Summer 2019

Introduction
This is just a sample of the inspiring articles in this issue. Professor James Shapiro talks to ETAS stalwart Eva Göksel about bringing Shakespeare into the classroom. Shapiro's current book project is an examination of Shakespeare in an America divided by Trump. A fabulous read, and very useful for those who do sometimes wonder how to achieve that involvement that eventually leads to appreciation and understanding of great words (regardless of who wrote them).
The interview leads into the Focus of this issue, which looks at Special Education Needs and Disabilities produced and edited by Rachel harris, and a section on drama and literature produced and edited by Eva Göksel. Naomi Epstein’s brief essay on teaching literature to deaf students: moving and illuminating.
The contents of this issue are interesting and motivating. They illustrate how rewarding English language teaching can be, but they also provide insight into some of the challenges that teachers face on a daily basis.
2 E TAS Professional Development Day
6 President’s Page
6 From the Editor’s desk
8 2020 Winter call for Submissions
9 ETAS Journal Outreach Programme 2019
10 Dear Alex
11 TEACHERS STORIES
Acting on the future with a cup of coffee • By Heather Murray
12 AT THE CHALK FACE
Journey to the West: reflections of a mid-career TEFL Instructor • by Jason Chan
14 VOICES OF EXPERIENCE
Field notes from the jungle • by Amy Jost
19 THE INTERVIEW
The Interview: James Shapiro
Eva Göksel
FOCUS
24 Introduction to Focus
25 Interview with Phil Dexter
Rachael Harris
30 Thinking outside of the boxes
Maria Byrne
33 The All Inclusive Classroom
Natalie Gonzalez
35 Creative writing in mixed ability classes
Veronique Buffat
38 Dyslexia and learning English
Jon Hird
41 When teaching literature highlights students who are deaf
Naomi Epstein
42 Introduction to drama and literature section
Eva Göksel
43 English through drama focus on language and literacy skills
Eva Göksel and Sylvia Nadig
45 Oscar Night: Exploring radio drama with upper-secondary learners
Lynn Williams
RESOURCES
49 Introduction to Focus
Hannah McCulloch
50 Resources Summer 2019
54 AFTER CLASS
Geoff Tranter