Teaching English as a
Second Language (ESL) is not an easy task. In other words, it is really taxing.
However, with these few tips, you can achieve success:
1. Be Different
Memorable ESL
teachers are often successful teachers. They usually obtain more classes or
private students through word of mouth and recommendations from former
students. So how do you become memorable? You are memorable when you’re
different and unlike any other teacher a student has had before.
And how do you
accomplish that? If you let your inner personality shine through, you will be
different – guaranteed. Don’t be a robot that spews lists of verbs and
explanations on when to use each tense. Be yourself and let your students get
to know you and what makes you different from other teachers.
2. Don’t
Lose Sight of Your Mission
We’ve already
established that as a teacher you’re not out to make loads of money. So, what
is your mission as an ESL teacher? To help your students achieve their language
learning goals, whether it is to speak, write or understand English better.
Don’t lose sight of this, and you will help them succeed, which in turn will
make you successful as well.
3. Be
Helpful
Successful
teachers go above and beyond their expected tasks. They recommend materials for
extra practice. They provide information students request. They do research on
an examination a student might want to take. Does this take up more of your
time? Of course it does! But your students’ deepest appreciation is absolutely
priceless.
4. Deliver
Results
Successful ESL
teachers deliver results that can be easily seen and measured by students, and
not just by means of exam grades. Always review with your students the goals
they have achieved in the semester and at the end of the year. More
than a number on a test, they need to see exactly what they learned and compare
it to what they didn’t know in the past.
5. Be
Passionate
Successful ESL
teachers teach everything with passion, even things that are less
than interesting like Reported Speech or the Subjunctive Mood. Passion is
contagious when transmitted properly, and passionate students learn more.
Source: The Teaching Revolution
Tags:
Teachers' Guide
