Teaching English

Bina Venkatesh | Teacher | Welham Boys School

What is Teaching English?

A Career in Teaching English is very intriguing. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find information about What Teaching English actually is. Most pages on the internet just talk about How to get into Teaching English. While anyone can have an opinion on what Teaching English entails; only a real professional can really explain it.

With 20 years of professional experience, Teacher Bina Venkatesh understands Teaching English. According to Teacher Bina Venkatesh, Teaching English is:

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

The Journey of a Teacher: Bina's Passion for English Education Bina, an experienced educator, has spent over two decades teaching English and social studies. Her journey reflects an unwavering commitment to education, despite the changes and challenges she faced as a naval spouse often on the move. In this article, we will delve into Bina’s insightful experiences in teaching English, the requirements for entering this profession, and the skills necessary for success. We will also explore the positives and challenges that come with teaching, alongside a typical day in the life of an English teacher. What Is Teaching English? Teaching English encompasses not only imparting language skills but also immersing students in the rich world of literature. It involves skillfully communicating ideas and ensuring that students grasp the nuances of both language and literature. Understanding grammatical rules is critical for effective expression, while literature invites students to explore emotions through poetry, stories, and essays. As Bina emphasizes, teaching strategies must evolve to make the learning experience engaging and relevant for students from diverse backgrounds. Education Vocabulary A robust vocabulary is the cornerstone of effective communication in English. Bina stresses the importance of continual reading and linguistic advancement to foster an expansive vocabulary. This depth allows teachers to explain concepts more clearly and helps students express themselves with confidence. Moreover, Bina encourages her students to read widely, enriching their language skills and understanding of different writing styles. Subject Knowledge Possessing deep subject knowledge is vital for an English teacher. Bina notes that a superficial understanding can lead to student disengagement, as curious learners will quickly identify gaps in knowledge. A teacher must be well-versed in both literary works and the context surrounding them to convey their significance effectively. Bina provides an example of teaching Shelley’s “Ode to the West Wind,” wherein understanding the poet’s background greatly enhances their students’ comprehension. Teaching Methodology Bina highlights the necessity of adaptable teaching methodologies to capture student interest. Moving beyond traditional lecture formats, she recommends incorporating discussions, debates, and technology, such as multimedia resources and interactive activities. By engaging students actively, teachers can stimulate interest in the subject matter, using creative strategies, such as role-play or speech writing, to reinforce learning. Latest Information Keeping abreast of the latest developments in literature and pedagogy is crucial for any educator. Bina emphasizes that teachers should leverage technology and contemporary literary works to remain relevant in today’s classrooms. This constant updating of knowledge helps educators refine their teaching strategies and connect more meaningfully with the students’ interests. Authors Familiarity with both historical and contemporary authors allows teachers to present diversified perspectives in literature. Bina argues that exposure to various writers aids in enriching students’ understanding and appreciation of diverse narratives. Engaging with contemporary literature is essential, as it can be more relatable for students, boosting their overall interest in the subject. Skills Pronunciation & Diction Effective communication hinges on clear pronunciation and diction, making these skills paramount for English teachers. Bina explains that overcoming regional accents and fostering a neutral accent allows for better comprehension among students. A teacher's clarity not only facilitates understanding but also serves as a model for students to emulate. Interpersonal Skills Interpersonal skills play a significant role in an educator's ability to connect with students and foster a positive learning environment. Bina highlights being approachable, which encourages students to seek guidance and share their thoughts, thereby strengthening their learning experience. Interpersonal skills also enhance collaboration with colleagues, fostering a supportive educational community. Communication Strong communication skills are fundamental to teaching. Bina advocates for the use of simple, direct language to ensure students comprehend instructions and lessons. Clear communication helps convey complex ideas and allows students to express their thoughts effectively, establishing a robust learning environment. Patience Teaching English, particularly in a diverse classroom, requires significant patience. According to Bina, educators must be understanding of individual student challenges and exhibit empathy, allowing for a more nurturing educational environment. This patience fosters trust and encourages students to engage more openly in their learning journey. Time Management Time management is essential, as teachers must complete their syllabus within predetermined timeframes. Bina explains that balancing the curriculum demands with individualized attention for students often necessitates adept planning, ensuring that all material is covered effectively, while allowing flexibility for additional support when needed. Observation Being observant allows teachers to identify students' needs and areas requiring intervention. Bina notes that a keen eye for body language and engagement levels is essential in understanding student challenges, enabling educators to provide timely assistance and encourage student success. Counselling Skills Teachers often assume the role of counselors, providing emotional support and personal guidance. Bina emphasizes that effective counseling requires an ability to listen, understand, and respond compassionately to students’ concerns, fostering a safe space for them to thrive academically and personally. Trust Building Establishing trust is vital for effective teaching. Bina insists on the importance of being approachable yet maintaining authority. When students feel secure and valued, they are more likely to participate actively in class discussions and seek guidance on their challenges. Positives Overcoming Generation Gap One significant advantage of teaching is the ability to bridge the generation gap. Bina explains that being present in students’ lives enables educators to understand their perspectives, styles, and trends, facilitating better communication between students and parents. This connection cultivates a mutual understanding that benefits students as they navigate their lives. Work Life Balance Teaching offers a unique balance of professional and personal life. With school holidays aligning with family breaks, Bina appreciates the ability to spend quality time with loved ones. This flexibility makes the profession appealing for those seeking to juggle commitments effectively. Constant Learning The teaching profession fosters continuous learning. As Bina observes, educators are often lifelong learners, constantly updating their knowledge in literature and pedagogy, which ensures personal growth and keeps them engaged with their work. This perpetual curiosity enriches both the teacher’s life and the students’ experiences. Respect & Recognition Teaching is perceived as a noble profession, garnering a great deal of respect. Bina finds joy in the affection her students show, from heartfelt greetings to expressions of gratitude. This bond cultivates not only a rewarding environment but also reinforces the importance of their role within society. Challenges Meeting Deadlines One prevalent challenge for teachers is the pressure of meeting deadlines. Bina acknowledges that while diversifying lessons and exploring interpretations is enriching, the obligation to complete the syllabus can be restrictive. Constantly balancing the depth of exploration with time constraints often proves frustrating for educators. High Responsibility Educators carry significant responsibility, as they are tasked with shaping young minds. Bina mentions the pressure of ensuring student performance often leads to heightened anxiety, with parents looking for high academic achievements. This pressure can detract from the joy of teaching and limit creativity in lesson planning. Old Syllabus Another significant concern Bina highlights is the reliance on outdated syllabi, which may not reflect contemporary realities. She calls for educational reforms that better align with modern societal needs, suggesting that curriculum updates should aim to make literature more relevant and accessible to today’s students. Mother Tongue Influence Bina notes the challenge posed by students’ mother tongues, which often interfere with their English proficiency. This interference can pose barriers to effective communication and comprehension. Teachers must work diligently to counter these challenges through supportive and targeted teaching approaches. Less Pay Scale The pay scale in teaching is a considerable deterrent for potential educators, particularly when compared to other professions. Bina points out the lack of financial incentive, which often relegates teaching to a career option for those with limited choices, further complicating efforts to attract passionate and qualified individuals into the field. A Day Of Teaching English A typical day for Bina begins early, preparing to welcome her students with enthusiasm. By establishing routines that start even at breakfast, she integrates informal lessons in language and etiquette, fostering an environment conducive to learning. After school assemblies and classroom sessions, she engages with students in a relaxed atmosphere, so children feel comfortable to learn and express themselves. In her role, the day does not end when classes are over. Bina highlights the unique setting of a boarding school, where she has the opportunity to provide additional support to students who may need it after regular class hours. This one-on-one engagement allows her to address individual learning gaps effectively, ensuring each student is on track and understanding the material. The interaction doesn’t stop at academia; partaking in games and activities fosters stronger bonds with her students. Bina sees this holistic approach as vital, creating well-rounded individuals who are intellectually engaged and emotionally supported. Through these enriching experiences, Bina embodies the essence of a dedicated English teacher, impacting young lives while nurturing her own passion for learning. In summary, Bina illustrates the rewarding yet challenging landscape of teaching English. Her experiences and insights reflect a profound commitment to student development in a profession that is both a privilege and a responsibility. Teaching, as shown through her story, transcends academics; it is about shaping futures while embracing the joys and challenges that come with being an educator.

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How to get into

Teaching English?

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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)

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