A successful Christmas workshop spreads holiday cheer

Tuesday, 8th December 2015 (morning 9 -2 p.m.), students participated in a successful Christmas workshop organised by our school.

I honestly believe it was a huge success.

The event was carefully prepared. In a magic atmosphere, surrounded by the sounds of carols, candles and cookies students shared ideas and made some beautiful Christmas gifts.

The participants could choose from various stands, and prepared pancakes, made decorations, snowflakes, sang Christmas songs, write Christmas cards, baked biscuits and cookies and much more.

At my stand, we had a lot of fun, created some beautiful jewellery and Christmas decorations and simply enjoyed spreading the spirit of Christmas. 

English Language Olympics

On 30 November 2015 students of our school entered Language Olympics.

They gathered and tested minds in English language. It required patient work, logical ability, and willingness to think around corners.

Congratulations to all of the students who took part in!

Helping students to learn independently and gain presentation skills

I strive to tailor the lessons to my students’ needs. Technologies of the 21st century enable me to develop them into fun and motivating lessons. 

Students turn to their mobile for information rather than referring to books. During the lessons they are encouraged to do research online, discover more about the given subject.They  work in groups or work independently.

The outcomes are presented in front of the class. Helping students to develop their communication and presentation skills and becoming an effective learner and communicator.

 Students from C1/G1 presenting their ideas on sports and leisure time activities.

New applications in language learning

You are an eternal beginner not just in English… in languages. Still struggling and want to pick up some new language skills but learning a language requires huge investments in both time and money...

On the other hand, you are e-learning and learning platform enthusiast, tablet and smartphone chomping maniac. Then new apps for learning languages are just the things for YOU!

However, these days it is not easy to choose from numerous apps for learning languages.

While taking up learning it is essential to set a goal and go for it. The app can be used every day wherever you are, commuting to school, work on regular basis. It saves time.

You can practice all language skills and apply what you have learnt. You can take on interactive learning exercises and quizzes and stay motivated with regular feedback... 

The best ones do not cost you an arm and leg. They are free. 

My favourite is Duolingo. Worth trying it ...https://www.duolingo.com/.

High Schools Day at EDUCAnet Praha

On 20 October in cooperation with Alfa Agency, students met Barry Bunyan, director of the International Program in Langley, in British Columbia, Canada. 
He introduced the district and the opportunities of studying in 8 High Schools in British Columbia.

The best part of the meeting was the emotional speech of Julie, a girl who has studied in Canada, based on her life-changing experience.

And of course, the raffle and the prizes were surprising. Some of the students have already started thinking about studying abroad in the future...

Jane from Alfa Agency and her guests

Barry Bunyan and his convincing speech

Open to new opportunities

Let´s get on the BUS...

Trips to countries which languages we desire to master

You have probably heard several times that the best way to learn a foreign language is to live where that language is spoken. Not everybody can afford that and not everybody can make it.

We all share a common passion of travelling. So, why do not take at least a trip to countries which languages are taught at our school?

This academic year the Department of Foreign Languages are pre-planning trips to different cities and countries.

Planning is important as school tours abroad can be a potential mine field with many things that can go wrong. Prevent the worst is good to have extensive knowledge of the location to which you are visiting.

Britain offers diverse cultures and beautiful landscapes. Personally, I have lived with my family in southern England that´s why it was an easy choice to find a place worth visiting in England.

The destination for an excursion and language tour would be the historical town of Hastings and its surroundings in southern England.

Moreover, we are planning trips to London, Berlin and New York. The value of visiting a foreign country is endless.

Being in a foreign country forces you to learn what is necessary to survive the ability to understand everyday language and enough speaking skills to communicate, to order pizza, etc.

It's a great way to practise speaking a language.

I hope everything will go the way it should and we assimilate many new experiences on the trips.

Starting off on the right foot

On the very first day of school what comes in students’ minds is, “Who you are? How old are you?”

I reckon many teachers probably introduce themselves at the beginning, but not me.

Personally, first I like to write a question mark on the board, and let them ask the very first questions. Students are naturally curious and really good at asking personal questions. 

One of the most obvious questions is “Why are you here?”

When asked for a very first time I was a bit surprised. Not these days.  I am well prepared… a few words from the heart are in order.

However, being flexible, patient and keeping your sense of humour come useful.

Students sometimes show surprise when you confide to them that you get great pleasure from teaching them.

From the first day forward, I help students decide whether school is drudgery or a serious effort that can be both rewarding and enjoyable. I try to adopt an optimistic, can-do attitude that will be reflected in my students. 

Building a partnership with each student from the beginning of the school year is very important for me as well.  Some social "setting in" is needed.

On the other hand, I am realistic. I won´t win the battle with every student.  

I am of the persuasion that starting off on the right foot can make all the difference.