MY HERO Webquest for English as a Second Language Learners
by Kristan Taylor, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de MexicoSubject ESL/EFL
Overview/Purpose:
Although most students are able to explore websites in their native language, it's a challenging task for English Language Learners. A Webquest is a common tool in many ESL classrooms. It is designed to walk students through the process of exploring a website in English with the purpose of preparing them for future Internet research projects.
Objectives:
The goal of this Webquest is to enable high beginning - intermediate ESL students to explore MY HERO while practicing English in a meaningful way. Students will practice reading comprehension, vocabulary, and summarizing.
In general, Webquests are independent projects. If this is your students' first experience with a Webquest, they may need more support. Prior to going to the computer lab, students should review the vocabulary word list.
Inform students that they will be going on a Webquest to explore the MY HERO site and use clues to solve the Webquest!
MY HERO Webquest
Vocabulary:
Hero
Not for profit / nonprofit
Home page
Summary
Accomplishments
Review the questions on the Webquest, highlighting the vocabulary, and instruct students to be on their way!
In order to assess the main objective of the Webquest, students work in groups to discuss the summaries of their three heroes. Teacher visits each group to monitor discussion.
1: Unsatisfactory: Students have not fully completed the Webquest Worksheet and are unable to summarize their work in English.
2. Satisfactory: Students have partially completed the Webquest Worksheet and can adequately summarize their work in English.
3. Exceptional: Students have thoughtfully and fully completed the Webquest Worksheet and can articulately summarize their work in English.