do not know how to take care of them properly. For this reason, many of them are abandoned. Moreover, there is a lack of specialized vets in order to offer effective treatments.
Another consequence is the environmental damage in wild populations as well as in the chain food, which is highly dangerous for our planet. We can see an example of this when foreign species are brought to a different country or habitat turning into an over-populated specie unbalancing the ecosystem as they thrive.
In conclusion, we encourage your readers to be concerned about this problem and to help us find highly effective measures to put a stop to this vicious trade.
Yours faithfully,
- & P.
The editor
Norte de Castilla
Dear Editor, February 2016
I am writing with regard to the conditions in which wild animals are being sold as pets. I am strongly against that idea and I would also like newspapers and society to put pressure on our local Town Hall so that they take some kind of measures.
Although wild animal trade is increasing nowadays and pet shops might have even been issued permits to do so, this activity should not be allowed because of the damage caused to wild natural habitats. Moreover, some thought should be given to the suffering and ill-treatment that this situation is causing.
Furthermore, wild animal are frequently been taken away from their natural environment. A well thought-out plan is needed to protect and control speculation. Due to that, most of these species become first under populated, then endangered and finally extinct. In addition to this, it is well known that most of these pets end up being released into our environment, which causes great damage into our urban ecosystem. Our local species might be exposed to the risk of being attacked.
On the other hand, some kind of law should be required in order to avoid owners to release their so called pets into nature again exposing to the risk of a certain death.
It is quite understandable that local authorities have many affairs to short out, but I very much hope you will consider this matter as a priority to be brought up during the nest Town Hall Council meeting.
Yours faithfully,
MJ.V & N.
The Editor
The Stirling Observer
Tuesday 2nd February 2016
Dear editor,
We are writing in the hope that we can make other readers aware of the serious consequences that the overpopulation of wolves are causing to our community.
As rural inhabitants, we are great defenders of biodiversity, of natural habitat and all kinds of animals’ preservation. However, our cattle are suffering increasing wolves’ attacks and this problem is gradually spreading to new areas.
Farmers have been informing of this fact for a long time, but recently the situation has become completely unsustainable, to the point that some farmers have had big losses only assumed by them.
We firmly believe that it is essential to find a balance in order to preserve all kinds of interests. With this aim, we are convinced that the only solution would be an organized and controlled hunt of the extra number of wolves in our area and we urge our authorities to take action immediately.
Yours faithfully,
M. P. and D. T.
The Editor Wednesday 3rd February
Animals in captivity in zoos
Dear Sir,
I am writing to awaken awareness about the fact that zoos are not as bad as they are thought to be.
Nowadays we live in a society in which animals are at the same level as humans beings. It is necessary to protect animals rights and I consider that zoos have an important role to play in this matter.
Zoos are the perfect solution for endangered species in order to prevent their extinction and their being smuggled.
At the same time we should bear in mind the educational aims of zoos.
Visiting zoos is a way to know how animals life in the wild is and it is an option for families to have a nice day all together as well.
Besides, urban citizens who live and stressful life could find a good way to be in touch with nature and relax in zoos.
It is well-known that modern zoos are trying to mirror natural habitats, that is the reason why animals are not kept in cages and they are looked after by experts.
Animal mistreat does not exist right now, as far as I know,and if it existed we would have enough laws to punish that conduct.
It will take a long time to people realise the positive side of zoos, but never is late to start.
C.G & M.G
Dear editor,
We are writing in the hope this letter could make people aware of the fact that keeping wild animals in zoos is not the best way for them to be raised.
Zoos are not well adapted to the habitats that different animals need; so animals are suffering from lack of space in many cases, and as they are fed by humans, they do not develop their own skills in order to get their own food, that means they would not be able to survive in the wild on their own if, by any chance, they were released.
There are better places, like natural parks, for instance, with better conditions, for animal to live in and thrive.
In order to put an end to this situation, governments must take actions to solve this problem and adopt measures to sort it out once and for all.
S.M.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
