I am getting ready to begin using the WBT strategies with my ESL students and am excited about getting started. Like others, I can see how WBT can have a positive impact on student behavior and learning. I love how students become engaged through Teach Okay. The reading and math games provide a routine of repetition. As a middle school teacher I believe that WBT will be great for both my students and me! I am going to start a blog to document my journey with my studnets this year.

I think WBT will be extremely beneficial to your ESL students. The visual aids are so great at helping the students build on their vocabulary. Whenever I teach students new vocabulary words, I always teach them a gesture to go with it. I had never done that before I learned about WBT, but it has made a BIG difference. Even my special ed students remember what the words mean. It is amazing!!!

Would you be able to share any of the signals/hand gestures you have created? I'm wanting to be ready with gestures for my 7th and 8th grade students in Language Arts which starts on Sept. 7th. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I think it is a good idea for you to blog your journey this year. Last year when I started some of the strategies I stopped when I got discouraged. I think I also will blog in some format so that when I do get discouraged I can get some help and support. I"m looking forward to this year. I teach sixth grade social studies. Good Luck this year. Maybe we can keep in touch.
Linda B.