intensive one to one course in business English

Helene Dahlberg · Post by **Helene Dahlberg** » Thu Oct 06, 2005 3:50 pm

Hi,
I've been offered to provide a two week intensive course in Business English on a one to one basis, focussing on listening skills.
Any ideas on how to structure such a course? Tips on good course books?!
I've only ever taught General English before and only in groups so I'm feeling a bit apprehensive about the whole thing..

Any tips would be greatly appreciated,

thanks

Helene Dahlberg

JapanG · Post by **JapanG** » Thu Oct 06, 2005 4:14 pm

What level are the students? If they are intermediate to high level, I would suggest business vocabulary to be the focus. Its the only real difference between conversational English and business English since students tend to be more familiar with formal English to begin with. In my opinion, most business centered books are quite dry and usually there is a great deal of listening. I just started using Business Vision, which is Oxford Press. Lots of listening and seems pretty good for intermediate to high. There are a million out there though.
If they are low level, I would focus on basic grammar and vocab on the side.
As for one on one course, I would not worry. Its really easy to create the lesson to their level after the first lesson. Small talk is important in the business enviroment also and if it is one on one he will get lots of listening practice just by conversing with you. The only thing to worry about is if the guy/girl is boring. Makes for a tough class.

joshua2004 · Post by **joshua2004** » Thu Oct 06, 2005 9:10 pm

I answered a similar question here:
http://www.eslcafe.com/forums/teacher/v ... php?t=3973

emile · Post by **emile** » Mon Oct 10, 2005 12:27 am

I disagree with the previous point that the student would get enough listening practise just by listening to you. As a teacher, you will modify your language whereas those in the 'real world' may or may not. It's extremely important, if the student has asked for listening, to bring in audio materials.

Other than that, I guess the first session may be a strain, but after that you'll be fine.

my site: www.roadtogrammar.com

strider · Post by **strider** » Mon Oct 10, 2005 10:13 am

Just one point to think about : intensive courses (especially 1to1) can be very tiring for the trainee and the trainer. I would suggest you use a variety of activities including reading, video and even walking around.

To be more specific, an hour every day using video, for example, can introduce lots of new language and new accents. It is also time when the teacher isn't talking, so the course is less tiring for you!