Nuts and Bolts in Language Learning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Nuts and Bolts in Language Learning - Essay Example From this discussion it is clear that the important part of teaching is students’ receptivity. Are all the students attentive to what is being taught? It is not possible to keep all the students engaged all the time. Nonetheless, if the content of the delivery or discussion generates curiosity, it is bound to keep the students riveted to the oration.As the study highlights  any experienced teacher of the English as a Second Language (ESL) will understand the importance of techniques, models or materials s/he has acquired in her/his arsenal by training, peer discussions, or personal observation. These are prized possessions and the reward for helping students successfully overcome the hazards in language learning.  Teaching of second language is altogether a different genre. One can teach the first language, science, mathematics, and social sciences since these basically involve concepts, illustrations and practical exercises, the common denominator being that the teacher a nd student share a common legacy of a known language. However, teaching second language requires different mettle where the teacher carries heavy responsibility in addressing not only a language but tradition and culture. For instance, an innocent word in one language may mean something grand or awful in the second language.  Textbooks, workbooks, and other study material are needed in ESL. Along with these, a dash of creativity goes a long way to make the students feel comfortable and capable of learning the language. Use of popular songs like Jack and Jill went up the hill, Twinkle twinkle little star, There is a hold in the bucket, dear Lisa, etc. is one effective way for ESL students to pick English words rapidly through rote actions. Ideally, to begin use a few four line rhymes to break the ice and set the ball rolling. Art and craft is another effective method of creatively teaching ESL. Interact with the students to select some 10-15 English proverbs and have each student write one of these artistically on thick paper sheets of different colors which could be pinned on notice boards or other prominent places as eye-catching posters. This technique could be gradually upgraded to picture reading where students are given pictures of gardens, small bridges serving as walk over between streamlets, etc. and encouraged to describe the scenery in say, 100 words. Teachers and study materials must