Tips from a fellow tutor
At last weeks’ Tutor Training, we heard from a number of wonderful speakers about their experiences teaching ESL as an LVG volunteer. One of our speakers, Ann Vallombroso, has given us a summary of her talk so that we could share it with the rest of our tutors.
Below is her outline which is full of great tips, insights, and likely, alot of comfort for those navigating the new frontier of ESL.
Preparation is key!
- read all information provided by Literacy Volunteers as it contains invaluable tips and ideas
- use the teacher’s manual as well as the student book and workbook
- teach lessons in the order in which the book presents them for purposes of logic and continuity
- seek out practical and understandable ‘real life’ examples to enrich lessons
- give homework assignments as a review of a current lesson or a preparation for the next one
Organization is essential!
- use a three ring binder to organize yourself sectioned into class information, lessons, homework, other
- use a calendar – a pocket calendar is great
- this is a good teaching tool AND can be used for class organizational purposes
- mark class meetings, important class dates and times
- teach: day, week, month, year; today, yesterday, tomorrow; holidays
- use your first class to verify names, phone numbers, spellings; give them your contact numbers
- have supplies available: pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, small stapler, clips, markers, etc.
Cultural understanding is a must!
- what is important in American culture may not be in theirs
- get to know your students as their customs and culture are important to them
- encourage them to speak (to converse) during the first portion of your class
Flexibility is a great tool!
- some days one must ’go with the flow’
- important questions or happenings (in their lives; in the news) may take precedence over a prepared lesson
- have fun!