Educational Blog
A huge thank you to all who attended! Below you will find attached the seminar handout, powerpoint presentation, and certificate for your conveniece. Happy school year to all!
Continue reading “Materials for Seminar – Engaging Minds: ELT Approaches for Young Learners”
by Katherine Reilly, originally published in ELT NEWS printed magazine
After more than two decades of teaching grammar, I can assuredly attest to the notion that language teaching has become the embodiment of God’s sense of humor. Bold claims to be held, albeit with concrete justification. I cannot begin to comprehend the turmoil and frustration faced by a language learner when interpreting Greek idioms which baffle them beyond explanation. “Slow the much oil” or “You’ll eat wood” are but a few examples to consider. Of course, this works both ways as learners of English would be scratching their heads when hearing the expression “Bite the bullet” or “I’ll spill the beans”. I can only imagine how upset a host would be upon hearing his guest say the latter, fretting for his clean, shiny floor. Admittedly, I have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and preserving a spotless kitchen floor is a constant painstaking endeavor.
Continue reading “Grammar Woes and Laughs: How to Thrive Amidst Linguistic Lunacy”
by Katherine Reilly – originally published by ELT NEWS
It’s 6.00 am and I find myself twirling in bed; my sheets wrapped around my body tighter than a tortilla. Although I hit the hay early, I feel as though I hadn’t slept a wink. Sluggishly, I get out of bed and commence preparations for the long day ahead. My teacher’s bag is equipped with all the basic necessities for teaching juveniles. No, I’m not referring to markers or books; rather tissues, adhesive bandages, cleansing gels, you know… the works! A bit of makeup, some finishing touches to my hair and off I go!
Upon arrival at the school premises, I take a moment to reflect upon last year’s predicaments before exiting my car. It doesn’t take a prophet to tell me this year will be no different than the ones before. I unlock my door and before I even have the chance to exit, I am greeted by familiar faces that have physically matured over the summer months. Some are most welcome as they wholeheartedly embrace me. Others strike a sense of dread for what is to come. The pranksters and smart-alecks, or the socially obnoxious and loud.
“Good morning, Ms. Katherine!” yelled one of my students directly into my ear drum.
“Good morning, Johnathon. I haven’t had coffee yet,” I reply, carrying a year’s worth of textbooks in my arms.
“You’ll need it!” shouted my student as he and his classmates trampled away giggling.
Continue reading “Teacher, I Soaked My New Textbook!”
Katherine Reilly 