Information About Michelle - Downham Market teacher

Personal Description:

I am a passionate and dedicated Italian/English language tutor who lived and taught English in Torino ,Turin for over 30 years. I speak Italian fluently and I am the proud mother of 2 sons who are bilingual in English and Italian. I presently live Norfolk here in the UK, have qualified as a CELTA teacher and teach 'la bella lingua mia' 'my beautiful Italian language.'

Teaching Experience:

I have taught all my life both in Italy and the UK . I have many years of experience in teaching both English and Italian. I have taught in many different learning environments: nurseries, schools, colleges, offices and have taught levels from complete beginners to advanced and a vast range of ages. I became an Italian GCSE speaking examiner in 2017. My experience of teaching both languages expands over a range of learning needs: supporting confidence, developing independence, assisting with assessments and exam preparation. I thrive on learners reaching their personal goals and will always do my best to enrich their experience with creativity and active learning.

Teaching Approach:

My approach to language teaching and learning is very: positive, friendly and fun. I love teaching and this shows through my approach and attitude.{If I were the learner HOW would I like to learn?] I focus on a warm, safe, welcoming learning environment which encourages a sense of feeling relaxed and happy. It takes the pressure off of the learner, who is able to adapt and feel at ease in their approach to language learning, encouraging them to focus, grow in confidence and feel good about what they are doing . My lessons are engaging and active. They include lots of roleplay, games, reading exercises and feedback, questioning, answering forms , writing, always be ready! listening and speaking . I speak Italian/English as soon as I can and greatly encourage learners to do the same. Homework and revision are always given and lesson recall is done at the start of each lesson.
Language learning is a very personal experience, it enriches your life and gives opportunities which you only imagined, so it is key to get it right from the start so I take time to understand the learners' reasons for language learning choice allowing me to tailor to specific needs and help in achieving success in their goals.