SESSION 3B

Giselle Carnemolla, UTS: Insearch
Scaffolding thinking skills to encourage student autonomy and original writing responses

Abstract
In the workshop, we will explore the complexity of academic English by exploring concepts of the culture of critical thinking, and the relationship between language and cognition. We will look at the practical implementation of scaffolding thinking skills through the use of cognitive graphic organizers as a means to encourage student autonomy and discourage formulaic responses. We will consider the relevance of cognitive load concerns when teaching thinking skills in order to make more effective the delivery of academic English courses.

Bio
Giselle Carnemolla has been an ESL practitioner and trainer, both domestically and abroad, for 20 years. She joined UTS: Insearch in 2008 teaching EAP across all levels (Beginner to Upper-Intermediate) and in 2011 began work on the curriculum review project, developing the independent learning stream and content materials and activities. Previously Giselle worked as part of a curriculum review team in the Language Teacher Education Department at UNSWIL where she reviewed and re-wrote part of their Certificate of TESOL. For International House in Milan she established the framework for Business English courses. Her interests in learner autonomy, critical thinking and Academic English were founded in her Master's studies at UTS and has led her to continue her studies in 2017 in the field of Educational Psychology at the University of Sydney.