05 September 2016 – Osman Bedel –
English Language Teaching (ELT) is a dynamic and constantly evolving field that requires teachers to have a variety of skills and knowledge. Effective teaching of English involves not only the mastery of the language but also the ability to plan, organize and deliver lessons that engage and motivate learners. This article discusses some important aspects of English Language Teaching. To become an effective ELT teacher, there are certain teaching skills, roles, and techniques that need to be applied in the classroom.
Teaching Skills:
Effective teaching skills are essential for any ELT teacher. They include the ability to communicate effectively, to motivate students, to provide clear and concise instructions, and to manage the classroom effectively. ELT teachers also need to have a deep understanding of the English language and be able to explain it in simple terms to their students.
Roles of Language Teachers and Learners:
The role of the ELT teacher is not only to provide instruction but also to facilitate learning. They need to create a positive learning environment and encourage students to take an active role in their learning. The role of the student is to be an active participant in the learning process, to ask questions, to engage in discussions, and to practice the language regularly.
How to Begin and End a Lesson:
Starting a lesson is a crucial moment for the ELT teacher as it sets the tone for the rest of the class. To begin a lesson, ELT teachers can use a warm-up activity, a short video or audio clip, or an engaging discussion topic. To end a lesson, ELT teachers can summarize the main points covered, assign homework or review questions, or even ask students to give feedback on the lesson.
How to Use Audio-Visual Aids and Give Instructions in the Language Class:
Audio-visual aids are an effective way to enhance the learning experience for ELT students. ELT teachers can use pictures, videos, or audio clips to explain concepts, introduce new vocabulary, or spark discussions. It is also important to give clear and concise instructions, and to check that students have understood them before moving on to the next activity.
Professional Development:
Professional development is an essential aspect of ELT teaching. ELT teachers should attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to keep up-to-date with the latest teaching techniques and to exchange ideas with other teachers. They can also participate in online courses, read professional journals, or even pursue higher education in ELT.
How to Apply Fundamental Principles of Classroom Teaching into Actual Classroom Context:
To apply the fundamental principles of classroom teaching into the actual classroom context, ELT teachers need to use a student-centered approach, provide opportunities for practice, and provide feedback to students. ELT teachers should also be flexible, adapt to the needs of their students, and be willing to try new teaching techniques.
As has been demonstrated in this article, ELT is a complex and challenging process, but it can be a rewarding experience for both the teacher and the student. Effective ELT teachers need to have a deep understanding of the English language, be able to communicate effectively, manage the classroom effectively, and be willing to continuously learn and improve their teaching skills. By applying the fundamental principles of classroom teaching, ELT teachers can create a positive and engaging learning environment for their students, resulting in improved language proficiency and a love for the English language.