Handout for the workshop at the 21st ELT conference. Cali, Colombia

1. The paradox of the inspiring classroom CCCA 21st Annual ELT – May 9-10, 2014
The paradox of the inspiring classroom
By adopting or adapting some of the following characteristics
in our classrooms we could help our students to be more
“inspired” and find ways of making the most of their learning
abilities.
In an inspiring classroom . . .
. . . students are involved in more than passive learning.
Make sure your students are given the chance to use their
English in class and explore the different things they can do
through language. Manage your teacher talk and plan activities
in which students get to use the language for communicative
purposes.
In an inspiring classroom . . .
. . . students are involved in higher order thinking
(analysis, synthesis, evaluation, etc).
Propose activities and goals which allow your students to use
their abilities and critical thinking skills so they understand
language as a means to an end.
In an inspiring classroom . . .
. . . there is no room for embarrassment.
If you want to inspire your students they must feel free to
make mistakes, ask for clarification and help. They have to

2. The paradox of the inspiring classroom CCCA 21st Annual ELT – May 9-10, 2014
understand the language classroom is a place to collaborate and
learn from each other.
In an inspiring classroom . . .
. . . students work in groups.
Try different group settings. Have your students work in pairs,
small groups and as a whole group too. Sharing ideas,
comparing, evaluating and concluding with the help of others
builds up a great sense of belonging and it is inspiring!
In an inspiring classroom . . .
. . . students are given choices as much as possible.
Don’t be afraid. It doesn’t mean you are going to do everything
your students want. While choosing a topic for a presentation,
doing a project, assigning homework, and more you can ask
your students to give ideas or select from a group of choices
what they like the most.
In an inspiring classroom . . .
. . . there is room for improvisation.
From time to time inspiration is something that comes to you
out of the blue. Be always attentive to those “magic moments”
and do not hesitate to change your plan and take advantage
one of these incredible opportunities with your students.

3. The paradox of the inspiring classroom CCCA 21st Annual ELT – May 9-10, 2014