If you are like me and you primarily prepare your students to take Cambridge exams, then you always find yourself going in circles and explaining different parts of the examination. It isn't rocket science but obviously, some parts are more complicated than others. The handbook provided by Cambridge official helps a lot but I often… Continue reading Cambridge PET – informative brochures
Tag: esl
New chapter: becoming a freelancer
This post was meant to be about something else. However, as I was enjoying what I thought were my last few days of holidays, I received a news so unexpected that it changed my way of thinking and motivated me enough to change my current work ambitions. Let me tell you a story about teaching… Continue reading New chapter: becoming a freelancer
First class – what can you do?
Dear ESL teachers! You've got less than a month of holidays left. Time to mentally prepare for the first day and introduction classes. Do you know what you're going to do this year? I've said it a million times before, and I will say it again - I do NOT like first lessons. In fact,… Continue reading First class – what can you do?
Is it possible to plan for very young learners?
So you've spent the whole weekend crafting an ideal plan for your young learners. You are confident and excited to have this class but the second you enter the classroom, you feel that something is off. Does it mean you've wasted your time? I have immense admiration for all teachers who are truly passionate about… Continue reading Is it possible to plan for very young learners?
Creating a classroom community
There's nothing better than having a group of students who enjoy each other's company. On the first day, it is essential to build a safe space and create a feeling of community. Last year I was combing through the internet for the perfect first class activity for young learners. I wanted something that would help… Continue reading Creating a classroom community
Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 1
The beginning of a speaking exam can be a nerve-racking experience. Speaking Part 1 is designed to break the ice and get to know the candidates. If you have been following me for some time, then you know I have a series on PET Cambridge exam preparation. Check out my previous lesson plans on Writing Part… Continue reading Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 1
Lesson planning – Is it worth it?
Last year I decided to do a little experiment - I decided to plan all of my classes to a tee. Here are some things that I learnt by planning 492 lessons last year. If you are employed at a private language academy in Spain, you will normally be asked to prepare lesson plans in… Continue reading Lesson planning – Is it worth it?
Your last holiday – A2 Adults
One month left! If you're coming back to the same school or academy and you know you're getting the same students as before, it eliminates that awkward first class introductions. Instead, you can focus on something much better - last summer's experience. Last year I had the pleasure of teaching a lovely group of general… Continue reading Your last holiday – A2 Adults
Introduce your classmate
The first day of school is just around the corner! It is always a challenge for me as I am on a never-ending quest to find the perfect introduction lesson activity. Since introducing ourselves can be awkward, why doesn't someone else do it for us? I am yet to prepare a standard introductory class that… Continue reading Introduce your classmate
Laugh it off!
Learning a new language often comes with making mistakes. Some mistakes are natural and relate to first language or mispronunciation. However, every now and then our students make mistakes that can make you laugh uncontrollably. What do you do then? Certain class situations can make you laugh out loud. I guess that's just one of… Continue reading Laugh it off!
