Context for learning and teaching English

Teaching English isn’t just about delivering lessons—it’s about understanding the unique context in which learning takes place. This includes the learners themselves, the physical or online environment, and the resources available. It also means being aware of the diverse needs of students, including those with learning difficulties or disabilities. In this lesson, we’ll explore how to adapt your teaching to fit these contexts and meet the needs of all your learners.

The context of teaching: Learners,
environment, and resources

Every teaching situation is different, and understanding the context is key to planning effective lessons. Let’s break this down into three areas:

The learners:

Who are they?: Are they professionals, university students, immigrants, or retirees? Their backgrounds and goals will shape how you teach. For example, teaching business English to executives is very different from teaching conversational English to retirees.
Class size: A one-on-one lesson allows for personalized attention, while a large class might require more group activities to keep everyone engaged.
Language level: Beginners need more visual aids and repetition, while advanced learners can handle complex tasks and discussions.

The environment:

Physical classroom: Is it well-equipped with a whiteboard, projector, and comfortable seating? Or is it a small, cramped room with limited resources?
Online learning: Teaching online requires different skills, such as using digital tools like Zoom or Google Classroom and keeping students engaged through a screen.
Cultural setting: In some countries, students might be used to formal, teacher-centered lessons, while in others, they might expect a more interactive, student-centered approach.

Resources:

Materials: Do you have access to textbooks, workbooks, and online resources? Or do you need to create your own materials?
Technology: Are there computers, projectors, or internet access? In low-resource settings, you might need to rely on printed handouts or simple tools like flashcards.

A real-world example:
Imagine teaching English in a rural school in India with limited electricity and no internet. You might use flashcards, songs, and group activities to engage students, while in a well-equipped language school in Japan, you could incorporate videos, online quizzes, and interactive whiteboards.

Understanding the range of learning needs

Every class includes a mix of learners with different abilities, strengths, and challenges. Some students may have learning difficulties or disabilities, and it’s important to adapt your teaching to support them. Here’s how:

Learning difficulties:

Dyslexia: Students with dyslexia might struggle with reading and spelling. Use multisensory techniques, such as combining visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities. For example, use colored overlays for reading or let them trace words with their fingers.
ADHD: Students with ADHD might find it hard to focus for long periods. Break lessons into shorter segments and include plenty of movement-based activities.

Physical disabilities:

Hearing impairments: Use visual aids, written instructions, and seating arrangements that allow students to see your face clearly for lip-reading.
Mobility issues: Ensure the classroom is accessible and provide alternatives for activities that require movement.

Cultural and emotional needs:

Refugees or immigrants: These students might have experienced trauma or stress. Create a safe, supportive environment and be patient as they adjust.
Shy or anxious learners: Encourage participation without pressure. Pair them with supportive classmates or let them contribute in smaller groups.

A real-world example:
In a class with a student who has dyslexia, you might provide handouts with larger fonts and plenty of visuals. For a student with ADHD, you could include frequent breaks and interactive activities like role-plays or games.

Adapting teaching to context and learners’ needs

Once you understand the context and the needs of your learners, you can adapt your teaching to create an inclusive and effective learning environment. Here’s how:

Plan flexibly: Be ready to adjust your lesson plans based on the resources available and the needs of your students. For example, if the internet goes down during an online class, have a backup plan like a printable worksheet or a discussion topic.
Use universal design for learning (UDL): This approach involves creating lessons that work for all learners, regardless of their abilities. For instance, provide both written and spoken instructions, and offer multiple ways for students to demonstrate their understanding (e.g., through writing, speaking, or drawing).
Be inclusive: Ensure that all students feel valued and supported. For example, if you have a student with a hearing impairment, make sure they can see your face when you speak and provide written summaries of key points.
Leverage local resources: Use materials and examples that are relevant to your students’ lives. For instance, if you’re teaching in a farming community, use vocabulary related to agriculture.

A real-world example:
In a mixed-ability class, you might provide differentiated tasks. For example, during a reading activity, give simpler texts to beginners and more challenging ones to advanced learners. For students with learning difficulties, you could offer additional support, such as a glossary of key terms or a buddy system.

Final thoughts

Teaching English is about more than just language—it’s about understanding the context in which you’re teaching and the unique needs of your learners. By being flexible, inclusive, and resourceful, you can create lessons that work for everyone, no matter their background or abilities.

So, the next time you step into a classroom (or log into an online session), take a moment to consider the context and the needs of your students. With a little creativity and empathy, you can make a big difference in their learning journey.

To your CELTA journal

What challenges have you faced in adapting to different teaching contexts?
Reflect on the challenges you have faced in adapting to different teaching contexts. Write in your CELTA journal about your experiences, focusing on how you adjusted your teaching methods to suit different environments and learner needs. Share specific examples of the challenges you encountered and the strategies you used to overcome them.

Next lesson: Varieties of English
Previous lesson: Learning and teaching preferences