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• Speaks the target language to the students at all times, even outside the
classroom. Builds up a friendly relationship in English with each student. If a
native speaker, never practices Portuguese with students; makes other friends for
that. (Occasionally might allow himself/herself to be in the role of learner trying
to perform some Portuguese difficulties, only with the purpose of raising the
student's self-esteem.)
• Pretends not to understand very well the students' native language. Whenever
the student derails into Portuguese, the teacher rephrases the ideas in English to
bring them back on track.
• Maintains good student participation and makes sure each student gets an equal
share of participation and attention.
• Hardly ever translates: explains in simple English and illustrates with examples.
Is creative in using synonymous forms or different language.
• Does not introduce grammar topics. Creates the necessary grammar explanation
to elucidate specific difficulties at the moment they occur.
• Gears the lesson to the ability, level and interests of the student.
• Is goal oriented, especially with beginners. For example, the syllabus for one
semester with fast learning students could be:
o Step 1 - Be & Do Phrases (affirmative, interrogative and negative) - 1½ month
o Step 2 - Present Continuous - 1 week
o Step 3 - Personal Pronoun Forms - 1 week
o Step 4 - There to be - 1 week
o Step 5 - Past Tense - 1 month
o Step 6 - Future Tense - 3 weeks
• When the student speaks, concentrates on both the meaning and on the linguistic
forms at the same time.
• Is very patient, may correct the same mistake from the same student over 50
times, but always as if it were the first time. Demonstrates great empathy and
maintains a positive attitude.
• Makes sure that the student has the necessary materials (tapes, books, etc.) and
knows how to use them.
• Has seen and enjoyed the movie "The Dead Poets Society".