When I've taught English, I've used a mix of professional language and terminology and casual, familiar phrasing to ensure that young students can understand concepts. For extremely young students, I use my knowledge of phonics to ensure they can sound out words easily, and if we have other languages in common, I also will speak in those to establish a bond with that student. With older students,...
When I've taught English, I've used a mix of professional language and terminology and casual, familiar phrasing to ensure that young students can understand concepts. For extremely young students, I use my knowledge of phonics to ensure they can sound out words easily, and if we have other languages in common, I also will speak in those to establish a bond with that student. With older students, I try to connect curricula to their interests, and treat them as the young adults they are. This enables them to feel capable in their abilities to advance academically, rather than being seen as children. With students with SEN, I make sure I understand exactly what their needs are -- whether they are mental, emotional, verbal, or anything else. I have done thorough research on different SEN to help me teach these students, and will complete any specialized research necessary to help if a student needs it! I have taught students with autism, dyslexia, and various conditions, as well as students who were learning English as a second or even third language. With new English learners, I make sure to create good foundational bases, and ensure that I don't overlook things that seem obvious to native speakers. I also try to learn rudimentary concepts in their native languages if I don't already speak them, in order to connect and help them more. My teaching is always empathy-focused, because students can't learn if they don't feel confident in themselves. Learning languages is complex, but with the right attention and care, a great tutor can make all the difference.