Teaching ESL can be Easy and Convenient

https://www.wordsworthelt.com/blog/teaching-esl-can-be-easy-and-convenient/
• english as a second language, Teaching ESL
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It is felt by many that, teachers of English as a second language have a far more interesting ‘job’ than teachers of other subjects. Despite the limitation one has as a teacher due to boundaries of set curriculum and predesigned courses, the ESL teacher does not need to feel pressured to teach with reins on. S/he on the other hand is instrumental in introducing new cultures and maybe even an insight into new literature to the learners.While playing within the boundaries of the syllabus, she can create an environment of language acquisition in class and hence take it beyond mere learning of the form of language. Games and activities, listening to and telling stories and anecdotes, discussing books and talking about authors can all add to the fun element to teaching English language.

The ESL teacher, by introducing and developing English language skills of the learners in a way assists and facilitates the learning of other core subjects which are usually taught in English.

This effect of English language on other subjects works well for the ESL teacher. The fact that English language learning has a direct and visible impact on the learners is very motivating for them. There is a strong desire in them to learn this language. They see it directly and positively affecting their performance in other subjects and hence see their efforts in learning English bearing fruit.

Also, more often than not, other than their mother tongue, English is perhaps the only other language that they are going to be using in their environment. Their desire to learn the language will be enhanced when they realise the difference the use of this language is making to their acceptability in their social circle. The added advantage of being able to communicate in a language with which prestige and status is associated lends a further impetus to learn.

The ESL teacher can leverage these positive factors in urging them towards bettering themselves in the language. An integrated approach towards teaching the language will ensure that they get results faster. The learners when going through a structured learning programme involving listening, speaking, reading and writing find themselves translating their classroom learning objectives into a language they can use in real life.

With so much advantage at hand, the ESL teacher has to just ensure that the class sessions are fun-filled and meaningful to get results. With the variables already in her favour as compared to core subject teachers, the ball is literally in her court. Support can be garnered through the use of good English language labs which provide tools to language enrichment and enhancement. A good English language lab generally is equipped with tools for the teacher to make teaching of language skills easier, thus maintaining the interest of his/her learners.