Learning a language is more than just drilling vocabulary and grammar, and the way a language is taught has a big impact of the effectiveness of the lessons. I combine several techniques to help you get the most out of your Thai language lessons.
During our first meeting I will determine your learning style: visual, auditory, or tactile/kinesthetic. Understanding your preferred way of learning will help me match my teaching style to your learning style and increase the effectiveness of the lessons.
I will create tailor-made lessons that fit your learning style, goals, and interests. This guarantees a fully personalized curriculum that offers much better value for money than the “one-size-fits-all” books and CDs that are on the market.
If you would like to learn more about the different language styles and how they influence your learning, please read this Introduction to Learning Styles.
All 1-hour Thai lessons are broken down into 3 parts. Below is a typical breakdown of a lesson.
This review at the beginning of each lesson ensures that you will never forget what you’ve learned.
For example: a conversation in a restaurant. We will first discuss the vocabulary your need and then practice the conversation. This includes grammar, pronunciation, asking questions, expressing opinions, etc. We use a lot of role play to recreate real life situations as much as possible.
I always record the correct pronunciation for you during the lesson, so you will be able to listen to the lesson as many times as you want and practice the pronunciation on your own.
Depending on your learning style I will use different teaching methods to ensure that the lesson is fun and interesting for you. With visual learners I often use pictures; verbal learners like to repeat a lot, etc.
Studying Thai in your own country, from the comfort of your own home, is very convenient but makes it harder to practice the language in real life situations. That’s why, from time to time, I will surprise you by inviting a native Thai speaker (who doesn’t speak any English) to the lesson.
I will be present during the whole 10-15 minute conversation you have with the native Thai speaker so I can listen to it and evaluate it with you afterwards.
The most important benefit of this exercise is that it allows you to practice what you have learned in a safe and supportive environment. You will feel as if you are in Thailand already!
Another very effective way to practice your Thai and keep lessons diverse is speaking Thai with a fellow student. I will match you up with a student who is at the same level as you are. During the conversation with your fellow student you will only be allowed to speak Thai.
I will be present during the whole 10-15 minute conversation you have with your fellow student (a three-way conference call) so I can listen to the conversation and evaluate it with you afterwards.
The most important benefit of speaking to a fellow student is self-confidence during the conversation. Because you understand each other’s struggle and are both eager to learn, you will be less worried about making mistakes. You will be able to speak more freely.
Successful language learning starts with choosing the right teacher. A good teacher not only makes a connection with you, but also establishes a connection between you and the subject to be studied.
44 Thai Consonant Cards
Complete set of Thai language consonant flash cards
43 Thai Vowel Cards
Complete set of Thai language vowel flash cards – includes tone marks and punctuation