Welcome to the “Know your Learner” Series. For the month of November we will focus on our learners’ communication nuances and implications for our teaching.
Let’s get started:
Do you use the ENGLISH ONLY POLICY in your lessons? In most English lessons, the ENGLISH ONLY POLICY is enforced. Why? Most teachers explain that they want their learners to use English because practice makes perfect. :)
Then, does L1 (Chinese) have a role to play in learning a second language? In the case of 51Talk teachers and learners, does Chinese have anything to do with learning English online, through you?
The quick and short answer is, L1 is needed as an anchor language that intermediate learners need to refer to. How about beginners, you might ask. Low level learners of English, in particular, those who are not well exposed to the language need to be immersed in it. Understanding and reasoning follows once they have been exposed to the sound and the form of the words, or phrases, or common expressions.
Once they know key phrases and have been right in using them in many practices, we build their confidence in using English and they are on their way to becoming independent learners.
Whilst we wait for them to become independent learners. We have to build the right atmosphere for learning, and constantly adjust our teaching approach, style, and activities to fully immerse them in the language learning process.
How can you know that they are enjoying your class or that they are having a productive session with you if they are not yet fluent in expressing themselves in English? Here are some positive phrases in Chinese. When you hear the following, give yourself a pat on the back after your lessons. Enjoy!
Here are positive phrases expressing agreement:
1. Hao -好
2. Hao ting - 很好听
3. Wo zhidao - 我知道
4. Wo keyi - 我可以
Look up their translations and listen to how they are said:
What positive Chinese phrases do your learners say during your class that encourage you to teach more, and better? Share in the comments below.
On our next post, let’s get to know Chinese phrases that express disappointment and how to make that class fun and enjoyable for our learner. See you! Written by: Lorry Virgo
In my own opinion, teachers must learn some Chinese words in order to understand better our young learners. It's one way of showing how much we care for them. During my class, I let my level 0 students talk in Chinese when their parents are around. Learning a new language is not easy. Talking in a language that they know would make them feel safe and secure. First, ask the parents to be there for support and then, start getting to know the child. Since talking using the English language might not be easy, kid-friendly gestures with friendly props, toys will help. Interesting topic👍.....looking forward to know more about the Chinese language😊