TEFL Baldwinville Masachusetts

This course was very informative and helpful in various ways. It was very useful to learn about the different types of learners and the different approaches to use for each type. Being shown the differences between adult, child and teenage learners was especially important, as well as your approach would differ when teaching students of lower levels versus those who are of a higher level. Although it wasn't the high point of the course, the refresher on the finer points of grammar was much appreciated; I learned a few things that I never knew a great deal about such as the perfect continuous tenses. The grammar lessons also gave me a few things to ponder, such as when to use certain tenses over others. The part about reported speech was new to me; I had followed the rules unconsciously without even being aware that there was even a set of rules to follow. Being shown how to manage classrooms effectively was another very useful lesson. I plan on communicating the rules very early on, and sticking to my guns, so to speak. I also understand that idiomatic speech will be problematic, and that I will have to adjust my manner of speaking so that students will be able to understand. This includes using the correct speaking pace, clarity as well as language of the appropriate level. I learned how important it is to have a strategy in place in order to anticipate any problems that may arise during a lesson. Although it's impossible to foresee all the problems students may have, a lesson plan is a handy tool for keeping track of what material was already covered. The importance of testing was made more apparent to me, giving me a better understanding of the roles it plays when it comes to evaluation and placement. The tips on how to use the different types of teaching equipment and tools effectively was another key lesson. It was useful to have been shown the various approaches and things to keep in mind when teaching students a new language. Overall, the students need to be given as much time as possible to experiment with the new language – writing, conversing, and reading. There are many components that come into play when teaching a new language. No doubt grammar and pronunciation are also very important aspects of language. Learning all the ins and outs of the english language will undoubtedly be a drag for students at times. However, material that is engaging and thought provoking and that has real-world bearing will help to enhance the student experience, as well as giving them a boost in confidence. There are many aspects the teacher must take into consideration: they must be attentive and sensitive to the students' needs. The teacher of course plays a pivotal role when it comes to respect in the classroom. Students must be able to learn in a supportive environment where the teacher takes a vested interest in the students' progress as well as their interests. Although I have just begun my journey to being an educator, I feel as though this course primed me well for the first steps of my career.