Resources for Teachers and Volunteers

Raise Up! A Diverse and Inclusive View of English

Author: James M. Taylor & Ila Coimbra

This series challenges the norms of mainstream ELT materials by centering underrepresented voices and identities. It promotes inclusivity through real-world, socially relevant lessons that reflect the diversity of learners and the world they live in.

Best Features:

• Inclusive representation of LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, disabled, and working-class communities

• Critical pedagogy approach

• Real-life, contextualized lesson plans

• Encourages learner identity and belonging

Buy from:

Raise Up! Official Website: https://clok.uclan.ac.uk/40172/

A New Chapter Bookstore: https://www.anewchapterbooks.com/

Existence: Eight LGBTQIA+ Inclusive ELT Resources

Author: Peter J. Fullagar

A groundbreaking collection of eight ready-to-use lesson plans that integrate LGBTQIA+ themes into English language teaching. Designed to foster empathy, visibility, and inclusive language use.

Best Features:

• CEFR-aligned (A2–C1)

• Inclusive language and critical thinking focus

• Teacher notes and answer keys included

• Promotes safe, respectful classroom discussions

Buy from:

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Existence-Eight-LGBTQIA-inclusive-resources/dp/1738543102

BEBC: https://www.bebc.co.uk/existence-eight-lgbtqiaplus-inclusive-elt-resources

Peter Fullagar’s ELT Shop: https://peterjfullagar.co.uk/eltshop/existence-collection/

LGBTQIA+ Identities in English Language Teaching

Author: Peter J. Fullagar

This guide empowers teachers to integrate LGBTQIA+ representation into their classrooms through visibility, usualisation, and disruption. It offers practical strategies and real-life examples.

Best Features:

• Practical classroom tips

• Frameworks for inclusive lesson planning

• Emphasis on visibility and normalisation

• Supports teacher confidence in inclusive practices

Buy from:

Peter Fullagar’s ELT Shop: https://peterjfullagar.co.uk/eltshop/lgbtqia-identities-in-english-language-teaching-a-practical-guide/

Hands Up for Peace!

Author: Peter J. Fullagar, Anna Maria Pinter, Emily Bryson, Nick Bilbrough, and others

A peace-themed resource book using the concept of “hands” to explore themes of conflict, displacement, and solidarity. Designed for learners affected by war or migration.

Best Features:

• Trauma-informed and peace-focused

• Collaborative, multi-author project

• Creative, hands-on activities

• Suitable for refugee and migrant learners

Buy from:

Hands Up Project Shop: https://www.handsupproject.org/shop

English for Everyone: Teacher’s Guide

Author: DK

A comprehensive teaching companion to the English for Everyone series. It offers structured lesson plans, visual aids, and practical tips for teaching English at all levels.

Best Features:

• Visual grammar and vocabulary explanations

• CEFR-aligned (A1–C1)

• Audio and digital resources included

• Ideal for classroom and one-to-one teaching

Buy from:

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/English-Everyone-Teachers-Guide-DK/dp/0241335124

DK UK: https://www.dk.com/uk/book/9780241335123-english-for-everyone-teachers-guide/

103 Low-Prep ESL Speaking Games & Activities

Author: Jackie Bolen

A treasure trove of speaking games for all ages and levels. Perfect for busy teachers who want engaging, low-prep activities that boost student confidence and fluency.

Best Features:

• Activities for kids, teens, and adults

• Clear instructions and teaching tips

• Focus on communication and fun

• Great for last-minute lessons

Buy from:

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Low-Prep-Speaking-Activities-Teenagers-Adults/dp/B0CHVZLSGQ

AbeBooks UK: https://www.abebooks.co.uk/products/isbn/9798861211697

39 No-Prep/Low-Prep ESL Speaking Activities

Author: Jackie Bolen

A compact guide packed with speaking activities that require little to no preparation. Ideal for conversation classes and spontaneous teaching moments.

Best Features:

• No materials needed

• Adaptable for different levels

• Encourages student interaction

• Great for substitute or emergency lessons

Buy from:

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Prep-Low-Prep-ESL-Speaking-Activities/dp/1393747973

Mark Evans ESOL Series (Pre-Entry to Level 2)

Author: Mark Evans

This series provides a full progression from Pre-Entry to Level 2, with clear, accessible materials for reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary. Designed for adult learners in the UK ESOL system.

Best Features:

• Level-specific books (Pre-Entry to Level 2)

• Simple layout and practical exercises

• Suitable for classroom or self-study

• Written by an experienced ESOL educator

Buy from:

Amazon UK – Pre Entry English: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pre-Entry-English-Mark-Evans/dp/B08L35G4T6

Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/book/pre-entry-english/mark-evans/9798693331037

Newcomer English

Author: Mark Evans

A foundational workbook designed for learners who are new to English and may have limited formal education. It focuses on building basic writing and communication skills through structured, accessible lessons.

Best Features:

• Step-by-step writing development

• Beginner-friendly layout

• Practical, real-world language use

• Ideal for learners with interrupted education

• Written by an experienced ESOL educator

Buy from:

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Newcomer-English-Mark-Evans/dp/B0DW8RQCCK

Building a New Life in the UK: A Workbook for ESOL Learners

Author: Joanna Bevan (Speak Street)

This workbook supports ESOL learners in adapting to life in the UK. It combines essential English skills with culturally relevant content, helping learners navigate everyday situations and understand British society.

Best Features:

• Focus on UK-specific vocabulary and life skills

• Simple, accessible format for beginners

• Community-oriented and inclusive

• Ideal for use in support groups or integration programs

• Created by a social enterprise supporting migrants and refugees

Buy from:

AbeBooks UK: https://www.abebooks.com/9781838291716/Building-new-life-workbook-beginner-1838291717/plp

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Building-new-life-workbook-learners/dp/1838291717