Green Eggs and Ham 2008

When I was as the TexTESOL state conference earlier this month, I saw a demonstration by John Schmidt (Texas Intensive English Program) that I knew I had to try with my class. He and a volunteer did an interpretive reading of "Green Eggs and Ham" by Dr. Seuss — good for practicing American English vowel sounds. It's a long poem, so I divided it into six parts and had a different pair of students read each part. Here's how it came out with my beginning ESL class...

Democracy: Yes we can!

The world stayed up late last night to watch the results of the U.S. presidential election and Barack Obama making his first speech as the president-elect of the United States. I have to say I am filled with feelings of optimism and hope today. To me, Obama's win is important because it shows that many people making small contributions can achieve the result they want. As Obama reminded us last night, change won't come by magic, but with the work and support of those who want it — just the way the election was won. Yes we can! See news reports, photos, and videos about the election at CNN.