eltnews – Page 8 – Katherine Reilly

June 5, 2022June 5, 2022

Don’t Panic! It’s Just an Exam!

By Katherine Reilly, Author, Teacher Trainer

Originally Published in ELT NEWS Magazine.

Is it that time of the year again? My, oh, my, how time flies! After months and in many cases years of preparation, it all comes down to that final exam which will reward the test taker for all his hard efforts. It would be futile to debate the effectiveness of tests or question what the best way to assess a student’s skills or knowledge is. Tests are here to stay and whether we like it or not, we have to comply with this designated method of evaluation. Το make matters worse, students are more often than not hindered by the prospect of evaluation. Negative emotions of anticipation and frustration overwhelm them, rendering an inability to exhibit their true potential. As educators, the responsibility falls upon us once again to lighten the burden of anxiety and alleviate their suffering during those last few moments before their exams. Here are five essential approaches to test taking that you can share with them.

June 4, 2022

Good Grief! Yet Another Article on Grammar & Vocabulary?

By Katherine Reilly, Author, Teacher Trainer

Originally Published in ELT NEWS Magazine.

Grammar and Vocabulary are deemed by many as the cornerstones of language learning. Although this claim does have merit, as these two elements will establish a sound foundation to build upon, both educators and students alike must also acknowledge the fact that there is a broader picture to examine. What about productive skills like writing or speaking? Not to mention receptive ones such as reading and listening? Focusing exclusively on enhancing specific facets will prove detrimental in the long run – not to mention boring. If a balance is struck between all aspects of a language, then the result will most certainly reward the learner, bringing him one step closer to achieving his goal. To this end, grammar and vocabulary must be implemented in such a way, as to inspire the learner and stimulate his approach in a constructive manner; one which will enable him to master the language more effectively.

January 17, 2022June 5, 2022

Foreign Languages and Pre-Primary Students. Are We Overdoing It?

By Katherine Reilly, Author, Teacher Trainer

Originally Published in ELT NEWS Magazine.

It comes as no surprise that the demands of our ever-developing society would at some point leave its mark on the generations which will succeed us. The necessity to harness a young individual’s true potential with the purpose of integrating it into the global machine has already taken its effect, as schools constantly update and enrich their syllabuses. ELT is no exception as the proposed age to expose a child to a foreign language has drastically diminished. One though would wonder, if this approach is not only sound but also feasible, leading educators and parents alike to ponder whether a child will be able – or willing – to live up to these new standards.