Teaching the English language to absolute beginners is a challenging task, but also one that is rewarding and fun. You will be teaching language in a "real-world" sense; the people you will be teaching can immediately utilize their language skills so they can adapt, find employment and communicate with other English speakers. There are practical as well as fun teaching methods to help successfully teach English as a second language.

1

Find an ESL course or video that adequately fits your teaching needs. Many ESL course outlines are available for free on the Web. Find a course that not only teaches basic English phrases, but intermediate and advanced grammar as well. (See Resources.)

2

Know your students as people, and not just pupils. Spend the first several lessons teaching introductions, and allow the students to interact freely with you and the other students. Ask students about their families and teach them the corresponding English phrases. The students will feel more comfortable with you and with each other after introductions have been taught and made.

3

Teach lessons in the order provided by the course outline, but allow opportunities to go "off script." Those who are learning English as a second language will need to learn phrases and words that correspond with real-life events. If someone has a sick child or family member, discuss words and phrases associated with doctors, sickness and wellness. If a student is tardy, take the opportunity not to admonish the student, but to teach public transportation methods and how to tell time.

4

Speak often instead of just writing words on the blackboard for students to copy. Depending on their knowledge of English, the students may have a hard time trying to cognitively digest words while writing them at the same time. Bring in props or use hand gestures that correspond with the lesson to effectively review concepts. PowerPoint slides are also a good way to demonstrate pictures and words together.

5

Know some of the language that is native to your pupils. It is a great idea to know basic words and phrases in the language that your students are already accustomed to hearing. Familiarize yourself with their customs. Some cultures can be offended by certain gestures. Try to see things through the eyes of your students as much as possible.

6

Bring in snacks, and don't be wary of taking the students outside of the classroom. Any opportunity you have to teach them English in a real-world setting is helpful. This includes food and food phrases, taking a walk and reading street signs, or taking them to an event.