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How to Make a Conversation Class Keep Going Forward?

Conversation classes are usually those compound of advanced students who are keen  to speak as much English as they can. So the question is: how can I prevent the class from fading away ? Here are some aspects of a conversation class to keep in mind: FIRST, reduce your TTT. I know sometimes it seems really hard not to talk, as a teacher you want to expose your students to as much English as possible, but remember this is their class and they should be the ones in the spotlight , so don't steal their thunder and simply let them talk. However, you have an important role in a conversation class, you should act as a mediator . You should be the one to ask questions and prevent the conversation from dying. SECOND, what is the structure of a conversation? To answer this question you have to ask yourself: How does a conversation kick off ? People tend to respond: With a hello. Yes, that's right, and what's the following line? HOW ARE YOU? Exactly! Therefore, for conversati...
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How Can I Improve My English Even Though I Don't Have Money for an Exchange Program?

Almost every language teachers' dream is to go on an exchange program in a country where people speak the language they teach, but unfortunately, this is a privilege only a few can afford . So the question is, how can one improve their English rather than living in an English speaking country? The answer is simple: immersion . And is it possible to immerse in another language without going on an exchange program? Even though it may sound a little weird it is indeed possible to set up an immersion scenario wherever you are, and that applies especially to English because without a doubt English is the language that has the most materials available online. If you are an English teacher you are probably used to being surrounded by the English language. Seemingly you listen to songs in English, watch movies and series in English, read articles and books in English and so on. However are you mindful while doing those things? Are you focusing all your energy into developing your English...

Teaching a New Group: The First Day

It does not matter whether you are an experienced teacher or a new one, the first day with a new group is not easy. You are probably worried thinking if your students will accept you if your English is good enough for this particular group if the group is too big or yet if you have the sufficient tools to manage the class. I have two good news for you. First, you are not alone, we all go through this feeling of insecurity and self-consciousness . The important thing here is to breath in deeply, relax and face your fears. Although it might seem scary at the beginning students everywhere are interested and eager in learning new things, and I'm sure you as a teacher has something to teach. Second, this blog was designed to help (especially new teachers) to give their first steps into this wonderful world of teaching a second language. So I am here to help you through this process. Two things of paramount importance on the first day: Firstly get to know your students. As i...