Meet Skype Spoken English Teacher Libby
What is your teaching philosophy when it comes to Skype Spoken English lessons?
My teaching philosophy when it comes to Skype Spoken English students is to work with each student on an individual level according their needs, focusing always on the importance of conversation. Every student is different, and has different reasons for learning English, and my goal is help them accomplish that. Through conversation, and the integration of resources such as TED Talks, articles, and other forms of media, students can get a well-rounded understanding of the English language.
Tell us more about your formal education and interactions with non-native English speakers?
I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology in 2013, and have spent the past three years living in Guatemala. Living in Guatemala allows me to interact with non-native English speakers on a daily basis. In addition, I have spent two and half years teaching English in a classroom setting to both children and adults. This has allowed me to learn the ins and outs of teaching English, and the struggles one often faces in learning another language.
How would you describe a typical Skype Spoken English lesson at Spoken English Practice?
In a typical Skype Spoken English lesson, I try to give the student as many opportunities to speak as possible. I like to have the student speaking at least 60-70% of the time. I usually note errors the students make during the lesson, and then go over them with the student before we change topics or at the end of the lesson in order to avoid interrupting them while they are speaking.
What are your favorite conversation topics?
I’m interested in a wide variety of topics! I love learning about other cultures and what a “day in the life” is like for people from other parts of the world. I love talking about food, music, books, politics, religion, agriculture, current events, and much more!
In your experience, what area in English do students need the most help? Grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation or something else? How would you address this in your classes?
In my experience, students struggle most with grammar and pronunciation. English is a difficult language, with exceptions to every rule! The best way to learn is by speaking English, making mistakes, and learning from them. With both grammar and pronunciation, I would listen for mistakes made and gently correct students to help them avoid making the same mistake in the future. If students need help understanding a grammar principal, I will also explain it to them and provide and elicit examples until it is clear they understand.
What are your top 3 tips for someone who wants to be fluent in English fast?
My top three tips for someone who wants to be fluent in English fast are practice, practice, and practice! Using English is the best way to become fluent in it, whether it is through Skype Spoken English classes or an English Speaking club. In addition to speaking it, I also suggest listening to music or watching movies in English, this will greatly improve your understanding and listening skills. A third tip is to read in English. This will improve your vocabulary, which you can later integrate into conversation!
Tell us some fun things about you? Where you like to travel, any other languages you speak, favorite cuisine etc.
I’m originally from Michigan in the United States, but am now living in Guatemala. I love exploring this country and getting to know the local culture. Since moving here, I have learned to speak Spanish, so I definitely understand the difficulty in learning a second language! I love hiking and being out in nature, but I also love being cozied up at home cooking a delicious dinner or reading a good book. I also enjoy going out with friends and trying different foods from all over the world!
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