I would need your views on this

[anupumh]

Hi,

What personal qualities and experience should one possess that would enable
him or her to make a success in the field of teaching language using a
communicative approach?

What, and how, would you teach a group of complete beginners in a
particular language?

Thanks

[Teia]

- good knowledge of the structures of the language
- patience
- the ability to make oneself understood
- dedication
- willingness to help students, etc.

[Alipacino]

- good knowledge of the structures of the language
- patience
- the ability to make oneself understood
- dedication
- willingness to help students, etc.

These are right, but first you should be intriguing. If you can't make the students interested in what you're teaching, no matter how hard you try, they will learn nothing.
Make them believe that a new language is a new life, and a new life is what they want.

[Heads Up English]

Hi anupumh,

You also want to create a supportive and friendly environment. Students should see mistakes as a natural part of the learning process, and so mistakes are okay. Questions should be encouraged. Students should take risks with the language, rather than solely restrict themselves to the target structure of the lesson. Experimentation and personalizing the language are also musts.

As the teacher, you have a great deal of control over the environment you establish. It starts with the first lesson, but continues throughout the course. For example, if you lecture a lot, then this creates a teacher-centered classroom. Students may not ask questions or take risks, and will always look to you to determine right/wrong. Similarly, if you shy away from free(r) activities, then students won't have the chance to take risks, experiment, and personalize their conversations. They won't be so able to immediately apply the material beyond the classroom door.

I hope these ideas help.

Have great classes!

Chris Cotter
Be a better teacher with Better Langauge Teaching.