In my experience, students learn best when they are interested and engaged in topics that are relevant to their lives, such as everyday communication, travel, or job-related language. When learning is practical and immediately useful, it increases motivation. This makes students more eager to apply what they’ve learned outside the classroom, which reinforces their understanding.
Creating a positive atmosphere is key. When students trust their teacher, they feel more comfortable taking risks with the language, which is crucial for growth. Language games are also an excellent tool, as they encourage collaborative learning and make the process enjoyable. By playing games, students can practice language in a low-pressure environment, which boosts confidence and retention.
Teachers can also foster growth by encouraging students to self-reflect and self-correct. This helps students take ownership of their learning and become more independent in their language use. Additionally, using a combination of visual aids, auditory inputs like music or videos, and role-play helps reinforce concepts in memorable ways. By engaging different senses and learning styles, students are more likely to retain and understand new material.
In short, students learn best when learning is relevant, engaging, and supported by a trusted teacher who creates a motivating and enjoyable environment.