Chapter 2: Looking at What TEFL Teachers Actually Do 23
Is it okay if I don’t ‘talk posh’?
Yes, but you need to have good grammar and a clear speaking voice, with
or without a regional accent. If native speakers have trouble following you,
you need to make some changes. However, there’s no point trying to sound
aristocratic because the vast majority of students are unlikely to mix with the
upper-class set in real life anyway.
Will the students like me?
Although you should aim to put your students at ease so that they’re more
receptive to learning, you’re not there to be their best mate. Students should
like your lessons and respect you as their teacher. If they happen to like you
personally, it’s a bonus, not a prerequisite for a good course. In general, you can
be a likeable teacher by being fair, considerate, responsible and well prepared.
How will I know what to do?
If at all possible, get yourself some training and observe some lessons before
you start teaching. Once you’ve done that, speak to your colleagues for tips
and guidance.
Use up-to-date course books to help you. Most course books have a teachers’
book too that gives you a complete lesson plan and some even include online
training so you can see model lessons.
Talking to Students and So Much More – Teaching Basics
The human brain is a marvellous instrument with the built-in capacity to
decipher language. If you hear the same words in the same context enough,
you start to work out what they mean – it’s like cracking a code. You discov-
ered this as a baby. Mum said the word ‘teddy’ every time she waved that
cuddly little chap in front of your face and pretty soon you made the connec-
tion. Perhaps your Indian neighbour says ‘Namaste!’ every time he sees you.
Pretty soon you understand that this means ‘Hello!’
