To C2 or not C2? Evaluating the Value of C2 Proficiency for English Teachers
To C2 or not to C2 — That’s the question! If you are toying with the idea of taking the C2 Proficiency exam, this article may help you decide whether pursuing proficiency aligns with your professional goals. Without listening to Macmillan’s Podcast, my answer would be that it depends on how much you want to […]
Deep Work vs. Shallow Work in English: Why You’re Stuck at Intermediate (and How to Move Up)
For learners who are tired of “studying” without progressing If you’re perfectly happy with your English level (already), this article isn’t for you. But if you feel stuck — even though you’ve been studying — keep reading. In this article, you’ll see how using more deep work (and less shallow work) can help your English […]
“I’ve Finished My English Course… So Why Don’t I Feel Fluent?”
Talking to a prospective student the other day, he said, “I have just finished my English course. I should be considered an advanced English speaker; however, I do not feel that way. How come?” This made me pause and ruminate on my ideas. How can someone who has completed an advanced course still feel far […]
When You Bite Off More Than You Can Chew: My C2 Learning Journey
Have you ever started a course and felt you had bitten off more than you can chew? This feeling is common among many learners who may find themselves overwhelmed. It’s important to recognize when you’ve bitten off more than you can chew and how to manage that situation. When you bite off more than you […]
Being in Our Own Shells: How to Break Free From Language Learning Plateaus
Are you feeling stuck in your language learning journey? Discover how to break free from the comfort zone that has become your prison. In “Being in Our Own Shells,” we explore the hidden costs of staying comfortable and the mindset shifts necessary for growth. Learn the six essential steps to overcome language learning plateaus, from setting S.M.A.R.T. goals to building a supportive network. Embrace the challenges and transform not just your English skills, but your entire journey of personal growth. Step outside your shell and unlock your true potential!
Digital Dementia Sabotages Language Learning: Proven Fixes
Your smartphone is silently sabotaging your language fluency through digital dementia—and you might not even realize it’s happening. Last Monday night, I was teaching a student when he asked what I thought about technology. In hindsight, most people, including language learners, rarely consider the consequences of technology in their lives, I told him. Generally, the […]
Walking the Talk in Language Teaching: Why Teachers Must Learn Like Learners
Walking the talk is a challenge every teacher faces, especially when we step into the shoes of our students. As we guide them through their learning journeys, can we truly embody the principles we preach? This post invites you to reflect on your own experiences as a learner, the struggles of discipline over motivation, and the importance of self-awareness. Discover how reconnecting with your inner learner can transform your teaching approach, making you a more authentic and effective educator. Join us in exploring the vital connection between teaching and learning, and why it matters now more than ever.