Strategies for Teaching English to Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide for Teachers

Teaching English to beginners can be both challenging and rewarding. Whether you are an experienced educator or new to the field, these strategies can help you create an effective and engaging learning environment for your students. Here are some key steps and tips to consider when starting to teach English.

Getting to Know Your Students

The first step in teaching English to beginners is to get to know your students. Learn their names, find out how much English they know, and ensure that everyone is comfortable with each other. Don't assume that they all know each other; make sure that everyone feels at ease. This is crucial for successful speaking exercises and role plays.

Start by asking questions to understand their current level of English. Are they true beginners who know nothing about English? Or are they false beginners who have learned some English at school but never spoke it much? Knowing their background will help you tailor your teaching approach.

Planning Your Course

For True Beginners:

True beginners need a comprehensive course that starts from scratch. Begin by teaching them the basics of the English language, including letters, sounds, and simple sentences. One effective method is to use short vowel sounds and a few consonants to create simple words and sentences. As you progress, introduce new sounds and more words to help them build vocabulary and comprehension.

Use resources like the ‘Bob’ books, but adapt them for adult learners. Teach one short vowel sound and a handful of consonants that can be combined to make words and simple sentences. Use the Bob books to introduce new sounds and words. After the first class, students can start to form basic sentences using these sounds and words. This approach helps them learn English in context, making it more interesting and satisfying.

Another essential aspect of teaching true beginners is to introduce them to subject pronouns with the verb 'to be' (am, is, are). Start with simple questions and answers using 'I' and 'you,' then gradually introduce 'he, she, it, we, and they.'

For False Beginners:

False beginners have some knowledge of English, but not enough to communicate fluently. In this case, you need to go through the A1 grammar points and ensure that you cover all the foundational elements that are often missed in beginner workbooks.

To teach vocabulary, use a technique called triangulation, where you show photos with three or more images to help students identify the thing in the photo that the word matches. This method can be particularly effective with adult learners. For children, use animated drawings instead.

Setting Expectations and Building Confidence

It's important to set clear expectations for class behavior, attendance, and learning. Discuss your expectations for the class and how they can best learn a new language. Address the common concerns and anxieties that beginner students may have, such as nervousness and the fear of making mistakes. Reassure them that it's normal to feel nervous and that mistakes are a part of the learning process.

To help students build confidence, model and 'give' the answer, and then ask them to repeat it in small groups and eventually individually. Encourage them to learn at least one phrase that they can use with confidence in class, and point out the progress they make at the end of each session. Celebrate their achievements to boost their confidence and enthusiasm.

Conclusion and Good Luck

Teaching English to beginners requires a structured, patient, and engaging approach. By following these strategies, you can create a learning environment where your students can grow and flourish. Remember, the key to success is to make learning enjoyable and meaningful for them. Good luck on your teaching journey!