10 TEFL shortcuts

Описание: There is an overemphasis on the importance of grammar knowledge and grammar teaching which often leaves trainees confused and unprepared for the classroom.
Understanding all the elements involved in teaching and learning English and how they fit together is an essential starting point for language teachers.

The three-step process: Subject Knowledge, Input, Delivery.
Subject knowledge: English Language, Language Learning, Memory.
Input: Topics, Language Focus, Learner Training
Delivery: Qualities & Habits, Activities, Classroom Management

The four basic elements required for language learning: memory, exposure, motivation and engagement, which should underpin everything you do in class.
Three main elements of the language: lexis, phonology, grammar.
Two different kinds of memory: declarative for vocabulary, procedural for grammar.
Three elements of the language to focus on in class: common vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar (for written exams)
My ‘TEFL periodic table’ provides a clear visual representation of all the elements involved in learning and teaching languages.

10 TEFL shortcuts to better teaching
Shortcut #1: How languages are learnt, your strengths are as a native speaker, how to use that to your
advantage. Creating the right learning environment with posters.
Shortcut #2: Overview of the history of English.
Shortcut #3: Pronunciation.
Shortcut #4: Memory.
Shortcut #5: 10 facts about language learning.
Shortcut #6: Using coursebooks, what students want and error correction.
Shortcut #7: Lesson planning. Good teacher behaviour: personal qualities, preparation and lesson plan, delivery, use of resources, knowledge of the language, feedback/correction techniques and general class management and direction.
Shortcut #8: How to get started with a topic-based lesson, more detail on the checklist in shortcut #7.
Shortcut #9: Becoming self-sufficient: a list of over 70 classroom activities, organised by activity type.
Shortcut #10: The impact of new technology on language teaching and a list of twenty things to consider doing to progress with a career in ELT.