Latest
Why kids need freewriting
Freewriting is simple. It’s just writing with no rules, no expectations, and—most importantly—no grades. In a world where kids are often ranked, tested, and pushed to perform, students also need space to explore and to just write.
5 book series Englist elementary students love to read
Finding stories that engage students, especially in their second language, can be a challenge. That’s why Englist teachers carefully select books …
Living, teaching, and thriving with ADHD
ADHD is not a character flaw. It’s not laziness. It’s not a failure in parenting. It’s a neurological difference that requires understanding, compassion, and support.
Academic Writing
5 reasons to take Englist’s “Critical Thinking and Citizenship” class
Addressing injustice and encouraging positive citizenship are major goals of education. Therefore, students should learn how to critically examine instances of injustice in their world and lives, develop the skills to address these issues, and develop confidence to engage in democratic and political processes as adults.
What is writing? And why do we write?
Writing is important, and once you realize what it is for, it is fun. But more than just fun, writing is a powerful tool and it will train you to do the most fundamental thing human beings do. That is because: …
To Kill a Mockingbird and Lit Class in Taiwan
How Taiwanese kids learn about this book, and so many others, could be done so much better if we would move past the idea that for a curriculum to be “American” it needs to be copied and pasted wholesale from American high school lit classes. More specifically, students at Englist enjoy and understand advanced books like TKAM because we approach them differently than anyone else in Taiwan does.
Elementary Fundamentals
5 book series Englist elementary students love to read
Finding stories that engage students, especially in their second language, can be a challenge. That’s why Englist teachers carefully select books …
Are you overscheduling your kids?
Parents overscheduling their kids to the point where it may be doing harm, including causing depression and anxiety. Research shows that scheduling activities for every moment of every day doesn’t help much with cognitive development. It also …
The problem with an American-centric curriculum and how Englist does it better
Every day across Taiwan, students at buxibans, bilingual programs, and “international” schools open American textbooks filled with stories about the 4th of July, historical figures like George Washington, and jokes that don’t quite land. Taiwanese parents and administrators assume these are the best path to fluency for Taiwanese students—but are they?
College Applications
How to prepare for the TOEFL
A good TOEFL study plan can do a lot to prepare you for the test. These steps will help you organize an ideal study plan. TOEFL format and scores Useful resources Practice strategies Tutoring Conclusion TOEFL format and scores Overall, TOEFL scores you on a...
What is academic writing and why is it important?
Academic writing has become an increasingly important part of education as parents and educators realize the value of critical thinking skills and preparing students for college. Still, many students, parents, and even other teachers don’t have a great grasp on this area of learning and why it is so critical. As such, at Englist we find it is important to not only teach academic writing, but also help everyone understand why it is imperative to the development of thoughtful and capable students.
How to prepare for the IELTS exam
By Teacher Jon A good IELTS study plan can do a lot to prepare you for the test. These steps will help you organize an ideal study plan. Useful resources Ideal study space Understanding the test format Immersion - not over-study Taking mock tests Practicing...