Teacher Discussion Forums

hello-i am beginning a 8 week course (12 hours a day) to train guides in mexico. we are training them about birds, plants, animals and insects. they range in age from 19-35 years old. It is a content based ESP class. I would appreciate any info on methods, etc. also the staff has told me that i should just concentrate on teaching speaking skills and not to teach reading and writing. i am concerned that that may hamper them later. i would appreciate any coments on this topic. thanks, paco

Most if not all ESP courses are tailor-made for their target audiences. For nature guides, you should consider what they will need to use the English for.

Describing the animals and plants, their habitats and habits, and the climate.
Giving directions and cautions.