As an English instructor in my second decade of teaching, I have a strong understanding of teaching methodologies that work well for my students. Although I am fluent in both English and Mandarin, I believe that having an English-only classroom environment is key to students' learning, and therefore I use only English in my lessons. This type of environment, I believe, helps students improve their English level more effectively.

 

In my classroom, I use humor at times to motivate my students, but at the same time, I am strict with them where necessary. Having this balance is essential, especially in classes where all students have different personalities and needs, meaning different styles are sometimes required to motivate each pupil to ensure his or her success. In addition, I employ different types of in-class activities depending on the students and classes; for example, some classes are focused on in-class reading to time the students' speed and offer them more effective strategies for reading (based on my observations of the way they are reading) while other lessons might have a focus on in-class writing as a review to practice the skills that have already been taught. Essentially, my classes are flexible in the sense that what goes into each lesson is carefully considered and planned out.

 

A graduate from University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, Canada, I have taught ESL/ELL classes along with test preparation courses such as IELTS and SSAT. Students who are keen on learning have often told me that they can see my passion in the classes that I teach, and it is rewarding for me to be able to inspire them to academic success.

 

Finally, I consider myself a role model and inspiration to my students because of my experience as an author/writer and in broadcasting; students who follow my advice and practice the skills that I teach will enjoy success in their own academic and future lives.