No, it sadly wasn't me who said it, Winston Churchill did. Yet, I'm sure these very words resonate with you just as much as they do with me, and resonate in a hurtful, sad way. Ironically, chances are most of you, dear readers, are, just like me, first of all a teacher, by profession, and/or vocation. Are we then, according to Churchill, doomed to an eternity of people disliking us for what we do, teach? Not when you make your teaching about learning, and this is exactly my agenda for this blog and my professional life. When I am to create a bio/ a profile, I always have the urge to write 'a keen learner', rather than mention my experience as a teacher. It is the culture of learning that I long for, root for and subscribe to. A learner-centered, brain-friendly environment that nourishes motivation, enthusiasm, autonomy, responsibility and the joy of academic discovery and personal growth. Baby steps, by the day, I strive to become less of a 'sage on the stage...
Sometimes students ask to move a conversation lesson outside, onto the grass in the school yard. At first, that may sound like a disruption to your plan, but it can actually become one of the most effective ways to build speaking fluency. The fresh air, the extra movement, and the change of setting often help students relax and speak more naturally. The key is not to treat outdoor learning as a break from structure. In fact, it works best when the task is clear, the timing is short, and students know exactly what they are expected to do. When the purpose is well defined, the school yard becomes a real learning space rather than just a pleasant change of scenery. One of the easiest activities is walk and talk . Students work in pairs, discuss one question while walking, and then change partners after a short time. It is simple, energetic, and ideal for getting everyone speaking. Ready topics for walk and talk: Should school uniforms be required? Is it better to study alone or with othe...