CUP Professional Development expert Carley Spence has published this useful article.
Every student who sets out on a journey to learn English as a second language will face a series of challenges. Some will be common to other language learners, others will be more personal in nature. The question is, what are some of the most common language learning challenges? And, how can you help your students overcome them?
As teachers, it can be hard to get students to commit to learning English for the long-haul. However, once you recognise the challenges language learners face, it makes it easier to prepare and guide them through the rocky terrain.
Let’s take a closer look at those learning challenges and what you can do to help:
Challenge # 1: The beginner’s fear of speaking
When student’s first embark on their language learning journey, every day’s a school day. They’re excited to be there, finally living their dream. They’re bright-eyed and bushy tailed, full of eagerness to learn. But, very quickly, the enthusiasm can waiver. And before they know it, it’s replaced by shyness and fear.