Teaching and Learning
The key to successful progress with any language is speaking, and English is the language you will speak when with Howard and I. We will correspond several times before you arrive so that I have a prior idea of your standard and can prepare accordingly.
There is a great stress on conversation, talking brings language alive and builds confidence.
Lessons will start at 10:00am, finishing at 1:00pm, with opportunities for short breaks for food and drink when necessary!
You will begin with the reinforcement of the level that you already possess, and you will find that you soon build upon it. I am not convinced from experience that repetitive exercises are necessary very often.
A lesson will often develop spontaneously in reaction to something that may have been mentioned on the news, or read in the broadsheet newspapers. It is important that you use current vocabulary, and therefore it is vital to listen to Radio 4, watch the television news and a variety of programmes.
Wherever you go you will be learning; going to the cinema, socialising and chatting generally as well as eating together are all part of the learning process, and practising your language skills.
A topic we will be working on will be set in advance, so that you can do some vocabulary work before the lesson so that you feel more confident.
Creative writing is of great value, along with the examination of the use of language and extension of vocabulary. I have extensive materials, which are provided for you.
You will be taught what YOU feel you need and to YOUR strengths; it is imperative that you feel comfortable and relaxed about your learning.