Naomi Takagi (Using brainstorming strategies for teaching argumentative writing to college students in Japan), Joyce Cunningham (Using TV commercials in Englis class)

Presentations:
1. Using brainstroming strategies for teaching argumentative writing to college students in Japan (13:00-14:00)
by Naomi Takagi (Ibaraki University) Chapter sponsored presenter for JALT2012
Presentation summary:
Argumentative writing is an important mode of communication in academia and the workplace, and it is often assigned in the college classroom as well. This mode of writing, however, can be challenging for college students in Japan because many of them lack prior experience with it. The presenter will discuss the use of brainstorming strategies to reduce students’ cognitive strains and enhance their productivity and enjoyment in argumentative writing.
2. Using T.V. commercials in English class (14:15-15:15)
by Joyce Cunningham (Ibaraki University)
Presentation summary:
After the advent of Youtube, commercials have never been easier to unearth and download but their very abundance can make the task somewhat daunting initially. In this workshop, tips on useful sites for locating commercials as well as educational sites containing advertising information and worksheets will be mentioned, and a variety of commercials viewed. The presenter will suggest different ways to exploit the latter in order to
stimulate learners and engage them more fully in target activities.
Brief, entertaining and authentic, appropriately selected commercials can focus on linguistic and cultural content and, at the same time, recycle vocabulary and introduce or reinforce pronunciation. Since the scripts are
so short, they can be used for listening retells, role plays, and critical thinking when deconstructing the commercial to analyze the message, pinpoint the intended audience, and become familiar with persuasive
techniques and claims, etc. Lower level or weaker listeners can be encouraged to access an online commercial later, for further practice. In addition, commercials provide excellent opportunities for discussion among
second and foreign language learners when observing English speaking cultures, and reflecting on their values, behavioural patterns, and so on. Participants will be asked to brainstorm in small groups and share ideas for exploiting commercials viewed. Handouts of the presentation will be distributed.
3. Business Meeting & Election (15:20-16:30)