Bringing English to Life Through Animals, Stories and Real-World Learning
Creating an engaging English learning journey
The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) provides free English language tuition to eligible migrants and humanitarian entrants in Australia. The program helps learners develop the language skills and confidence they need to participate in everyday life, education, work and their local communities.
As part of the AMEP, trainer and published author David Cairns has used the theme “Animals and People” to create a fun, practical and engaging learning journey. By connecting classroom activities with stories, films and real-world experiences, David has given learners meaningful opportunities to practise their English in different settings.
Learning through an original story
Students have been reading and discussing simplified chapters from I Used to Be an Animal Lover, a book written by David himself.
Learning from an original work created by their own trainer added a personal dimension to the experience. The story encouraged students to explore new vocabulary, discuss ideas and strengthen their reading comprehension while engaging directly with a published author.
Developing language skills through film
David extended the theme through animal-focused films, including The Secret Life of Pets and The Black Stallion.
Structured activities based on the films supported learners to develop and practise:
Listening comprehension
Speaking and pronunciation
Animal-related vocabulary
Group discussion skills
Film review writing
These activities helped students build practical English skills while exploring the theme through entertaining and accessible stories.
Taking learning beyond the classroom
The learning journey also included a visit to a local pet shop, where students could use English in an authentic community setting.
During the excursion, learners asked questions, interacted with staff and observed different animals. Back in the classroom, they used their new vocabulary and knowledge to prepare and present reports about the experience.
This activity connected language learning with everyday communication, helping students build confidence in asking questions, sharing information and speaking in front of others.
Building English skills through meaningful experiences
This creative approach demonstrates how a meaningful theme can support language development in powerful ways. By combining reading, film, discussion, excursions and writing tasks, David created opportunities for learners to practise English in enjoyable, authentic and confidence-building contexts.
The activities also allowed students to develop several language skills around one shared topic, reinforcing their learning while encouraging curiosity, participation and connection.
Program funding and delivery
The Adult Migrant English Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. MAX Solutions RTO 0667 is subcontracted by Navitas to deliver the program.