How Can Drawing and Sketchnoting Improve English Lessons? With Emily Bryson – S04E25

How can teachers use drawing to make English lessons clearer, more memorable and more engaging?Gav and Em explore the fascinating world of classroom visuals with special guest Emily Bryson from EmilyBrysonELT. They discuss how simple drawings, sketchnotes and visual templates can help learners understand new language, organise their ideas and communicate more confidently.Emily explains that teachers do not need to be talented artists to use drawing effectively. A basic visual vocabulary made from lines, shapes, arrows, containers and simple figures can support explanations, instructions and classroom activities. Even imperfect drawings can generate conversation and encourage learners to contribute.The discussion explores sketchnoting as an alternative to traditional written notes. Instead of trying to record every word, learners can combine keywords, symbols, pictures and layouts to identify important information and make meaningful connections.Gav, Em and Emily also consider how visuals can support neurodivergent learners, reduce cognitive demands and make lessons more inclusive. Emily shares practical activities involving visual templates, learner-generated drawings, vocabulary containers and collaborative storytelling.The conversation covers:• creating a simple visual vocabulary• using drawings to explain meaning• introducing sketchnoting to English learners• combining words, symbols and images in notes• using containers to organise vocabulary• encouraging learners who lack artistic confidence• creating visual templates for discussions• supporting memory, creativity and communication• using learner-generated drawings as speaking prompts• making classroom materials more accessibleEmily’s website:https://www.emilybrysonelt.com/Visual templates for environmental discussions:https://www.emilybrysonelt.com/visual-templates-for-engaging-environmental-discussions/Vocabulary containers:https://www.emilybrysonelt.com/?s=containersDraw phrasal verbs:https://www.learn-english-today.com/phrasal-verbs/phrasal-verbs-DRAW.htmlExample of sketchnoting:https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/645703665296605628/Support Gav and Em:https://ko-fi.com/howtoenglishpodMore practical ideas for teaching and learning English:https://www.howtoenglishpod.com/