Margaret (Marnie) Ketcham

I began teaching English at a multinational company almost 20 years ago, along with teaching German to American employees and doing cross cultural training.

Now I teach ESOL to mostly Hispanic students at a community college in a city north of Boston. My students range from low beginning to advanced learners. These classes are in person, but I have also taught remotely during the pandemic.

I use a functional communicative approach while also teaching the necessary grammar. My students thank me for being patient with them, even while I correct their pronunciation, spelling and grammar.

Reading and writing are also important elements in learning a language, although listening comprehension and speaking receive emphasis with lower level students.

Humor and being able to laugh at yourself are regular components of my classes. Laugh at your mistakes. That's one of the best ways to learn.