Language Skills: A Big New Step

I can't say too much about my previous experience in the ESLTCP program because this is my first one! I'm taking three courses concurrently. But I can talk about my general experience in teaching English as an additional language.

I took the equivalent to course #2 in my education degree and found it very interesting. The best lessons were those that engaged students, taught practical and meaningful skills and incorporated everyday activities and situations.

Recently, I volunteered at the University of Manitoba's Intensive English for Academic Purposes Program and found it very eye-opening. It looked to me a balanced place to work; one where I could make a difference in the lives of students but they weren't so needy that their personal lives regularly interfered with the teaching and learning.

As a substitute teacher, I also work with children that have newly immigrated to Manitoba. I hope to be able to empathize with learning and a new language and culture.

I enjoyed Oura's article on task-based, authentic learning because this method allows for a connection between the classroom and the real world, the students' prior knowledge and what they eventually need to know. It gives meaning and relevancy to studying and practicing language.