Vivienne

I have been teaching English for well over a dozen years. I have thought at every level and every age from absolute beginners to almost bilingual speakers, from 3 year-old children to 70-year old adults. From doctors, managers, actors, diplomats to military officers, police officers, gardeners, cooks, bank managers, parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents!! My classes are dynamic, energetic and above all fun. Before the classes start, I think it is important to assess thoroughly the...

I have been teaching English for well over a dozen years. I have thought at every level and every age from absolute beginners to almost bilingual speakers, from 3 year-old children to 70-year old adults. From doctors, managers, actors, diplomats to military officers, police officers, gardeners, cooks, bank managers, parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents!! My classes are dynamic, energetic and above all fun. Before the classes start, I think it is important to assess thoroughly the needs of the student, discussing the hours of availability, the objective of the classes and what short/long term plans they have. It is vital to set clear guidelines and make it clear that success or improvement is directly proportionate to time and effort made by both teacher AND student alike for the duration of the classes. It is vital NOT to make false promises or set unreal objectives, eg: in a fortnight you can go from Lower Intermediate to Upper Intermediate level. I like to guide the class and let the student speak as much as possible, errors and mistakes are important to pick up on and highlight at the end of the speaking sessions/class. Homework is also important, it is necessary to be disciplined and dedicated. Otherwise frustration, resentment, bordeom may arise. Class subjects can be about anything under the sun. It is important for the student to participate in this process and not be so passive. Making suggestions and thinking about what vocabulary/subject area they need to improve on. I think it is essential to come to class with the right attitude and well prepared, be open to learning, to correction, to let the feeling of embarrassment outside the door of the classroom, and to be willing to try at the very least. I love teaching, I try to transmit this in my classes. I hope my students love learning. Above all, I hope my students have fun and enjoy the experience of being in the classroom with me.