Teacher Discussion Forums

Hello, everyone,

For the past 7 years, I've worked as a native speaker in three separate private institutions in Korea. The last one I worked at went out of business last month. The director's older brother and I have come together in the wake of that to for a private tutoring business. Problem is, I haven't done any sort of private tutoring before and I'm really stuck for ideas on how to create a teaching syllabus.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Fred

Start at the beginning and read a few things!

Hi Fred

First I’d like to say congratulations on your decision. Go for it!

I would say that you have a fair bit of work ahead of you, but don’t despair. For now, before you ‘write’ your own syllabus, try the following.

1 You need to find a set of books that you will be working with, from beginner to advanced level - they don’t have to be from the same set, but think of implications.

2 You need to find a good test to use to assess your potential students’ level. Here I would recommend the ‘Spectrum” English Placement Test. I use it and it’s accurate.

3 You will need to develop a test to test your students progress. If I were you I would look for course books that have development tests in them.

For now, I would say that you have a good bit of work to do. My advice is, be very professional, treat your students fairly and strive to improve your professional development. Never stop learning about the profession Fred, and you’ll be OK. Don’t forget about professional marketing of your school.

Good luck

GaryWolf