Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the large impact that Black leaders, thinkers, artists, and scholars have had on every facet of society. While many names are widely known and celebrated, countless others have transformed entire fields without receiving deserved recognition. In language, education, and sociolinguistics, Black scholars have challenged harmful narratives, affirmed the legitimacy of African American Speech, and reshaped how we understand language and identity....

Minimal pairs are two words that differ by only one sound, such as ship/sheep , fan/van , or cut/gut . Practicing them helps learners hear distinctions that may not exist in their first language and improves both listening comprehension and pronunciation. A key reminder: students will struggle with different sounds depending on their language background. This isn’t about labeling learners or making assumptions about individuals, but about ensuring we rotate practice so everyone  gets targeted...

Engaging students in speaking and writing activities can be challenging. Visual aids offer a practical solution to this problem. A single image can spark creativity, encourage discussion, and deepen understanding. Using visuals in the classroom transforms lessons from passive listening into active learning experiences. How Visuals Stimulate Student Production Visuals provide a concrete starting point for students to build ideas. When students see an image, their brains connect it to memories,...