Here is one more chance to explain graphs.  Remember to take your time and point out any relevant details.  You can post your explanations in comment box below.

As you can see, there are a few charts and graphs here that need to be explained.  How should you start?  If you remember from the previous blog post, you should going  through the following steps will help you come up with a clear and precise explanation.

     1.  Introduce the topic and name of the chart or graph.

     2.  Point out the significance of each axis and any markers inside the chart.  In
          other words, explain the symbols on the page.

    3.  Mention trends and draw conclusions.

    4.  Restate the main information provided by the graph or chart.


That’s all there is to it!  Why don’t you try it with the graphs above?

Listen to this week’s video and you will learn a few tricks to help you explain a chart or graph in a presentation.

How has learning English influenced your life?

Are there opportunities you have now that you did not have before you could understand the language?

Immigrants in Oakland are facing a major problem.  Budget cuts have eliminated almost all free Adult ESL classes in the city.  The six remaining classes are only available to parents of Oakland School District students.  

While there are still some options for people who can drive to another city for class, there are also many people who are being left behind, without access to English classes they can afford.  The people most impacted are already in a fragile position.  They are women with young children who need child care to attend class.  They are the elderly who don’t drive.  They are women and men with limited or non-existent reading skills.

As an answer to this issue, in September 2013, East Bay ESL opened two free community classes with free child care in West Oakland.  One serves adults who want to prepare for the US citizenship exam.  The other class teaches basic English to women with limited literacy skills.

These classes have been popular and influential.  They reach immigrants who would not have access to school without them.  

Of course, East Bay ESL needs to hire qualified staff and provide supplies, so I’m asking for your help.  If English has been important to your success, would you lend a hand to low-income immigrant women who need your help learning the language?  

By donating to the community classes, you guarantee the program will continue through May 2014.

Every donation, big or small helps.  Donate here now.