Amaia Fitzwilliam

My experience in teaching English as a foreign language is mainly with group classes. However, I have had two students over the past year that I taught individually and I prefer that approach as it allows me to cater the lessons to their specific needs. English is a complicated language, especially for someone with a little familiarity. So, I would like to get to know my students first and how they learn so that I can cater my lessons individually. There would be general classes as there are skills needed for everyone to carry a basic conversation, but I intend to take into account how each student learns when creating a curriculum. As a foreign language student myself, I see the value in making sure that I understand and adhere to the way students learn as everyone is different.

For instance, a first-time English student would have a curriculum where each module deals with certain circumstances they might approach in everyday life. These modules will include the grammar and vocabulary needed to carry out conversations with English speakers with ease. An example of modules would be:
1. Greetings and Descriptions of Home and Family
2. In My Free Time: How to Discuss Activities and Interests
3. Time Machine: Exploring the past, present, and future, etc.

I would also include homework and specific activities along with classes dedicated to the cultural exploration of an English-speaking country so that classes remain dynamic. As we progress there will be assessments so that I can check in with students. These will not be very daunting. They might include having a conversation or testing vocabulary and grammar through short quizzes to writing a short piece.