Tips for Teaching English: How to Be a Successful Teacher

If you are interested in moving abroad to work as an English teacher, you will likely find that it is quite different from being a teacher or tutor for native speakers. However, before starting your new career, consider going over some tips that will help you become a better teacher. These are not the only ways to be successful, but they can certainly help your students learn the language.

Tip No. # 1: Speak fully in English

If you’ve ever tried to learn another language, you know it can be difficult, especially if you’re trying to switch between your native and new languages. Studies have shown that immersion classrooms are more successful, primarily because students are forced to switch their brains to the new language. If your students are just beginners, they may have trouble following the course, so be sure to write down all the necessary information, such as homework assignments. Students may need to look up some words in a translation dictionary before they really understand, and having the instructions written will help ensure that they can complete the assignment at home.

Tip No. # 2: Encourage Everyone to Speak Up

Instructors are not the only ones who should speak throughout the class. Students should feel free to talk to each other, without worrying about being teased for making a mistake. Learning a new language is difficult and everyone needs to say the words to be effective in their new language! However, don’t let a few outspoken students lead the class. Teachers should make an effort to call each student at least once per session to ensure that everyone is progressing as they should.

Tip # 3: Require students to write in English

Have you ever met someone who is fluent in another language, but cannot read or write it? These are usually people whose families speak other languages, but learn another at school. To help your students be successful in all parts of speaking, make sure they write, read, and speak in the new language.

Tip # 4: Make Teaching English Fun

Your class will learn best when they are having fun, even if they are adults. Nothing will put your class to sleep faster than a dry and boring lesson. Instead, use games and other teaching tricks to make the lesson enjoyable for you and your class. Pictionary and charades are especially fun, as well as spelling bees and 20 questions. If you find that your class prefers certain games to others, try adapting them for different lessons. Or ask your students to create their own game to teach the class; when they are directly involved in their own education, they are more likely to be successful.

These are not the only ways that teachers can be successful when teaching English to non-native speakers, but they are certainly a good start. If you can, connect with other people who are teaching English and work together to share ideas and strategies that will help you, and your class, be successful.