The start of a new school year is closer than we think! Whether you’re new to teaching ESL or an experienced instructor, this article from The Internet TESL Journal is a useful guide for how to teach ESL beginners and Pre-Literate Adults!

The article, entitled, “Tips for Teaching ESL Beginners and Pre-literate Adults” shares several great tips (obviously!) for improving your students’ time in the classroom. A few of my favorites have been shared below.

-Make Sure Personal Connections Come First

                Andrews states, “Before teaching any aspect of language, get to know each student individually. Learners should want to communicate with you first before you can begin to help them learn to communicate in their L2.”

– Communicate Slowly, Clearly and Directly 

Andrews writes that, “Students typically do not understand subtlety in the second language, and there may be times when you need to explain a sensitive issue such as personal etiquette or hygiene.  In such cases, I have found it helpful to use role play to get the point across in a non-threatening yet direct way.”

– Be Animated

“Don’t be afraid to make sound effects, play music, and take walks around the neighborhood to reinforce concepts.  Sometimes the best learning doesn’t even take place in the classroom, and it doesn’t have to be serious to be effective.”

If you’d like to read the entire article, click here.

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