Teacher or entertainer or teacher AND entertainer?

Postbox letter from Wes R

"We're not teachers, we're entertainers!" That's a dangerous little meme and it's something I've read countless times on countless websites as it concerns teaching English in another country, especially Thailand.

Choosing the right employer

The joys of working for a teacher agency

I wouldn't say I have a "horror story" per se, but rather a three-ringed circus. I found the whole ordeal quite amusing for the most part, although the never getting paid on time or the correct amount, along with the constant harassing emails from whom I can only assume to be a mentally imbalanced employer did get a bit tiresome by the end.

Beyond speaking day

Activities to get your students talking

My school director asked me to organise an English Speaking Day in our school. When I implemented the idea, my director was overwhelmed by its impact on students' interest and English language development.

Don't get lost in your role

Postbox letter from Brian

Those who are in Asia teaching English need to understand this simple reality: English teaching is a superficial industry. English language aptitude is simply social and economic capital in Asia. Is this not stating the obvious?

Laugh and be happy

Postbox letter from DJ

Try to apply the advice offered to you by experienced staff. Try to empathize with the different groups of students rather than to each individual student.

Take heart, the schools are out there

Postbox letter from Michael

Unfortunately, the schools with the most vacancies are the schools that have some problems with student (and sometimes teacher) motivation and discipline)

At the end of my tether

Postbox letter from Steven

The problem I encounter with almost every class, is a lack of respect, plus attention, demonstrated by the students

Teacher dress codes

Postbox letter from Sarah

Don't waste your money buying pants. Maybe the school you work at will not be as strict with this policy, but unless you have overwhelming feelings about this topic, buy skirts and dresses to be on the safe side.

A teacher's pet peeve

The unenviable task of having to plan lessons

Lesson planning is a routine task that has now got into my system, yet if I had my choice, I would get rid of it. But how? So several times I tried teaching without a lesson plan? Do you want to know how it turned out? I think they were better than my planned lessons.