* BA degree in English and Psychology(Counselling) with ten years experience as a High School English teacher.
* Higher Education Diploma (HED) and TEFL with 9 years experience with primary school English teaching.
* Two years in Taiwan at a private school teaching English to Taiwanese primary school learners.
* I am well organised and like working within a structured framework, using lesson plans and assessments. I believe in teaching the "whole" child, using fun techniques, that build self-confidence through positive reinforcement. TPR (Total Physical Response) is vital when accessing a second language, because it puts the words into a context that the student is able to relate to and comprehend. Therefore, of equal importance is t grammar, syntax, as well as the conversational aspects of learning another language.
* When working with primary school aged learners I focus on phonic sounds and shapes of letters.
* The learners learn the alphabet verbally with each sound repeated in many different contexts- for example, using clay to form the shapes.
* We have little puppet shows and use music and artwork as props which reinforces the new sounds and establishes a sense of fun and ease.
* We advance with blended sounds and then CVC ( consonant, vowel, consonant) words.
* We make use of drawings of familiar contexts and sing songs about letters and words.
* With older students we do more study of grammar, vocabulary and syntax. The students learn to read simple texts and with time and confidence progress to more complicated texts.
* Assessments are given regularly, to assist the student in finding out his/her progress. This is important so that a standard and goal can be achieved.
I use the Total Physical Response (TPR) method of teaching a second language. I believe that not only is the grammar, vocabulary and syntax important when learning a new language, but the student must also be able to visualize the word by placing it within a context or situation that is familiar and well known to him or her.
I am foremost a confidence builder, and intend to establish a friendly and open relationship, free from judgement and criticism. The main goal is to learn another language, within a setting that promotes optimal performance and success.