I believe that learning is more than acquiring new knowledge; it changes you and the way you view the world. It is an honorable and yet a difficult task to be the one who teaches. I think teaching is the ability to share the knowledge with learners and help them understand. As a teacher I show the way and equip with necessary tools and skills while learners take their share of responsibility for studying and applying what they have been taught. I work to create a learning environment for my students that goes beyond their textbooks, beyond the education their school can provide them. It can often be difficult to motive students in their own learning, but I have found the most important thing is that the students have a learning environment where they feel safe and relaxed.
Students learn foreign languages for many reasons; nevertheless the ultimate goal of learning is to be able to use a foreign language either in the everyday communication or in a particular context. The objectives of the lesson differ but the main focus remains the same - to provide a set of language skills that can be used in real life. I use a variety of activities to ensure that every new language form or function is able to be transferred from the classroom to the outside world.
I make learning goals structured and realistic. My lessons incorporate different types of activities to help the students understand the grammar and ideas being presented through their textbook. While it is often important to follow the textbook, it does not mean one has to be tied to the textbook. I like to use fun activities apart from the textbook in order to help the students achieve their goals and improve their speaking, listening and reading skills. I deliver new information by providing proper explanations and using other resources as necessary, such as videos, pictures, flashcards, songs, etc. I make sure that there is enough time to answer their questions and provide corrective feedback when necessary.
As an English language teacher for foreigners, I am always interested in new and upcoming advances for my students because I search for new ways to facilitate the learning process. I combine the best from both traditional methods and modern approaches. I stimulate the learners’ interest by introducing activities that appeal to their personalities and backgrounds; I often raise a topic of general interest to address their intrinsic motivation. I plan my activities carefully so that lessons are well paced. I have discovered that extra activities prepared beforehand serve me well when the lesson plan needs adjustment.
My way of teaching is positive and encouraging. I make every classroom hour an exciting adventure - informative, motivating and challenging. I make sure the students understand that learning English, is not an easy task, and celebrate their victories in learning. I continually remind them that mistakes are okay, and that I only ask them to keep trying and do their best.
Teaching English to foreigners provides outstanding opportunities for my professional and personal growth. I am always learning along with my students. I am not a perfect teacher, I continue to find new and better ways to help my students learn. My students teach me lessons which I am willing to learn: cultural differences, psychological issues, and interpersonal communication. I continue to be amazed by the power of learning another language. I only hope to help create students with a bigger world view and the willingness to do something challenging, whether it be learning a language, moving to another country, or becoming a teacher.