Interesting Spanish Speaking Countries

Should Students Be Allowed to Use Their Native Language in the Classroom When I first began teaching lessons during the TESOL Course I found myself almost automatically saying to the students, “English please,” after all it is an English class. However, I began to question myself about whether or not this was “correct” practice or if the students should in fact use their native language to assist them in the learning process. After doing some research I found the TESOL Law Code of Ethics. The Law of Ethics provided many vague and open-ended ideas. It suggested things along the lines of, “The foreign language teacher shall direct her whole professional effort to assist the students to develop his/her second language speaking ability.” It also mentions that TESOL teachers are to...  [Read more]

Visiting Colombia’s capital, Bogotá is a truly unique experience. Located high in the magnificent Andes Mountains at a breathtaking 2,640 meters, Bogotá is one of the highest capitals in the world, it is also home to Colombians from all over the country. Visitors to Bogotá are never short of anything to do during their time in the city. Whether it’s experiencing the local culture in the old downtown area, or exploring the city’s outskirts to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and fascinating wildlife, there is always something to do. Bogotá is a haven for foodies with quality restaurants dotted about the place. History buffs will enjoy the old houses, churches and convents dating back 300 hundred years. Bogotá also has numerous parks where you can exercise and be entertained by...  [Read more]

Problems for learners in a Country of your choice: Italy In this paper I will address the issues I face as a teacher from the context of living and working in Italy, as well as the common problems my students encounter while learning and speaking English. I also want to draw attention to the input culture and society has on language, and look at how these factors influence dynamics within the classroom. Of course, it is nearly impossible to view ones self outside your own given cultural perspective, so as a result of this I will also be discussing my own assumptions on how I "imagined" people might act, compared to the reality of the situation. Often I neglect to take into account these differences, simply because I was raised in America, where I am used to a different set of cultural...  [Read more]