21st Century Communication - Classroom Presentation Tool (MacOS version) +PDFs+ Test + Teacher resource

Description

“21st Century Communication” from National Geographic Learning is an innovative four-level educational series designed to enhance critical thinking and effective communication skills. This series uniquely integrates ideas from TED Talks, making it an engaging and contemporary tool for language learning and skill development. Here’s an overview of the series:

Levels and Authors:
• Level 1 (Low-intermediate, B1) – Authored by Lida Baker and Laurie Blass
• Level 2 (Low-intermediate to High-intermediate, B1 to B2) – Authored by Jessica Williams
• Level 3 (Intermediate to High-intermediate, B2) – Authored by Lynn Bonesteel
• Level 4 (Intermediate to Advanced, B2 to C1) – Authored by Christien Lee

Key Features:
• Integration of TED Talks: Utilizes TED Talks for developing skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and visual literacy.
• Focus on Speaking and Pronunciation: Inspired by TED speakers, it aims to prepare learners to speak confidently in diverse scenarios.
• Extended Listening Practice: Involves real-world contexts and TED Talks for enhanced listening and note-taking skills.
• Online Workbooks: Comprises a comprehensive audio and video program with automatically graded language practice activities, suitable for hybrid and blended learning environments.
Authors’ Backgrounds:
• Lida Baker: An experienced author and editor, with a rich portfolio of print and digital books for ESL and EFL students and teachers.
• Laurie Blass: A writer and editor with an M.A. in Linguistics and a TESL certificate, specializing in English Language Teaching materials.
• Jessica Williams: A seasoned author, teacher, and teacher trainer with over 30 years of experience in Applied Linguistics.
• Lynn Bonesteel: Has over three decades of experience in international education and cross-cultural communication.
• Christien Lee: With dual Canadian and British citizenship, he has over 20 years of experience in English Language Teaching, including roles as a teacher, trainer, and curriculum developer.
Additional Tools:
• National Geographic Learning Online Placement: An adaptive online test for learners aged 15+, offering placement into one of 14 CEFR bands and featuring speaking prompts with National Geographic photos.
This series represents a modern approach to language learning, emphasizing real-world application, multimedia integration, and skills essential for the 21st century.

Who is suitable for ‘21st Century Communication’?
“21st Century Communication” from National Geographic Learning is suitable for a wide range of learners, particularly those who are:
English Language Learners: The series is designed for students learning English as a second or foreign language. It caters to learners at various proficiency levels, from low-intermediate to advanced (B1 to C1 in the CEFR framework).
Students Seeking to Develop Critical 21st Century Skills: The curriculum is ideal for those who wish to enhance skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and visual literacy, which are essential in today’s global and digital world.
Learners Interested in TED Talks and Real-world Contexts: Individuals who find motivation in contemporary, real-life content, such as TED Talks, will find this series engaging and relevant.
Academic Students and Professionals: The series is well-suited for learners in academic settings or professionals looking to improve their communication skills for academic or career advancement.
Hybrid and Blended Learning Environments: With its online workbooks and comprehensive digital resources, the series is perfect for learners in hybrid or blended learning environments.
Learners Aged 15 and Above: The National Geographic Learning Online Placement tool suggests that the series is suitable for learners aged 15 and older.
Individuals Preparing for Higher Education or Professional Settings: Those planning to study in English-speaking universities or work in environments where English communication is key will benefit from the series’ focus on listening, speaking, and critical thinking skills.
In summary, “21st Century Communication” is versatile and can cater to a wide array of learners, especially those keen on integrating language learning with real-world content and essential modern skills.

The benefits of ‘21st Century Communication’
The “21st Century Communication” series from National Geographic Learning offers several significant benefits, making it a valuable resource for English language learners and educators. These benefits include:
Integration of TED Talks: The use of TED Talks provides learners with engaging, thought-provoking content. This integration exposes students to a variety of accents, speaking styles, and real-world topics, enhancing their listening and comprehension skills.
Development of Critical Thinking Skills: The series emphasizes critical thinking, a crucial skill for academic success and effective decision-making in daily life. Learners are encouraged to analyze, evaluate, and form opinions on diverse subjects.
Improvement in Speaking and Presentation Skills: Inspired by TED speakers, the series focuses on enhancing speaking abilities. This includes pronunciation, fluency, and the confidence to speak in various situations, which is essential for academic presentations, professional environments, and everyday interactions.
Visual Literacy Enhancement: With content from National Geographic, learners develop visual literacy – the ability to interpret and make meaning from information presented in the form of an image. This is increasingly important in our visually-oriented world.
Real-world Context and Application: The curriculum’s use of real-world scenarios ensures that learning is relevant and applicable. This practical approach helps learners understand how language is used in everyday situations.
Comprehensive Listening Practice: Extended listening exercises based on TED Talks and real-world contexts improve learners’ listening skills. This includes understanding different dialects and accents, which is vital for effective communication in a global context.
Online and Blended Learning Support: The series includes online workbooks and digital resources, making it suitable for various learning environments, including traditional classrooms, online learning, and hybrid models.
Suitability for Diverse Learning Levels: With materials designed for different proficiency levels, the series caters to a broad range of learners, from low-intermediate to advanced, ensuring a gradual and effective learning curve.
Cultivation of Collaboration Skills: Group activities and discussions around TED Talk content encourage teamwork and collaboration, skills that are essential in both academic and professional settings.
Global Perspectives and Cultural Awareness: Through content from National Geographic and diverse TED Talks, learners gain insights into different cultures and global issues, fostering cultural sensitivity and a broader worldview.
In summary, “21st Century Communication” offers a comprehensive, engaging, and modern approach to English language learning that not only enhances linguistic skills but also develops critical 21st-century competencies like critical thinking, visual literacy, and effective communication in diverse contexts.

Effective teaching and learning strategies for ’21st Century Communication’
Effective teaching and learning strategies for “21st Century Communication” are crucial to maximize the benefits of this comprehensive English language learning series. Here are some strategies for both teachers and learners:

For Teachers:

Incorporate TED Talks Effectively: Use TED Talks as a springboard for discussions, critical thinking exercises, and debates. This can enhance listening skills and stimulate intellectual curiosity.
Promote Interactive Learning: Encourage students to engage in group discussions, presentations, and role-plays based on the content. This fosters communication skills and collaboration.
Utilize the Online Workbooks: Assign activities from the online workbooks for homework or in-class tasks. These resources can provide additional practice and reinforce learning.
Customize Lessons: Tailor your lessons to the needs and interests of your students. Use the diverse topics in TED Talks to connect with students’ experiences and backgrounds.
Focus on Visual Literacy: Use the National Geographic content to teach visual literacy. Discuss photographs and videos to enhance students’ abilities to interpret and analyze visual information.
Incorporate Technology: Utilize digital tools for interactive and engaging lessons. Online discussions, quizzes, and collaborative projects can be very effective.
Continuous Assessment and Feedback: Provide regular feedback on speaking and writing tasks. Use assessments not just to grade but to guide students on how to improve.
Encourage Note-Taking: Teach effective note-taking strategies during listening exercises. This skill is vital for understanding and retaining spoken information.

For Learners:
Active Engagement with TED Talks: Watch TED Talks beyond the classroom, focusing on various subjects and speakers to get accustomed to different accents and presentation styles.
Participate in Discussions: Actively participate in class discussions and group activities. Share your thoughts and listen to others’ perspectives.
Practice Critical Thinking: Reflect on the ideas presented in TED Talks and National Geographic content. Formulate your own opinions and learn to articulate them effectively.
Utilize Online Resources: Make full use of the online workbooks and other digital resources for self-study and practice.
Work on Pronunciation and Fluency: Practice speaking regularly, focusing on pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm.
Expand Vocabulary: Actively learn new vocabulary from the course material and use it in writing and speaking exercises.
Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from teachers and peers, and work on areas that need improvement.
Engage in Self-reflection: Regularly assess your own progress and identify areas where you need more practice.
By implementing these strategies, both teachers and learners can effectively navigate the “21st Century Communication” series, ensuring a rich and productive language learning experience that not only enhances English proficiency but also develops critical 21st-century skills.

Unlocking Modern Skills with 21st Century Communication
In an era where the rapid pace of technological advancements and globalization continuously reshape the way we communicate, the need for effective communication skills has never been more critical. “21st Century Communication,” a groundbreaking series from National Geographic Learning, stands at the forefront of addressing this need, providing learners with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern communication.
Embracing the Power of TED Talks
At the heart of this innovative series is the integration of TED Talks, a platform renowned for its inspiring, thought-provoking presentations on a myriad of topics. By weaving these talks into the fabric of the curriculum, “21st Century Communication” offers learners an opportunity to engage with ideas and perspectives that challenge the status quo. These talks serve as a catalyst for stimulating discussion, encouraging learners to think critically and express their ideas fluently and confidently in English.
Cultivating Critical Thinking and Collaboration
The modern workplace and academic environments demand more than just fluency in a language; they require the ability to think critically and collaborate effectively. “21st Century Communication” responds to this demand by developing these essential skills. Through discussions, debates, and group projects inspired by content from TED Talks and National Geographic, learners develop the ability to analyze information, work in diverse teams, and present their ideas cohesively.
Visual Literacy in a Digital World
Another facet of this series is its emphasis on visual literacy. In a world dominated by images and videos, the ability to interpret and make meaning from visual information is crucial. The series leverages National Geographic’s compelling visuals to enhance learners’ visual literacy, teaching them to not only understand but also to communicate effectively using visual elements.
Comprehensive Skill Development
“21st Century Communication” is designed for learners at various stages of language proficiency, from low-intermediate to advanced. This inclusive approach ensures that learners can build their language skills progressively. The series places equal emphasis on speaking, listening, reading, and writing, providing a balanced approach to language learning.
Online Resources for Hybrid Learning
Understanding the dynamics of modern education, the series offers extensive online resources, including digital workbooks and interactive activities. These resources are ideal for hybrid and blended learning environments, allowing learners to continue their language development outside the traditional classroom setting.
Preparing for a Globalized World
In our increasingly interconnected world, the ability to communicate across cultures is invaluable. “21st Century Communication” prepares learners for this globalized environment by exposing them to diverse cultures, ideas, and perspectives. It equips them with the language and communication skills needed to succeed in international settings, whether in academia, business, or social contexts.

Conclusion
“21st Century Communication” is more than just an English language course; it’s a gateway to the essential skills needed in the 21st century. By integrating TED Talks, focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, and visual literacy, and providing comprehensive skill development, the series offers a unique and effective approach to language learning. It’s an invaluable resource for learners aspiring to thrive in the modern world’s dynamic landscape.