Saturday, December 28, 2013

Teaching English Tips: How To Be A Successful Teacher

English: Teaching and Learning
Teaching and Learning (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
by Chris A. Harmen

If you're interested in moving abroad for a job teaching English, you'll likely find that it's quite different than being a teacher or tutor for native speakers.

However, before you move to start your new career, consider brushing up on some tips to help you become a better teacher.

These aren't the only ways to become successful, but they can certainly help your students learn the language.

Tip #1: Speak Entirely In English

If you've ever tried to learn another language, you know that it can be difficult, especially if you're trying to go back and forth between your new and native tongues.

Studies have shown that immersion classrooms are more successful, mostly because students are forced to switch their brains over to the new language.

If your students are just beginners, they may have problems following along so make sure that you write down any necessary information, such as homework assignments.

Students may need to look up a few words in a translation dictionary before they truly understand, and having the instructions written down will help ensure that they can complete the assignment at home.

Tip #2: Encourage Everyone To Speak Up

Instructors aren't the only ones who should be talking throughout the class. Students should feel free to speak to each other, without worrying about being mocked for making a mistake.

Learning a new language is difficult and everyone needs to actually say the words in order to be effective in their new language! Don't let a few outspoken students run the class though.

Teachers should make an effort to call on each student at least once a session to ensure that everyone is progressing as they should.

Tip #3: Require That Students Write In English

Have you ever met someone who's fluent in another language, but they can't read or write it? These are often people whose families speak other languages, but they learn another in school.

To help your students become successful in all parts of speech, make sure they write, as well as read and speak in the new language.

Tip #4: Make Teaching English Fun

Your class will learn better when they're having fun, even if they're adults. Nothing will put your class to sleep faster than a dry, boring lesson.

Instead, use games and other teaching gimmicks to make the lesson enjoyable for yourself and your class. Pictionary and charades are especially fun, as well as spelling bees and 20 questions.

If you notice that your class prefers certain games to others, try to adapt them for different lessons. Or, ask your students to come up with their own game to teach the class - when they're directly involved in their own education, they'll be more likely to be successful.

These aren't the only ways teachers can be successful when they're teaching English to non-native speakers, but they're certainly a good start. If you can, connect with others who are teaching English and work together to share ideas and strategies that will help you - and your class - to be successful.

For over 20 years, AIDC has been giving native English speakers the chance to find jobs in Abu Dhabi teaching English. These jobs can provide teachers with one of a kind experiences they'll never forget. To learn more about teaching English overseas, please visit http://www.aidcinc.com/.

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