Job Discussion Forums

[nickpellatt]

Two sides to this coin IMO.

Trifaro does state he tends to have the more troublesome classes, and Im assuming this is in a Uni setting so classes are probably large too. Getting through those classes and remaining sane can be a tall order for some, and not every teacher can manage to keep them engaged long enough, and often enough, to make the class worthwhile. I wouldnt want to do those classes if truth be told. Not worth it for me, and its not what I enjoy. Kudos to people who can do that week in, week out.

The flipside though, is something you mention yourself Trifaro. The 'teaching grammar' and using powerpoint. Great teachers (and Id like to be one someday) dont teach grammar at all. The facilitate conversation or oral based tasks where the students have to 'use' grammar, not teach it. A simple example would be an oral task of students deciding which holiday to book from a choice of three, with the target language being the use of comparatives. Conversation has been facilitated, and because a target structure is being used, the teacher can identify and isolate mistakes, correct students or give students the chance to self correct and reinforce the rules. There is no reason this lesson cant be as fun and engaging as any other lesson ... and its not dull grammar.

I think the key point is a great teacher who can engage students, and knows how to use grammar or language points to facilitate conversation will probably do a better job for their students as in all likelihood, the students will gain both fluency and accuracy, and make fewer mistakes as a result of it.

Like I say, fair play to you if your students like you, and you do a good job in the eyes of your employers, but a great teacher who does know grammar etc would probably be able to do more..

[The Edge]