Lenka Mikesova

I prefer to use the CLT teaching method (Communicative Language Teaching) which focuses on interaction and communication. Grammar, listening, and writing are an important part of learning a language, however, I believe that having great communication skills is where it all starts. Everything else can be taught but conversation needs to be experienced. I like to use authentic material and real-life objects in my lessons as these tend to be more familiar to students. For example, learning vocabulary from a favourite TV show is definitely more enjoyable than from a textbook. Similarily, listening excercises are more fun when you are listening to a popular song.
Despite this, I believe that balance needs to be achieved, and the occassional inclusion of certain textbook activities will prepare my students for both grammar-focused exams and real-life experiences.

I am a farily begginning teacher as I have just graduated but my academic achievements and lessons I taught as a part of my UK university programme speak for themselves. I built a great rapport with my students, made them feel relaxed and most of all, included. As a student from international environment and someone who travells a lot, I understand how important inclusion is and I have developed high intercultural competence. Same experience also allowed me to gain a deeper insight into numerous Enlgish accents and language variation, including their cultural background. All this can be observed in my lessons because I believe in authenticity and importance of acknowledging these varieties as the real world is made primarily of them.