Teaching English

Bina Venkatesh | Teacher | Welham Boys School

What is Teaching English?

Teaching English is a great Career option. Almost everyone seems to be talking about How to start a Career in Teaching English, while one should first develop an understanding of What is a Career in Teaching English. Just like you would normally not trust a non Doctor with names of medicines, you should also not trust opinions about Teaching English from non professionals.

Teacher Bina Venkatesh invested 20 years in Teaching English. Teacher Bina Venkatesh defines Teaching English as:

Teaching English as a Foreign Language refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages. TEFL can occur either within the state school system or more privately, at a language school or with a tutor.

How Teacher Bina Venkatesh got into Teaching English?

After completing my Schooling from Nagpur University, I did my Graduation in Commerce from Nagpur University itself. I also did my Post Graduation in Public Administration. I have also done my B Ed as a correspondence course. I have been teaching English and Social Studies in Welham Boys.

Teacher Bina Venkatesh's Talk on Teaching English

Exploring a Career in Teaching English: Insights from an Experienced Educator Teaching English as a career can be rewarding and impactful, merging the art of language with the joy of nurturing young minds. Bina, an educator with over two decades of experience, offers valuable insights into the nuances of teaching English, the skills required, and the challenges faced in the profession. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the career path of an English teacher, structured around key areas of education, skills, positives, challenges, and a glimpse into a typical day on the job. What Is Teaching English? Teaching English involves communicating ideas and imparting knowledge about the language and its literature to students. This profession not only requires a thorough understanding of English grammar and vocabulary but also an appreciation of literature—from poetry to prose. For instance, Bina emphasizes the need to be well-read and remain updated with English literature to effectively engage students in discussions about texts. This passionate approach aids in fostering a love for language among students, allowing them to appreciate its nuances and complexities. Education Vocabulary An extensive vocabulary is crucial for any English teacher. It enhances communication skills and ensures clarity when teaching. Bina notes that frequent reading can significantly improve vocabulary, which in turn boosts both pronunciation and diction. For example, she encourages her students to explore various authors to understand stylistic differences, making them better communicators. Subject Knowledge Deep subject knowledge is non-negotiable in the teaching profession. Bina shares that despite her postgraduate degree in public administration, her enthusiasm for literature drives her to continually learn. Understanding the historical context behind literary works, such as knowing about Percy Shelley's circumstances when writing “Ode to the West Wind,” allows teachers to convey deeper meaning to their students, enhancing their comprehension and retention. Teaching Methodology Effectiveness in teaching often comes down to methodology. Bina advocates for interactive teaching approaches rather than traditional, monotonous lectures. For instance, she incorporates technology and creative activities, like using speech bubbles for artistic expression, which not only makes learning enjoyable but also encourages active participation from students. Latest Information Staying updated with modern educational trends and literary developments is essential for English teachers. Bina suggests that educators should frequently seek out new resources, attend workshops, and collaborate with peers to bring fresh ideas into the classroom. This commitment not only benefits student learning but inspires other educators as well. Authors A knowledgeable teacher must also be familiar with a range of authors and literary styles to inspire students. Bina encourages her students to read diverse materials—from contemporary novels to classic literature, fostering a broader understanding of language and its applications. This also aids in developing their own writing skills as they analyze various styles. Skills Pronunciation & Diction Effective communication hinges on clear pronunciation and diction. Bina emphasizes that English teachers need to adopt a neutral accent to ensure students understand spoken English. She explains that students often model their speech on their teachers, hence the importance of clear communication in the classroom. Interpersonal Skills Building rapport with students and colleagues is vital. Bina asserts that being approachable allows teachers to connect better with students, which can foster a more conducive learning environment. Open communication lays the groundwork for effective trust-building. Communication Strong communication skills are fundamental in teaching. Bina believes a teacher must convey ideas succinctly and coherently, ensuring that messages resonate with students. This is essential not only in teaching content but also in nurturing a positive classroom atmosphere. Patience Teaching students of varying abilities necessitates profound patience. Bina highlights that the classroom environment can be dynamic and sometimes chaotic, requiring educators to adapt and manage different personalities effectively. Understanding that learning is a process helps teachers remain calm and supportive. Time Management Teachers must balance a range of responsibilities while adhering to strict timelines. Time management becomes critical, as Bina points out the necessity to cover syllabuses and assess student progress within limited periods. This juggling act ensures that students meet learning objectives without feeling overwhelmed. Observation Being observant allows teachers to gauge student engagement and comprehension. Bina emphasizes interpreting students' body language, which can reveal whether they are grasping concepts or are emotionally struggling. This ability can lead to proactive interventions that support students' needs. Counselling Skills Teachers often play a role akin to that of a counselor. With close contact in a boarding school setting, Bina finds herself offering emotional support to students facing personal challenges, which reflects the multifaceted nature of teaching. Trust Building Creating a relationship based on trust is paramount in education. Bina notes that teachers should foster a secure environment where students feel comfortable seeking help. A trusting relationship enhances learning and encourages students to share their struggles openly. Positives Overcoming Generation Gap Teaching equips educators with insights into the current generation, bridging communication gaps between teens and parents. Bina highlights how her role enables her to better understand students, making her an effective communicator and mentor. Work Life Balance The flexibility of teaching often allows educators like Bina to maintain a favorable work-life balance. School vacations align with students’ breaks, enabling teachers to spend quality time with their families while still fulfilling professional responsibilities. Constant Learning In the teaching profession, educators are perpetual learners. Bina relishes the opportunity to continually absorb new information and methodologies, stating that engaging with students often refreshes her own understanding and enthusiasm for the subject matter. Respect & Recognition Teaching is regarded as a noble profession and brings with it a certain level of respect. Bina relays the sense of fulfillment that comes from being viewed as a mentor and guide, garnering affection from students who recognize the importance of their teacher in their lives. Challenges Meeting Deadlines Time constraints impose a heavy burden on teachers, as they strive to cover extensive syllabuses while fostering meaningful discussions. Bina illustrates the conflict between wanting to delve deep into literature and the reality of time-limited classes, making it a continual challenge. High Responsibility Teachers bear significant responsibility for their students’ learning outcomes. Bina notes that the pressure to ensure every student performs well can lead to stress, especially when parents expect high academic achievement. Old Syllabus An outdated curriculum can hinder effective teaching. Bina points out that certain materials may no longer resonate with students, stressing the need for syllabuses to evolve alongside societal changes and technological advancements. Mother Tongue Influence Indian students often struggle with English due to the influence of their mother tongues, complicating language acquisition. Bina addresses this challenge by encouraging students to practice speaking English regularly, which can help them gain fluency and confidence. Less Pay Scale Despite the intrinsic rewards, teaching is often not well-compensated. Bina acknowledges that lower pay compared to other professions can deter talented individuals from pursuing a career in education, making recruitment challenging. A Day Of Teaching English Bina’s day begins early, as she arrives at school by 7:30 AM, ready to engage with her students. Breakfast is an informal opportunity to teach table manners and foster connections. Classes commence at 8:20 AM, with a full schedule of seven periods. Throughout the day, she not only imparts English language skills but also participates actively in the lives of her students, understanding their unique needs and encouraging their involvement in extracurricular activities. The structure of a boarding school allows for additional time with students, providing opportunities to catch up with those who may need extra assistance. By maintaining an approachable demeanor and integrating lessons into every interaction, Bina effectively cultivates an enriching learning environment. Conclusion Teaching English is both a challenging and fulfilling career that requires dedication, adaptability, and a passion for education. As Bina’s experiences illustrate, effective teaching transcends mere instruction, encompassing mentorship, continuous learning, and emotional intelligence. Despite its hurdles, this path is rich with rewards, from witnessing student growth to bridging generations through communication. For those who are passionate about nurturing young minds and sharing the beauty of language, teaching English offers a unique and impactful journey.

Install the LifePage App to:

(for Free) Watch Teacher Bina Venkatesh’s full Teaching English Career Talk

₹ Do a Self Assessment on Teaching English to calculate your Dream Index, which is defined as:

According to Bina Venkatesh your chances of success in Teaching English is __%

Access your personalized Dream Index Report which will have all your Dream Indices sorted in descending order.

How to get into

Teaching English?

If you are want to get into Teaching English, start by investing in a Career Plan.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Teaching English is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Teaching English, what education and skills you need to succeed in Teaching English, and what positives and challenges you will face in Teaching English.

Finally, you will get a Career Plan stating which Courses, Certifications, Trainings and other Items you need to do in the next 7 years to become world’s best in Teaching English.

LifePage Career Plan

14 hour personalized guidance program

Your LifePage Career Advisor facilitates your guided introspection so that you systematically explore various Career options to arrive at a well thought out Career choice.

Next: your Advisor helps you figure out how you will get into your chosen Career and how will you develop the skills needed for success in your Chosen Career.

LifePage Plan will not stop at saying "to become an Architect study Architecture". It will guide you on which Certifications, Trainings and Other items you need to do along with your Architecture education to become the world's best Architect.

Links for this Talk

Teacher Bina Venkatesh's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/binavenkatesh

LifePage Career Talk on Teaching English

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/teaching-english-10

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20171227-0003

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dqum_R4cMFo

(Teaching English, Bina Venkatesh, Welham Boys, Teacher, Educationist, School Teaching, English Literature)

Similar Talks

Teaching English

Tanvi Dhingra
English Teacher | Welham Girls, Dehradun

[ 1 year & 2 months Experience ]

Teaching is all about enlightening minds by sparking a child’s curiosity and moving him or her to think. It’s a multifaceted profession which involves understanding of strengths and weaknesses of each individual and catering for their needs.

"I started teaching in July 2015 and this was my first job and experience in an all girls residential school. I teach English Language and Literature in ICSE and I teach with passion. "

Teaching Hindi

Mrs Sangeeta Rawat
PGT Hindi | Scholars Home, Dehradun

[ 18 years Experience ]

There are several languages spoken in this world, one of them being Hindi. It is one of the most spoken languages in this world. Hindi teaching for an Indian is a great pride and gives a sense of immense satisfaction. It includes the complete knowledge of the Hindi language, where one can read, write and speak it. While teachig Hindi, both Hindi Grammar and Hindi Literature are taught.

"I was born and brought up in Dehradun. This is where I did my schooling from Shri Guru Nanak Academy. I then did my M A and B Ed from Garhwal University. I have been teaching Hindi from 1999 to 2016. I taught Hindi in Asian School and Scholar's Home Senior Secondary School"

Teaching English

Estela Lopez
English Teacher | Oxford Institute

[ 41 years & 3 months Experience ]

Teaching English is a great challenge, because teaching, whatever the subject one has to teach students, is a permanent challenge. Even more so, English is doubly a challenge because you have to teach children not only to talk but to think in a different language. To teach English, and the cultures of the countries where it is spoken, is to open the minds of children, who perhaps through the language, realize the possibilities they have to know other ways of thinking, other ways of living. In short is to teach them that communication is not only in Spanish but there are other human groups, other human cultures, that have a different language and is good to learn them. And since English is a universal language, not one, but the universal language, the challenge becomes more exciting.

"I studied English because it seemed to me that it was a career that was going to have a lot of job opportunities, and I was not mistaken, and to take advantage of the year i lived with Americans when i went abroad with a student scholarship, which gave me a good level of English to begin with. I studied in the UNT, in the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters, and while studying English, that was what would allow me to live, I studied philosophy that was what I was passionate about. I graduated as a teacher in English and i got my degree in philosophy in 1974 and 1977 respectively. By paternal suggestion I decided to set up an English academy with which I was able to build my own company, still running today with branches in the south of my province. In addition to teaching English in my academy, i taught English in a private secondary institution and in the UNSTA. Also, along with English, i taught many other things like anthropology, epistemology, logic and psychology, but in fact most of my working hours were dedicated to English. I made several trips to the United States with students from my academy, seeking to have them inmerge in the language, which is necessary to speak it."

Teaching English

Sangeeta Sofat
HOD Commerce Department | Summer Valley School

[ 24 years & 4 months Experience ]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages. Teaching English can occur either within the state school system or more privately, at a language school or with a tutor.

"I have done B Com & M Com from DAV College. Post that I did a Diploma in System Management from NIIT. I got placed in a Computer Company by the name Microlipi as a Teacher. Realising my interest in teaching and reading, I decided to pursue MA in English followed by B Ed. I have been an English Teacher with Summer Valley School for 23 years."

Teaching English

Late Pramod Lal
Head, Dept of English | Education Department

[ 22 years & 8 months Experience ]

Education is something that teaches you how to live a better life. Therefore, teaching is a very important function, in fact we all are born teachers, like mothers, they are the first teachers a child has. Teaching is the sharing of knowledge which comes naturally to a person and it is an unending process that benefits both the teacher and the learner.

"I have been an English teacher for almost 39 years and I was one of the few lucky ones who could enter his profession of choice. I always said that I should be remembered as a teacher or else nothing at all. I observed my teachers and their methods of teaching right from my early childhood and in that way teaching became my passion and the profession of my choice."

Teaching French

Dr Shivika Dutt
Visiting Faculty | UPES

[ 11 years & 11 months Experience ]

French is a Romance language of the Indo-European family. It descended from the Vulgar Latin of the Roman Empire, as did all Romance languages. French has evolved from Gallo-Romance, the spoken Latin in Gaul, and more specifically in Northern Gaul.

"I have done my graduation in Textile, French & Psychology from University of Rajasthan. I also did Masters and Ph D in Clinical Psychology from University of Rajasthan. I started my own practice in 2011. I am a Visiting Faculty of French in University of Petroleum & Energy Studies."

Teaching Chinese

Anukriti
Teacher | Doon University

[ 1 year Experience ]

A teacher is a person who helps others to acquire knowledge, competences or values.

"I did my Schooling till 10th from Bal Bharti Public School, Kotdwara. I completed my 12th from Banasthali University, Rajasthan. I did my Graduation and Post Graduation in Chinese Study from Doon University. I have been working as a Chinese Teacher in Doon University since 2016."

Teaching English

Sunaina Sangal
Trained Graduate Teacher | Summer Valley School

[ 3 years Experience ]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages.

"After completing my Schooling from Welham Girls' School, I did my graduation from LSR in History, Political Science and English. I came back to Dehradun and did my B Ed from Patrician College of Education. I am an English and History Teacher at Summer Valley School."

English Language Training

Shuchi Kaushal
English Language Trainer | Various Assignments

[ 17 years Experience ]

English Language Teaching (ELT) is based on the idea that the goal of language acquisition is communicative competence. It adopts concepts, techniques and methods in classroom for recognizing and managing the communicative needs of the language learners.

"After doing my schooling from HMV Senior Secondary School Jalandhar, I did my BSc in Economics from Guru Nanak University and then did my MSc in Information technology from Punjab Technical University. Thereafter, I worked as a ABAP Developer for Daikin Air Conditioning India Pvt Ltd for four years. In 2002, I started my own institute by the name of The Learning Edge where we give training for IELTS, TOEFL, English speaking and personality enhancement. We are also providing training to students of class 9th and 10th for Science, Math, English and NTSE. I am also a health & wellness consultant and a content writer."

Teaching English

Dr Kirtima Upadhyay
Assistant Professor | SGRR Degree College

[ 21 years & 10 months Experience ]

Teaching English refers to teaching the English language and/or literature to students at school or college level. Teaching English can occur either within the state school, private educational institutions or at home, supervised by a personal English tutor.

"After my Bachelors and Masters in English and Psychology, I completed my Masters in Education from DWT College and Ph D from DAV College. Post that, I took up teaching as a career. I have been teaching for over 20 years and I am working as an Assistant Profession at SGRR Degree College, Dehradun."

Teaching English

Esha Shaunik
PGT | GD Goenka Public School

[ 35 years & 10 months Experience ]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages. It can occur either within the state school system or more privately, at a language school or with a tutor.

"While I was doing my MA English, I started teaching in Jalandhar. After that, I pursued M Ed in teaching and since 1980, I was teaching English in various schools and took up various administrative roles too. I have been teaching since 1983 and my last school was GD Goenka in 2016."

Teaching English

James Macnamara
Teacher | Japanese School, Delhi

[ 5 years Experience ]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages.

"After completing my Schooling from Wimbledon College, I did a course in English from Roehampton University. I have been Teaching English since 2013, and I am teaching English at a Japanese School, New Delhi."

Teaching English

Anuradha Bhatnagar
Trained Graduate Teacher | Greenway Modern School, Delhi

[ 15 years & 9 months Experience ]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages. It can occur either within the state school system or more privately, at a language school or with a tutor.

"After completing my education, I started teaching English as Trained Graduate Teacher and it has been almost 16 years for me teaching the language."