elt – Page 5 – Katherine Reilly

August 21, 2023

The Transversal Competency No One Is Talking About

Do We Actually Foster Intrapersonal Skills?

The application of new approaches with the goal of improving one’s services and quality of work is a common practice observed in any professional sphere. English Language Teaching is no exception. If we were to count the innovations rendered in our field, one would be baffled by the plethora of techniques available. It is therefore logical for an educator to miss out on practices that would facilitate the delivery of a lesson in a more efficient manner. Transversal competencies have been deemed a requisite in all educational structures including that of our respected discipline. Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, creativity, are but a few of the desired skills employers deem necessary in today’s competitive workforce. However, one element which is overshadowed most often than not, is that of Intrapersonal development.

Text by: Katherine Reilly, originally published by ELT NEWS

July 16, 2023

Plenary Speaker, Foreign Languages Forum Athens

When teaching a class, one must bear in mind a plethora of elements associated with cultural and social diversity. The special educational needs and abilities of each individual student must also be taken into account. Modern textbooks cater to a general audience and must be adapted accordingly to provide an inclusive lesson which can be accessible to all. Special thanks to the Foreign Languages Forum for organizing this prestigious event at the Royal Olympic Hotel. Registration is free and the attendees will receive a special gift I will be offering at the end of the presentation. Looking forward to seeing you all. Happy summer!

April 26, 2023

My Teenage Students Are Ignoring Me! What Am I Doing Wrong?

by Katherine Reilly, originally published in ELT NEWS

A Heart to Heart about an Educator’s Role Today

“Doesn’t anyone know the answer to my question?” you gently sigh, as half your class simply ignores your presence. You desperately direct the question to a specific student – a last attempt at rectifying the uncomfortable predicament you find yourself in – receiving an answer which will only add salt to injury. “I don’t care if I learn English or not. So, stop insisting.”

Does this sound all too familiar? No, this is not an 80s teen movie, featuring disgruntled, directionless teenagers who are in desperate need of a leader who will motivate them and, in the end, will bond as a family unit. This is a harsh reality most of us are dealing with. You might be scratching your heads wondering if this was always the case or not. Admittedly, teenagers have through the years consistently exhibited a rebellious nature, rendering it a constant challenge to keep them motivated and focused on their obligations, inspiring them to set goals to pursue in life. However, society has fundamentally changed and although our teenage students do remind us of our own adolescent years, there are many acute differences which have led to their dismissal behavior.