Advice for Teaching

• Preparation
  Preparation is important in maintaining a good learning environment. You should be prepared with syllabi and lesson plans and have certain goals set in mind for the course. This is especially important because most students wish to adhere to the course syllabus. “Make sure that the students know what they will achieve by the end of the class and what they will learn and do in the class/course you teach.”  (FLTA 2007)  "Students pay a lot for each of your lessons. So you have to prepare your lessons thoroughly and make sure your materials are of good quality." (FLTA 2008) When you begin to teach at your university be open-minded about new teaching methodolgies you may encounter.  Do not hesitate to be creative in class activities and be prepared to work beyond the assistantship requirements in making the target language interesting and attractive to the students. (FLTA 2008) Also, become familiar with the grading and record-keeping system at your institution. You will discover that grades are very important to some students. "Keep records of everything you do with your students. One of my students appealed a grade to the university but it wasn't difficult for me to prove my grading was correct because I had a copy of everything in my files." (FLTA 2008) In getting to know the students you will find that American students can be competitive, creative, active, and critical, all of which can be taken into consideration when teaching.
   
• Teaching Materials
  Bring authentic teaching materials. This especially applies to those who will be teaching an African language. A 2008 FLTA found that items such as traditional costumes, pictures of her hometown, public transportation, typical cafes, and shopping malls were especially interesting to American students. Include visual aids or videos.
   
• Promote Your Culture
  Be proud of your culture/country and do not hesitate to share your experiences with your students.
   
• In-Class Experience
  Keep the in-class experience fun and easy-going. Don't expect students to know any grammar terms or structures before you introduce them in class. Mind the fact that American students are outspoken; they aren't shy about asking questions.     

• ASK!
  Do not hesitate to ask about anything that you might not understand. Asking is also important during the FLTA orientation. Your supervisor, colleagues, classmates, and former FLTA's may be able to help you clarify any doubts.