English Tutor for Koreans

THE POWER OF LANGUAGE SKILLS

2010-10-25T12:46:00.000-07:00

WHO ARE YOUR STUDENTS? - My students are from various ages, school levels or profession. I am not accepting just any student. I select my student based on their eagerness to learn and reason why they wanted to learn L2. As a matter of fact, I terminated or rejected few students already from the past. The main reason was because, I am not after money but I want to teach student who are worthy by being meek and courteous which I am looking for before I accept anybody as my student. Because most often than not, when the applicant is not humble, the tendency is that he/she might boast the gift of knowing a 2^nd language because language gives power. It is a tool to make things realized and bring a person to different places. And if the learner is not courteous, he/she might disrespect me because I am easy to get along with, jolly and patience aside from being an Asian; as what I experienced before from my previous student Korean.

(Most of my students are living in Daejeon, Seoul, Ulsan and Andong.)

(Some example of their writing projects and diary including some students’ personal testimonial about my teachings are posted here.)

WHEN DID YOU START TEACHING ENGLISH TO DIFFERENT NATIONALS SPECIALLY KOREANS? It just happened by accident,when my theater colleague sister asked me if I could handle one Korean student. She is a middle school female student who was the language house manager’s headache that time. They can't please her,even though they already changed her teacher 3 times because she is always complaining about their teaching method. Therefore, I would be the 4^th teacher to handle her if ever. So, I felt pity with this girl thinking her parents colossal expenditures just to send her to another country to study and yet nobody can make her satisfied. So, it puzzled me why and it became a challenge to me to try, though I believed, I am not an expert.

When I met her, she is tall and looks smart. She is wearing eyeglasses and speaks so timid and has so much complexity expressing herself in English. I felt sorry for her when I was also told by the manager of the language house that she cry often because of discontentment. So, to gain her trust I immediately showed her my professional teacher’s license ID and also explained to her that I am a literary contest trainer in various schools and organizations.

Though, the compensation offer was very low to my surprised but, I still accepted it just for the sake of… Then, the following day, I interviewed her and assessed her English skills. I also asked her what is her goal in studying English. She said, “I want to speak English naturally”.
I wondered why she can’t be contented with her previous teachers. I inquired what are the materials or textbook they are using. How she was taught by her previous teachers. What exactly they are studying for every day session.

She showed me one textbook they are using and it is TOEIC GRAMMAR. Instantly, I dropped it on the floor. And she was stunned! Then, I said… “This is not what you need to achieve your goal”! I set aside all they are using even asked her to stop memorizing 30 individual words per week as what her previous teacher asked her to do. We start all over again and I applied a different approach...the "unconventional". Opposite of the common teaching method of a lot of teachers as we call it as general English.
I am the only teacher there who did not follows their syllabus, textbook etc but instead I brought my own. And they don’t know what I am using because we are always inside my student room when studying. So, one of the head teacher even tried to secretly observe my teaching from behind at beranda but I quickly stop when I saw her. Perhaps, she is wondering why I am not using all their textbook even some have audio cd that came from Korea which is so expensive.

After that first session, an irrepressible smile appeared on her face. Tantamount in saying, “I found hope at last”.

A staggering improvement in her speaking and listening skills was observed by other Korean students, teachers and including the manager after 14 days and 10 hours every session; which means our only break is to eat lunch and dinner. And she accomplished “Survival English” and accelerated to intermediate level after getting a high score in TOEIC pretest and conversation test conducted by the Korean language house owner.

(Before leaving for Korea (her home country) , she appreciated my effort very much and commended my unconventional method of teaching. But I answered back and said, “I am not a good teacher and there are lots of teacher out there who are better and were able to perfectly grasped the English grammar rules which I can’t…until now and striving because there are thousands of rules in English, unlike Korean language. Just you may say, I am different among the rest. As I always telling her again and again.)

WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR UNCONVENTIONAL METHOD OF TEACHING ENGLISH THAT YOUR STUDENTS FIND IT MORE HELPFUL COMPARED TO ESL OR GENERAL ENGLISH…? When I am just an elementary student, I studied Japanese language through my eldest brother’s lesson because he is studying Japanese at that time. It is also a big factor that my mother also likes to learn different languages and dialects that influenced me a lot. Therefore, aside from English as her 2^nd language she knows some few basic expressions in Spanish, Japanese, Chinese languages and some dialects like: Capampangan, Visaya and Ilocano.

So, when I became a university freshman student, I tried to learn Spanish too, because when I was young I enjoyed listening and watching my uncle talking to a retired Spanish priest who was given temporary home by him at the back of his clinic. Hence, my mother is working with my uncle as a nurse so she was able to talk to him too. And I also learned some basic expressions so, my uncle asked me a favor to accompany his Spanish doctor guest that year while staying in his clinic to learn cataract operation.

Then, after finishing my university degree course, I studied basic French because during that time I am aiming to apply a visa for Canada. For some reason my plan was impeded and I became a freelance tour guide mostly for French nationals during Lenten Season. Therefore, studying French became useful and not wasted.

After several years, I tried to study Korean as I already teaching Korean exchange student from Hannam University and Andong University as a private tutor after setting up a tutorial and arts center. But, because one of my rule: “to set aside temporarily the L1” while studying L2”, I also been affected. I can’t practice my Korean to them. Hence, if you don't use the language it will die a natural death. kkkk

Because, I am already very much involved in teaching English to Koreans so I decided to make it as an additional career aside from being a theater and media personality/director for more than 2 decades. So, I studied in Graduate School and took Masters in Language Education.

Then, when the so called “sleeping dragon” Chinese dominated the world market and putting them to the 2^nd spot as the wealthiest country, I got interested in learning their language too. But, I stopped in the middle of my studying because I realized that I‘d rather study the language of the country I considered my second home which is Korea; where my previous Korean students that I treated like daughters are living.

To make my story short, I acquired my own style of teaching based on my own experiences and doing research while taking up my masters in Language Education.

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU IF THEY ARE INTERESTED?

They can send email (maestraviajes2004@yahoo.com) first and write some little introduction even in Hangul and reason why they want to learn the language. They should also include some vital information like: yahoo messenger or skype address and contact number because I will assess and interview the applicant.

“Honesty is the best policy”!

(Note: There are lots of English teacher out there who are better and deserving to teach you grammar rules but, I believe that if you want to learn how to speak spontaneously-- learn spoken English and not grammar rules. Therefore, if you are looking for another alternative to learn English through unconventional way and for you to speak fast... then send me an email.)

ENGLISH ANXIETY

2010-09-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

It has passed more than 2 months since I arrived here. But my English skill stays there where it used to be. I’m very nervous about that. I thought 2 months is enough to make my speaking fluent. But I was wrong… as a matter of fact, not at all. Some say I have enough time until I go back to Korea . So I can improve much while rest of the period. But I’m not sure. If the ability will be stable for 2months it means there’s no possibility to improve. Am I too negative?

My hobby is watching movies and reading books. I really hope I can do those things with English without unknowing or misunderstanding. ASAP. Jane said our days in Philippines will be one of the most important experiences in our life. So, I’m afraid of missing those things because of pressure about English. I know… I definitely know… What I don’t know is my problem. (Oh, what am I talking about?) Why am I so nervous? What makes me so fidget? I’m sure I have problem about anxiety.

As long as I try to study hard, believe myself, it will going to happen. But I can’t do that well. If I don’t do anything about English…just watching movie all day long, when I go to bed, it makes me very irritated. I feel I’m such a jerk. The reason I came here is to study, not to watch movies! Actually, I feel I should study very hard sitting on chair, in front of desk just as I’m inquiring into something serious. But still, that can’t help me at all, especially speaking skill. I don’t know what I should do. Wherever I think about my parents, I feel terribly sorry for them. They are sure I’ve improved much already. I’m afraid that I’ll just make them disappointed. I’m their pride, faith, hope and love. I really want to read English books, particularly classic perfectly. I hope the day soonest that it will be possible. I’ll ask my tutor regarding that thing.

“What I should do to improve my English skill.” But, before that, I should remember this first: “Believing in my ability that I can do everything that I want to attain and hope for, because I really have it.” So, don’t be afraid of imperceptible future. I can do it!!!

by: Natalia Ahram
( a diary- Thu, August 21, 2008 9:59:00 PM )

English Education Should Be Changed

2010-09-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

As a person who wants to be an English teacher someday, I want to say about English Education in Korea. As you know, this is globalization ages and English is used as an official language in the world now. So far, actually, Korea government insisted students to study English from elementary to high school. To make people be able to have conversation with foreigners; they made the curriculum for that. But compared to the period that we've learned English for many years, almost Koreans can't speak English. I've considered the reason why we can't speak even though we spent many years studying.
In my point of view, there are some problems in English Education in Korea. Actually, Korean is a special alphabet and we can't change same pronunciation with English. Moreover, the unique language has different sentence structure with English. To speak by translation is too hard. That's why many Koreans have difficulty in learning the language.
I also… from being a middle school student, I've learned English in my school. But my previous English teachers also couldn't speak English well. We'd learned English the hard way. (There is an easy way which my tutor in the Philippines used to me as her own method…) And there was no chance to talk with friends in English. And in addition, if even teachers can't speak English well, then how could the students speak English too? I think that language can be useful when we have to use it for conversation. If we can't use the language, we couldn't say we've learned it.
But the English classes were studying all about English grammar. It was hard time for us to catch up. Imagine that we have to study same hard thing for many years. So, many friends were telling me that they were sick of studying English. “Why we didn’t study from young age?” If it's evident that we can't still speak it, we don't need to study. Then, what should we do first? We have to look for the reason why we are studying English.
Actually most of classes in Korea are the cramming education unlike other country. While teacher teaches his or her students, they are just listening to their teacher. Many Koreans can't express themselves well even in Korean. Teacher ought to give them the opportunities to participate and express themselves in class. I prefer the teaching method focusing on student's activities than listening.

In my case, I've studied in the Philippines for 6 months as an exchange student. I could notice that almost students took part in their classes. That's because professor also gave us many activities and questions to answers. I also, attended that kind of classes. So I participated in role playing, speech choir, teaching and presentation…etc. So we had to think, move and enjoy the activities in classes. Therefore, teachers make students become interested in their classes. Without interest, I think studying will be harder.
I hope that English Education in Korea will be changed to interpersonal thing. And then, students can have conversation with their friends and teachers. We have to consider about this to make this education be worthier than what we've been taught. I believe that it will happen soon.

by: Mejung Sat, December 6, 2008 10:54:41 PM
( Writing project of Mejung during 6 months of session)
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My friend, whom I called music.

2010-09-15T05:24:00.000-07:00

Music is an important thing in our lives. Music can make us happy or sad. I’ve cried listening to sad songs. I like listening to music, especially to pop music. They can be Korean songs or other countries’ songs. Mostly, I like the songs that I could easily sing like those with simple melody or it depends on the singer. When I’m in the mood, I usually listen to ballad but, I like dance music, too. The music makes me dance and excited.
I play the piano and violin. I used to study how to play those two instruments. When I was an elementary school student, I had a tutor for a piano lesson. I've won a prize in a piano contest. It was a great experience.
Actually, playing an instrument is an obligation in my elementary school; it is a private school. I don't remember if I chose the musical instrument or my mom did. Anyway, I've learned it for almost 10 years.
During the lessons, I was sometimes tired because of practicing vibratos. But, I didn’t give up doing it. Though, I stopped learning the violin, I've played it during our teacher's day in front of my class.
Moreover, when I was a high school student, I was a member of ensemble in a school festival (with team members). I've practiced it almost every night; study time by myself. The name of the piece was "Canon".
At the time, I played it in front of lots of people including school mates, teachers and family members. Even though they are just audience, I was very nervous. And yet, it is still one of my good memories. I can't forget it and whenever I look back that moment, I'm proud of myself.

I like to listen to music and play musical instruments. Until now, when I feel like playing the piano or the violin, I do it.
Music is a precious thing like a friend. Because there it is and waits for me when I need it. Today, I want to meet my friend, whom I called music.

by: Mejung 1-26-2009
( writing project)

LIFE STYLES

2010-09-15T05:19:00.000-07:00

In the world, each person lives with his or her own life style. He or she might have a different interest. Someone likes going out and traveling, other likes staying at home and others love playing sports.
Moreover, as time flies, life styles of people are changing. There are many things we can do through the internet even without seeing them personally or hanging out. Also these days, material wealth helps people comfort their lives while it makes them stress out. We can buy a lot of things with money; there are some people who even think money is everything. Because of this, few people got mentally sick, I think.
Do you think all people are contented with their lives? My answer is “No.” Of course, there must be some people enjoying their lives and others are not. But our society makes us greedy. We get something, and we want to get more. Some people are reluctant to give others, though they expect to get something from them.
We need not money, but enjoyment of our lives. Through giving of our love to others and helping them, we will be satisfied with our cool/simple lives. Also, try to find what you really want and enjoy what you want to do. Think in a positive way, face the challenge if you have a chance, and you will easily find contentment.

by: Mejung 1-1- 2009
( writing project)

ROTE MEMORIZATION

2010-09-14T00:30:00.000-07:00

Memorizing words and memorizing a complete phrase or sentences...the efforts are the same. So, as a language teacher, I'm discouraging my students to memorize individual word but rather phrases.

Getting comprehinsible input through meaningfull phrases or sentences will bring you to places.

Several Koreans that I encountered saying, " English vocabulary are just floating in my head but I can't speak it out".

I agree that memorization is vital but studying under stress due to memorizing thousands of individual words (which easily forgotten) will harm the learning process. So, why torture yourself memorizing invidivual words in flash cards... filed in your wall. Exposure in English is just the key and there are lot of ways to do that. Listening, watching, reading aloud correct English and good articles; speaking beginning from simple to complex. As how you learn your first language.

Teacher, I am a lucky lady, I know!!!

2010-09-12T03:11:00.000-07:00

Thu, September 11, 2008 11:19:52 AMRe: at last!

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Hello !
Good afternoon :)
I always recieved your e-mail very well.
I am really thankful to you.

First time, before arriving here I couldn't speak English even easy word.
But now, I can speak English even little ;)
I hope that my speaking will improve hehe ^^

You know what ..?
I have little confidence about English .
Thank you for helping me!)
I always want to study with you.
Anyway , thank you and take care.

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Dear Mihyun:

YOU DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH...kkkk

Everything that I did and say even it hurts sometimes and you feel like hating me...it's for your own sake!!! " You might think it's a stone but it's an apple!!!

Teacher Gie

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Fri, November 28, 2008 12:36:55 AM

Hello, this is Mihyun,

How are you today ~? These days, I thought a lot of things. Regarding you and me, it is true. If I didn't meet you, maybe I studied grammar which I already knew.

Since June, we experienced a lot of things. We quarreled about small things. But it does already pass 5months, ha-ha. When I saw you first time, I was nervous, in your office. You know, but now, we are like family: a good student to a teacher, friends, mom and daughter!! Kkkk

Through your teachings, I am not perfect but I could speak in English well now. I am satisfied!! I want to remember everything regarding you and me. As I told you last day, actually I really worried about my English skill. I just have the time which already arranged 7months. So I had to finish or improve my level. After 4months, my English skill was not improving a lot...yet. But one time, I realized I have confidence already. I couldn't believe it until now... I am not perfect; I don't know all of words. But I have improved so I can speak in English with confidence.

I really appreciate it :) if I would studied a lot, for example: if I had sessions 4times a week then I could realize my skill early, but nevertheless, I am satisfied! I could understand everything that your friend told me something last night.

I hope you can see my mind... without appearance or expression.
Teacher, I am a lucky lady, I know!!!

Never To Be Forgotten Trip!

2010-09-12T03:09:00.000-07:00

Julia and I planed to go “BOHOL” and “Panglao Island”. Dr. Castellio helped us about that. First, we planed that we will go for a trip on Nov. 5 to 8, 2008, but that time is Halloween day so we couldn’t book. Next day finally, we reserved airplane ticket Nov. 2 to 5. I really expected about my plan for a trip but I had a problem with traffic jam because that times also a national holiday. So we decided that we will leave Saturday night and sleep in Quezon City (Julia’s friend house).

When we went there Julia’s friend treated us dinner and many foods so we could eat Korean food. We talked about our trip and many things so we couldn’t sleep early. We slept 2am and we woke up 4:30 am so we were so tired. We left their house 5:10 am and we rode jeepney to MRT station and we rode MRT. Finally we arrived in Pasay station and rode taxi to airport. We had a hard time for traffic.

When we arrived in the airport, we were so surprised because the airport is so big and clean. I heard the airport was built recently. There were many foreigners. We received air ticket and waited at gate 120. Our gate was crowded with people going to Bohol . At last, we rode airplane and took off. The airplane was swayed by airflow. The situations were same when we was riding airplane before 5months ago. After 1 hour we arrived in Tagbilaran airport!!

When we came out of the airport, we couldn’t find our tour guide so we called Dr.Castellio. We were very worried about a lot of things, because we didn’t know anything even that city. At that time Julia found a man who is holding a name placard. Finally we were relieved; we found the guy. Our tour guide took us along Dumaluan Resort located at Panglao Island . We saw fantastic sea background along our way while riding car.

Finally we arrived, “Dumaluan Resort”. As soon as arriving there, we could see fantastic beach. I couldn’t believe there was magnificent beach. I viewed it and also people there. As soon as we put our pack down, we ran to the beach. The beach’s water color is bluish green. I’ve never been see that color. I couldn’t close my mouth in astonishment …. We devoted our time playing at the beach and even slept in beach chair.

I always watched the bluish green color’s of sea on TV. I can’t explain my feeling until now because our country doesn’t have the same like it. Our sea is just dark blue or indigo. Maybe seeing the sea like that is my first and I hope it will not be the last, hehehe. And also white sand. I really miss the sea.

After we had the pleasure spending our time at the beach, we ate stuffed squid with meat and vegetables for lunch. It was delicious! In the evening, we ate sesame fried shrimp. I ate all of the shrimp because Julia feels sick in her stomach. I peeled it and ate shrimp meat. After finishing dinner, we went around the beach again and took pictures many times. So our first day passed like that.

Second day, we started our tour. We went to Bohol . First, we visited “chocolate hills”. I already heard about that place because my Hannam University friends went there. They told me, “you have to go there”. When we arrived at Chocolate hills, I saw the grand hills but not chocolate color. If I go there in December, I can see the real color of it…chocolate. There were many hills I think because I couldn’t count it all. There is a cameraman for taking pictures and he said us, “I will take a picture for you”. So, we gave our camera to him and then he took a picture. He also gave me a broom but at first, I don’t want to receive it because I thought we are going to pay for that. He said, “it is free so don’t worry. We were relieved after he said that. After that we immediately saw our picture. We looked like to magician at the Chocolate hills. It was so funny!

Next itinerary, we went to “Loboc River”. It was almost like Pagsanghan Falls , where we went before weeks ago. It was very similar except one difference… and that is we can eat lunch while the boat is moving; that’s why it is called “floating restaurant.” We could enjoy buffet when we ate lunch and also watched dancing performances. Maybe, I think that is their source of revenue.

After that, we went toward the hanging bridge; we took pictures first at “Man made forest”. I heard this forest is just man made as the name imply. I could feel fresh air.

Then, we proceed to “hanging bridge”. The bridge was made of bamboo tree so I was scared and I couldn’t pass the bridge. I stepped just almost 10steps. If I passed that bridge, I couldn’t breath. When I took a picture, the people looked at me. I was shy but I took a picture as remembrance.

Then we viewed “Tarsius syrichta”, which are small monkeys which have very big eyes. When I saw the monkey I was very surprised and felt it is very cute. He came up the back of my hand and stared at me. The appearance was so cute. He looks like an ET (kkkk). One boy gave the small monkey crackers. Tarsiers ate crackers with sounds. I couldn’t forget small monkey so I bought souvenir for my family and friends.

Fifth, we went to “Baclayon town and church”. The Baclayon was so wonderful. If I stand there, I could observe the sea, blue sky and green forest. I couldn’t forget the place. We could take a picture with our tour guide. While we touring around Bohol , he was so kind and gentle.

When we came back to resort, Julia asked him, “Is this Alona beach?” He said, “No, this not Alona beach but I can take you there by my motorcycle”. And we said “we like it very much! Thank you!” At last, we ride his motorcycle and go to “Alona beach” in the evening.

We also went to “Panglao town”. The Panglao town looks like a big park. I took pictures with our kind tour guide. We liked him and he also liked us. So we had a good time.

The following day we woke up 5:00am because the employee said, “if you want to watch the dolphin, you have to leave in here 6:00am”. So we woke up 5:00am and ate breakfast 5:30 am and leave at 6:00am. When we arrived in the middle portion of the sea (…perhaps?) finally we could watch dolphin’s jumping. It was so marvelous. I couldn’t explain my feeling that time until now.

Then we planned to go to Balicasag Island . The employee of the resort said “if you go to Balicasag Island , you can watch dolphins and visit too Coral Island .” We really expected about that.

When we arrived there, we wanted to snorkel but the price was expensive because we are just 2 people. If we are 5people it could be inexpensive. But, we don’t have any choice. So we decided to go although we are just 2 people and shoulder the expenses. And then, as soon as getting off the boat… I shouted, “oh my God!!” because there are many corals and fish. I’ve never seen that before that close. When I feed the fish under the sea, many fish leap at me. I thought I had a dream and I didn’t want to wake up. There was boat man guiding us. My guide was so funny and kind. So I could view under the sea without feeling scared. He took me to the deep portion of the water. First time, when he led me there, I was so scared but after that I wanted to go deeper. He tried to take me to the wide area for viewing and always checked my feeling and my equipment. He caught fish, starfish for me and gave it to me. The fish looks like a ball and stuff with water. It was so astonishing. The fish was so cute and fat. When we finished snorkeling, I really felt something wanting. I still remember about that until now! Not him...the corals and fish, kkkkk!!!

Our last day came; we just packed our luggage and took a picture for the last time. I reminiscence a lot of things on our way home…the sky was so wonderful to view in the airport.

For three days, I had many experiences and went to many places. I am not sure I can go there again. Maybe I can’t go there again, this is the first and last time but I know my remembrance will still remain in my mind. I will never forget it and I will tell to my family, “ it was so fantastic”!!!

by: Mihyun
(writing project after 5 months of sessions Wed, November 12, 2008 11:22:34 AM)

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FOR ENGLISH INTERVIEW

2010-09-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hello.
I am Youngsang who want to learn English from You.
Goal of my English study is fluent conversation in English.
There are many reasons.
But the most important reason is job searching.
I need fluent English skill for English interview when I apply foreign companies.
I want to meet you as soon as possible.
I'll wait your reply.

Thank you.

Youngsang
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Dear teacher Gie.

Good evening.
Yes, I am a husband of a college of Yoon Jeong.
I have two test results; TOEIC (770) and OPIc (intermediate high).
I studied English one years ago at the English institute SDA.

I heard you from Yoon Jeong via my wife.
But I do not heard your method and fee in detail.
I want to study an hour every weekday.

I want to get a level test from you, and know exact information about fee.
Thank you.

Best regards,
Youngsang

Please help me-- TOEIC grades

2010-08-24T23:11:00.000-07:00

hello teacher ~~

I'm Julia's sister.. cristine..^^..ㅋㅋ

(your English skill level..goal, dream, career)

I hear to you very kindly, have passion, etc.,
also... to you questions my answers..

my dream is flight attendent. therefore study English very hard...
also speaking is very well....umm.. also TOEIC grades..

this time vacation goal..
study English as much as i possible (?....^^;;;;)
so TOEIC grades raise..
listening is my weakness.. of course speaking and grammar..

I think the biggest weak point is.. to English self-confidence..
I need your help..

please help me..

with you .. I will study English hard..
thank you ^^...;;;;;

I need your help.

2010-08-24T22:30:00.001-07:00

Hello!!

How do you feel today?

It's very cold yet. here.

we are met for online.

I saw our messenger conversation again, there is a problem

you don't know about me

bucause we don't have conversation very well (대화가 잘 전달되지 않아서)

so let me introduce myself to you

I have an English name, jina

I work trading company. foreigners come often

so I must to conversation with them

I want learn English to you

I learned English to middle school and high school and college. for eight years

but it is formal

our education is a limit. so I will learn it again

I need your help.

I think my english is poor - English tutor for Koreans

2010-08-24T22:21:00.000-07:00

Hello, Herrera.

Nice to meet you.
I'm Ellena.
Ellena is my english name.
My Korean name is Hyeyun.
I'm 30 years old.
I'm a computer system engineer.
My hobby is watching TV drama and animation and reading comic books.
Especially I like Japanese drama, animation and books.
I live in Daejeon.
I think my english is poor.
But I need it for work.
I'd like to learn english from 8 to 10 on Saturday and Sunday from 13 Febrary.

Have a good time.

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Dear Gie,

Yes, I want to learn english at 8:00pm-10pm Philippine time.

Let us keep in touch.

Have a good day~.

Ellena

My 12 years old tutee first diary. kkkkk

2010-08-24T22:18:00.000-07:00

hello ~

i'm hanz

good bye~
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I'm hanz

my frined songmin like computer and dong gi? like sports

I can listen to only konglish( korean pronunciation)

2010-08-24T22:12:00.000-07:00

hi, my name is Amy...korean name is chan-young

i happy to see you...

*Requirement in studying with me ON LINE: just head set (with webcam) and YAHOO messenger
*internet connection is good

*i have to LEVEL 1.

my weeknees is hearing. i have studied for ten years. so it seems to read a letter in english

but i have not listened to english,,,i am poor at hearing ,,,very very poor.

i can listen to only konglish( korean pronunciation)

can i speak(hear) english well?

first of all, i'd like to do 4 hours per week on November. i can do on weekand because i go to school at weekdays night

sat.9:00~11:00, sun 9:00~11:00

and then, i'd like to do 6 hours per week on December.

The reason I study English - English Tutor for Koreans

2010-08-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce myself.

My Korean name is yoon-jeong and English name is Tasha.
Tasha is my favorite singer's name.

I'm 24 years old in Korean age. My birthday is February 10th.

My favorite food is fried chicken and baked chicken.

I graduated Chung-nam university at February 2008. My major is food science technology.

Present, I work part-time at Korea National Statistical Office for 7 months. But, I'm bad study math^ ^;

The reason I study English, I want to free talk with foreigner in English because, now I can't speak English very well.

I have a favor. When We are on study time, would you speak slowly, please?
I will study harder. Then if you speak faster, I can hear and understand your talking.

I'm glad to meet you - English Tutor for Koreans

2010-08-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm glad to meet you.

Let me introduce myself to you.

My name is Lee Sang.(My English name is james)

I'm fifteen years old.

I'm a student in Han Bat middle school. My school is famous of baseball.

My hobby is playing computer games or reading books.

And my family member is four(My father, mother, younger brother and me).

When I was 7 years old, I first learned English.

I have a reason that learning english is I want to learn more Talking & Listening.

I need more knowledge in English.

I'm not good at English, but I will try to study hard.

I want to speak English fluently

2010-08-24T21:52:00.000-07:00

Hi~! Nice to meet you. ( English Tutor for Koreans).

My name is So-Yeon. And my english name is Rachel.

I'm 22 years old. (In Korean age)

Right now I'm a junior in Han-Nam University.

I am majoring in English Language & Literature.

However I'm not confident in English. I need confidence more.

My birthday is on April fifteenth, 1988 and my blood type is A.

My hobby is listening to music.

Actually, when I was young, I wanted to be a famous singer, hehe~^^

I have five family members, my father, mother, two older sisters and me.

Although there are difficult time, we love each other so much and we are very peaceful family.

I first learned English at elementary school when I was 10 years old,

but in earnest I started to study English from when I was a middle school student.

Nevertheless I'm not good at English.

Because I have never studied English enough until now.

I want to speak English fluently. I sincerely want it.

I'm sorry about sending a e-mail so late.

I'd like to get along well with you, hopefully.

ENGLISH TUTOR FOR KOREANS STUDENT'S TESTIMONIAL- James

2010-08-24T08:23:00.001-07:00

James - testimonial

Teaching and learning is like a thread and needle. What is the biggest common between these? I think it's the passion. It's wasting time when teaching and learning without the passion. In this way, my English tutor for Koreans has lots of passion and at times, it comes to me a burden. She, with a passion, takes care of her students all the time. I can realize the real teaching when I see her dedicating her valuable time for her students.

I'm very lucky person as learner from her who has infinitive love and passion.

ENGLISH TUTOR FOR KOREANS STUDENT'S TESTIMONIAL- Ahram

2010-08-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

Ahram - testimonial

First of all, my English tutor for Koreans and I have lots of conversation, so it helps me to learn some expressions and vocabularies that I want to express. Moreover, I can learn several words because there are many topics we talk about. She makes the comfortable air, so I can develop my English skill easily without any pressure to study. Also, she corrects my mistakes in every expression that I make right away , so I can remember that easily.

She really helps me to improve my listening and speaking skills as a whole, but it is a little uncomfortable to share about personal things that are not involved with a session at all. Except that, I am very content with her. kkkk

ENGLISH TUTOR FOR KOREANS STUDENT'S TESTIMONIAL- Mi Hyun

2010-08-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

Mi hyun - testimonial

The first time I met her, I didn't know who she is. But, the university vice president for external affairs where we are studying as exchange student introduced her as an English tutor for Koreans.

And we had our first session at her office, at that time. I was really nervous. We finished the session talking about and knowing each other on that day. Although we were awkward for the first time, now, after two months, we are comfortable like a friend. The first and also most important reason I wanted to have a tutor is to speak English fluently. I think we can keep having our sessions because the way I want to learn and she teaches me fits well. My tutor teaches me not only English but also the cultures of the Philippines which I had difficulty with and I didn't know, so it was helpful for me; I could relied on her.

She does not make the demarcation between a teacher and a student. I feel we are like a family. I felt she is like my mom. Sometimes, it was uncomfortable that she interfered and concerned too much in triple things of me like my mom. Of course I thank her she really cares and concerns about me and I think it's good to me. We are very closer, so it's comfortable to communicate with her and I feel my English skill and the confidence in English is developing as having our sessions with her three times a week. I've been invited to many good places, performances and seen. I felt many things owing to my good tutor. I will keep studying with her. And I think I'm lucky to meet her as my tutor who is diligent and sincerely enjoying to teach.

ENGLISH TUTOR FOR KOREANS STUDENT'S TESTIMONIAL- Me jung

2010-08-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

Mejung- testimonial

I was curious and awkward to have a session in this unfamiliar country at first. I've had this kind of session in Korea so far, but most of them focused on grammar. However, what our society calls for is speaking skill in English. To let students learn how to speak in English, we need teachers who can communicate fluently. But there are few teachers who have that faculty in Korea. So people who really want to learn to speak English go to the academies which teach the skill of conversation in English. As I took it for granted that I learn English from Filipinos when I came here, my teacher plays a principal role in this way, for me. In addition, the most important thing in studying is an interest of students and my teacher also think that much. I was sick of grammar but interested in expressing myself and speaking English. We practiced to speak English exchanging our opinion with various topics. Through these courses, I can express myself and speak what I want to say in English to some extent while I couldn't speak few words in English before.

The good and also bad feature of my teacher is that she loves us much. She always takes care of us like a mother. And we feel her like our mother, in fact. She thinks us much, helps us to study properly finding our interest and concerns about us all the time. She is sometimes strict to us. She scolds us when we break the rules that she made for us. But the rules are essential for us, I think. One of the rules is thinking and speaking English all the time. It seems easy but difficult, so we who came here to learn English really need it.

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Even I'm back here in Korea I continuously study with my English Tutor through ON LINE. And I'm glad I made the decision of studying with her continuously. I'm now very comfortable with my English speaking and could talk naturally with my co-teachers American here in our Hagwon.

Thanks to my English tutor and 2nd mommy.kkkk

Learning with me...

2010-08-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

Due to some phony inquiries made by my competitors that I ‘m scrupulously dealing with real prospective clients only, and can’t just give answers in details without knowing a little background about the person inquiring or should be referred by my Korean students/friends.

But, to give you a little bird’s eye view… I’m not using General English in teaching (ESL, TESOL etc). I’m using a different method which I discovered as more effective and fast specially in learning how to speak very well; based on my own experiences and research as I also learn different languages before (Japanese, Spanish, French, Korean and Mandarin). This is the reason why all of my students after they followed all my rules they learn very fast and get high score in English Exam (whatever exam it is) and they even referring their other family members and friends to study with me.
Answers to some inquiries:

*Requirement in studying with me ON LINE: just head set (with or without webcam) and YAHOO messenger. Because my ON LINE students are all using Y.M. (They find it more simple and comfortable to use than SKYPE)

*Good internet connection as a vital tool for studying ON LINE.

*Students are studying with me from: LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3 (each level consist of 6-8 months and at least not less than 6 -8 hours per week for beginners LEVEL 1 …Survival English, American or British accent and intonation, stress, listening, reading and speaking, conversational English and English for Specific Purpose (depending on student’s educational background or career objective.)

*… very casual approach in teaching and learning with fun.

* Certificate of Accomplishment will be given to deserving students who successfully finished a level.

My method in teaching English

2010-08-21T09:48:00.000-07:00

Dear English learner:

I am proud to announce to you my very affordable and effective way on how you can learn and speak English fast and fun with ESP method which I am using.

WHAT IS ESP (English for Specific Purpose)

Hutchinson et al. (1987:19) who state, "ESP is an approach to language teaching in which all decisions as to content and method are based on the learner's reason for learning"
.
'What is the difference between the ESP and 'General English' approach (ESL)?' Hutchinson et al. (1987:53) answer this quite simply, "in theory nothing, in practice a great deal".
Definition of ESP (Dudley-Evans, 1997)
Absolute Characteristics
1. ESP is defined to meet specific needs of the learners
2. ESP makes use of underlying methodology and activities of the discipline it serves
3. ESP is centered on the language appropriate to these activities in terms of grammar, lexis, register, study skills, discourse and genre.

Why I am not using ESL method?

ESL is ineffective in training students to speak English because it does almost nothing to retrain the brain to coordinate hearing and to control millions of nerve sensors in the mouth. ESL emphasizes language memory, but it does almost nothing to help the student's brain coordinate all of the new information into spoken English.

Students universally complain because ESL does not teach them to speak English. It can't. ESL principally teaches two things (language memory and visual memory) and only one of these is required in speech. At its very best, ESL partially teaches only one of the three essential elements required in spoken language.

In order to learn to speak a new language:

1. We must retrain our brain for new memory and speech coordination. We must also retrain our brain so that it can respond to the thousands of nerve signals from our mouths which are different for the new language.
2. We must retrain our ears so that we hear sounds which we do not use in our native language.
3. We must retrain all of the thousands of nerve sensors in our mouth so that each part in our body which is involved in speech can reproduce the new words and sentences.

DESCRIBING AND EXPLAINING SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION (SLA)

2010-08-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

1. ADULT LERNING vs CHILD LEARNERS- as I read on Malcolm Knowles is by no means the only scholar to theorize or write about adult learning concepts …he adopted the terms “andragogy” to differentiate the teaching of adults from pedagogy, the teaching of children.
His model of adult learning can be summarized by saying that adults are motivated to learn information for which they understand the purpose and see practical applications.
This is what Wes (an immigrant) experienced and adopted learning English in surroundings where it serves as a means of daily communication and practical application for him to do his business.
Wes failed to use some grammatical features at all and used others incorrectly. These are errors of omission and overuse. J and R ( subject children for L2)

2. ADULT LEARNERS-, specially those who are so strict and conscious about grammar things are having difficulty or slow in learning a second language because based on my experience as a teacher for foreigners, they are being either “holistic or analytic thinkers. Unlike if students even if adult will learn the second language ( L2) like children, they will learn fast because children learn their L2 by verbal approach and visual approach ; experience information, “read, see or hear.

KIM- speaking without grammar thinking

2010-08-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

When I was young, my father always called me “Teacher Kim”. At that time, I didn’t have an interest to become a teacher while; I thought I have to be a teacher someday. But after I took an education course in Hannam University and had teaching experience, I got interested in teaching profession and I feel happy.
I took educational course in Hannam University while I was taking both English and French subjects. For 4 years in my campus life, I had lot of experiences not only teaching but also other various jobs like selling things, counseling in a call service center and so on.
I believe, “Experience is the best teacher”. That is why I worked in different companies. Through this, I’ve learn many things for example, how to handle or treat others. I always enjoyed working. In addition, I sense a feeling of contentment when I’m teaching my students.
I had taught English in some English schools since I was in junior course, 3rd grade in Hannam. I volunteered to teach some old people English at night school. Moreover, since I took Education course, I had a chance to teach English in a public middle school where I used to go.
Two years ago, one of my dreams came true. And that is to go abroad as an exchange student and that is the Philippines. I took the most numbers of classes among other exchange students. Through this, I could make lots of friends and gain confidence to have conversation with them. Fortunately, I met a tutor, who taught me how to speak English without thinking grammar things. Thanks to her, I had a chance to teach some Filipino children English and Math.

Ye Ji - I want to study with you again.

2010-08-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

I realized you have a very big meaning and a precious person to me.
And I want to regain my life again to be an English teacher.
So I hope… “I want to study with you.”
It was the most valuable time when I studied English with you.
Could you allow me to be your student again?

I miss you so much!
Could you send me your schedule and allow me to be your student ON LINE?
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( writing project)

It is very sunny and bright weather. There are some birds chirping on the ground under the tree. Beside these, there is a man who is sitting on the bench and looks a little depress and serious. He was once a very successful businessman named Shin Hah Min. But after retirement, he usually spends time thinking of the past and his family. At this moment, he must thinking of his family again, especially his son’s family. He has a son, Shin Tae Jun, who is his only child. Tae Jun is living in another country with his family and working as a diplomat. When he went abroad, he can not help but leave his father in their hometown. Hah Min had a very firm will to stay his hometown and be buried there as many old people have done. For this reason, these days he really feels emptiness not only of losing his job but also of missing his son. So, everyday he imagines about the life of his son’s family.

Tae Jun has breakfast around 7a.m. with his family (wife and daughter). His wife, Oh Jung Hae, is also working as a diplomat with him. Because of this, he hired a babysitter to substitute for his wife during day time. Whenever Hah Min thinks about the babysitter, he cannot do anything but worry that she might not treat his granddaughter well. But he was just relieved whenever he gets his son’s call. Tae Jun always calls him at 4:55 before he goes back home from work to make his father not to worry about his family. Even though Tae Jun is far from his father, he never forgets to call him and inquire after Hah Min’s safety.

Today, his son is going to call him at exactly 4:55 as usual again. This is the happiest time for Hah Min.

YU- You made me speak very well.

2010-08-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

...I couldn’t speak in English and nobody taught about speaking. I had to learn by myself. Then I met my tutor so I could have opportunity to speak in English. After 5months, I have confidence. It really was a surprised. I thought learning English or learning another country’s language is very difficult but if someone helps you to study then we can learn easily. Not easily but it will help a lot.
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The time already passed 5months and I changed a lot. I never thought that I can continuously write and speak in English. I couldn’t make even an easy sentence before. I just thought English was so boring and bothersome. I am still astonished about myself now. In my first time, studying English, I had so much hardship and feel depressed many times. But now, I can say that …” English is the easiest language to speak and I made it”. I already made it but not that hard at all because of my wonderful tutor. Hahahaha!!!
I really appreciate my tutor here in the Philippines. I will not forget my life in here.
What a lovely English… ^ㅡ^ and tutor!!!
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Hello.
I checked my TOEIC grade …and I got good grade kkk!!!
I got more than 800 grades!!! Oh my God!!!
And I got perfect grade in listening part!!!
I got 820 grade kkk!!!! I am so happy!!! ( I’m not an English major)
Thank you!!! Because of you!!! I got good grade!!!
I love you mommy (teacher)!!! Really thank you!!!
I appreciated you!!!

(Diary by: YU)