I try to understand my student's background, his/her goals and then determine her/his level of competency in English. A simple assessment can be a conversation or a short writing exercise. In the context of conversation, a lesson can focus on a particular topic around which we develop vocabulary and on practical situations to converse using those words to develop comprehension and proper pronunciation.

As I get to know students, I focus lessons on their interests, academic needs, and on daily experiences. For example, one lesson could be about sports or music; another lesson could focus on helping with an English writing assignment; another lesson could focus on going to the market to buy groceries. Above all, I try to make all lessons relevant to the specific needs and goals of the individual student.

All lessons are designed to be collaborative. We begin with what the student may already know about a specific topic and build a knowledge toward competency in a particular area. If the student has an interest in a particular sport, type of music or entertainer, then together we design a lesson around what the student already knows, what he or she wants to know or may need to know in order to express himself or herself effectively in English.

Specific daily activities such as grocery shoping are wonderful oppotunities to build vocabulary and practical conversation skils. Working with students on actual school assignments can be an effective way to develop academic vocabulary, grammar and writing skills that can help students improve their English skills.