Adults Learning English
Practice speaking English with others at Manchester Art Gallery
Our gallery and its collections are worth talking about - so what better resource for people learning to speak English?
We offer tailored sessions for ESOL groups, monthly English Corner sessions for individual learners and printable resources for ESOL tutors.
"I was very surprised because it was so good. I learned new things about the arts. I’ve met a few people with a different culture. It was interesting."
Individual learner on English Corner
"Very enjoyable session and very informative. Lots of opportunities for practising speaking English. The gallery's ESOL expert was friendly and made everyone feel welcome. I will definitely recommend this session to other tutors and to my learners."
ESOL tutor
For a full list of projects, see below. For more information please contact either leisa Gray or Ruth Edson:
Tel: 0161 235 8877 or 0161 235 8844
Email: l.gray@manchester.gov.uk, r.edson@manchester.gov.uk
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English Corner
English Corner at Manchester Art Gallery is for people who are learning English as a second language.
Where?
Manchester Art Gallery - meet at the information desk.
When?
The second Wednesday of every month (see the events calendar for the next English Corner)
What time?
1 - 2.30pm
How much?
Free!
Come along, enjoy artworks and meet other students.
You will look at artworks and talk about them together. Our English tutor will help you practise your speaking and listening skills. The sessions are friendly and our tutor will make sure you can join in even if you have only just started to learn English.
"English Corner is very good practice for me. I can learn English and know about art as well." Student
If you would like to join the English Corner mailing list for monthly email reminders, send your name and email address to:
magevents@manchester.gov.uk
English Corner booked sessions for ESOL tutors
Enjoy a break from the classroom. Bring your ESOL group to English Corner at Manchester Art Gallery.
English Corner at Manchester Art Gallery is for people who are learning English as a second language. It offers practical conversational exercises in a real life setting.
The sessions can be tailored for entry levels 1, 2, and 3 and level 1. They are led by our ESOL expert, so you get a chance to observe your students.
"As the group's tutor, I found this session very interesting because the students showed such confidence. I was surprised at how easily less able students participated."
"It has definitely helped me with my English. It was a very interesting and useful experience."
Student
Sessions last one and a half hours.
Cost: £65
Maximum group size: 15 students
For more information, contact Ruth Edson:
Tel: 0161 235 8877
Email: r.edson@manchester.gov.uk
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English Corner resources for ESOL tutors
Use the printable resources below to facilitate your ESOL group's visit to Manchester Art Gallery
Since we started English Corner, we've had lots of requests from tutors for resources to help them run their own ESOL sessions at the gallery. These printable worksheets will tell you everything you need to know, from the location of the toilets to how to use a specific artwork to inspire speaking and listening.
We love to know you've been with your group so don't forget to sign in at the info desk when you get here. It's also really helpful if you let us know you're coming so please contact us in advance if you can. Please contact Ruth Edson:
Tel: 0161 235 8877
Email: r.edson@manchester.gov.uk
Downloadable resources
General advice and ideas for ESOL tutors.
Answering the Emigrant’s Letter by James Collinson
Please note: until April 2012, you’ll find this painting in Gallery 6 on the first floor.
Answering the Emigrant’s Letter worksheet
Relationships
Answering the Emigrant’s Letter by James Collinson
The Hireling Shepherd by William Holman Hunt
These paintings are suitable for work with Entry 1 Learners and Beginners because they depict universal themes such as love and family.
Please note: until April 2012, you’ll find these paintings in Gallery 6 on the first floor.
Remembrance and war
Paintings and objects that will encourage discussion about remembrance and honouring bravery in different cultures.
Seasons
Paintings offering opportunities to discuss seasons, their colours, their smells and how we feel about them.
The Hireling Shepherd
The Hireling Shepherd by William Holman Hunt
Please note: until April 2012, you’ll find this painting in Gallery 6 on the first floor.
The Hireling Shepherd worksheet
Sport
Paintings depicting sporting events offer the opportunity to discuss sports in the past and now and to talk about being a sports fan.
The Unknown
Painting and sculpture that raise questions about what is being depicted and about human feelings.
Older people
