My college degree is in Political Science, and I am especially interested in politics, history and current events. I like classical music, opera and jazz. I played American Football in school, and continue to play golf and tennis. I like to learn about other cultures and have traveled extensively in Europe and Asia; most recently in Switzerland and Italy. Another interest is art: I draw and paint in oil and watercolor.
Ich als Lehrkraft
People have told me that I am a natural teacher. I worked most of my life in law enforcement, then after retiring, I did some substitute teaching in public schools in Vermont. I taught all grade levels and subjects and found that I loved working with young people. More recently, I obtained a TEFL/TESOL certification and began teaching English as a second language. This has been one of the most rewarding endeavors of my life. I would say that my strengths as a teacher are patience and persistence. I am willing to do what it takes to see that the student succeeds.
Meine Stunden und mein Unterrichtsstil
My lessons for beginning students involve the use of realia and pictures to introduce initial vocabulary and grammar. I follow the curriculum in "Practice Makes Perfect Basic English, Second Edition"to ensure that essential grammar is covered. For more advanced students, I tend to use a lot of IELTS preparation material,whether or not the student is planning to take that test. I just find those materials to be excellent for developing grammar, vocabulary and fluency. I also use materials taken from news articles, literature, poems and song lyrics. I try to customized these materials for the needs of the particular student and to always leave time for free conversation practice.
John is a brilliant teacher. He explains the meanings of words by giving funny examples and also by explaining where those words come from and how they are used in a daily life or in the academic world, which helps me learn them much more easily. During the class, he uses different techniques to improve my reading and listening skills besides my speaking skills. Also, he is punctual and gives importance to finish the task at hand even though our time is over.
8. Mai 2019
mobile1693
10 Englisch Unterrichtsstunden
Auswahl der Lehrkraft
Having classes and talking with John was a great experience, he has a good sence of humor which makes the class very interesting. He is very patient and open-mineded and well prepared and a good listener. I have learned many new words and really enjoyed the lessons.
27. Juli 2018
X Æ A-12
3 Englisch Unterrichtsstunden
It was a great catch up on history, news and some fun events John shared with me. Informative and engaging as always!
23. Feb. 2025
Julia
46 Englisch Unterrichtsstunden
Auswahl der Lehrkraft
I liked to talk to John very much. We had a great conversation about everything. Very enjoyable and fun. Thank you, John!
31. Aug. 2018
Milada Drvoštěpová
55 Englisch Unterrichtsstunden
it was perfekt lesson with you John thank you so much