What Should a Good ESL Teacher Know?

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While the number of immigrants in English-speaking countries such as Australia is rapidly increasing, the number of qualified ESL (English as a second language) teachers is not meeting this growing demand. Being an ESL teacher is not the easy job. It requires a lot of skills and training. But, what are the facts that a good ESL teacher should know?

Becoming an ESL teacher gives a unique multi-cultural opportunity. One of the biggest advantages of getting a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) qualification is the chance to work abroad. Despite “formal” qualifications and ESL specific training, what skills are most important to make a difference for foreign students?

A Genuine Relationship with Students

Some studies found that teachers who honestly care about their students have a significant impact on the students’ attitudes, motivation and behavior. These students work harder and are more successful learners. They learn English faster and display better skills.

Understanding of a Student’s Cultural Background

A teacher who openly welcomes students and accepts the cultural differences can help with an easier acceptance by the school environment. When a students feel valued, they are more willing to assimilate into the English-speaking culture, to make friends and increase opportunities to use English.

Training in Second Language Education

Quality professional training development opportunities need to be available to assist these teachers. Instruction needs to be ongoing and offered in a whole array of learning formats from short workshops and one-time inservices to online classes.

Understanding the Individual Needs of Students

It is helpful to assess the student’s language proficiency and educational history. The design of the classroom lessons can then be individualised to focus on each student’s functional English level in the areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Encouraging English Conversations

Students who more actively engage outside the classroom in community activities cultivate friendships and interests which help with broadening language acquisition. When students feel more confident and have some degree of language skill, they can be encouraged to join other school- and community-related activities.

A Willingness to Connect with Communities

Teachers need to analyse what skills are most important to learn at any given time, and then teach those. As students progress through a hierarchy of skills and meet success, their learning will soar. Lessons that are built on high interest and tied to the present needs of the students work well.