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First lesson - Adult absolute beginners

Posted by olemole · August 29, 2008 · 5 replies

Hi all!

I'm working with adult learners who have zero experience with the language (i.e. no false beginners). I was wondering what first lessons you've had good success with to set up the classroom environment and start everyone off on the right foot.

Thanks!
Rebecca

5 Replies

I have them learn to pronounce the sounds of English. The sounds that are different from their L1. This comes very handy later when comes the time to learn some vocabulary and helps to blend the accent.

I would start with the following:

1. Hello (greetings).
2. My name is...
3. I like...
4. I don't like...

Yes this is a bit unnatural, at least numbers three and four. But it gives you the chance to introduce a few common objects (fruit, sports, music, movies, etc.). You can drill each one, step by step. You can introduce some vocabulary. Then at the end, you can have students interview as many people as possible in five minutes (or more), which will help reuse and reinforce the target language.

Good luck.

Thanks for the ideas! Sounds good so far! I was wondering if you know any good specific activities that we could do?

hi there!! i am in the Dominican Republic, i am trying to give private lessons to adults and i found your introduction sheet very helpful!! please continue posting!!