From the first day of class, I prioritize building a sense of trust and community in the classroom. It is important that students feel comfortable taking risks and making mistakes as they are learning a language. It is also important that students know they belong and are valued members of the classroom community.
My approach to language teaching is inspired by Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) methods. I believe that significant language learning happens through real, authentic, and meaningful interactions and experiences. I use a variety of activities such as dialogues, information gaps, and games to facilitate active learning and keep things fun. I am energetic, enthusiastic, and passionate about teaching, learning, and all things Swedish. I encourage students to be active agents of their learning.
I recognize and appreciate the diversity of learners that exists in every classroom. In order to create an inclusive learning environment, I turn to Universal Design for Learning guidelines. I diversify how I present material. I use scaffolding techniques to combine the introduction of new learning with students’ prior knowledge. I work to make lessons uniquely changing and adequately challenging, according to students’ needs and learning objectives. I constantly evaluate and assess student learning, informally and formally, in order to adapt my teaching. Above all, I maintain positive expectations for all students. Students in my classroom are fully aware of my passion for teaching, as well as my enthusiasm for their success.
