Using articles to integrate all your skills!

One great method I like to use in my classes is to have a student read an article aloud, and while they read, I write down any errors in pronunciation. We take breaks every 2 or 3 paragraphs, and I explain any unknown vocabulary and add them to our class flashcards. I also review the pronunciation errors and have the students repeat until they feel comfortable. You can find many articles that include a listening portion. I like to use the website: www.npr.org. (NPR = National Public Radio, a radio station broadcast-ed around the U.S. with news from all around the world and other fun radio shows!) Many articles on this website include an article and the broadcast of the story for you to listen to. 

Below is an example of what one of these articles look like on the website:

(SOURCE)
There is a large "play" button in the top-left corner. If you click there you will be able to hear the article and follow along with the reading. Even if you are not doing this with a teacher, you can read aloud, then listen to check your own pronunciation. This is a great tool for language learning as well as keeping up with current events. 

NOTE: NOT every article has a listening option, when you are looking on the homepage you must find one with a "Listen" button. As you can see below, the first article has the listening option and the second article does not (but still feel free to read!)

This is great test preparation as well! You can test your reading and listening comprehension. Happy reading and speaking!