TEACHER CASE STUDIES

Listen & Learn: Hi there! Please tell us a little about what you teach, and why?
Francisca: ¡Hola! My name is Francisca. I am a Spanish language teacher born in 1979 in a small town in the middle of La Mancha, Spain. It has been my dream to be a teacher since I was a child. I have always had a strong desire to travel around the world and discover new cultures. I feel very fortunate as I am living in the UK at the moment. As a Spanish language tutor, I enjoy sharing the Spanish culture with others and I get to develop my passion: teaching Spanish. Seeing the language through my learners’ eyes is a precious experience for me. So, I consider myself very lucky!!!

Listen & Learn: Where did you study, how long have you been teaching, and what age groups do you usually teach?
Francisca: I studied for my Master’s degree in Granada, a wonderful city in the south of Spain. There I spent one of the most important periods of my life. After completing my Bachelor of Philosophy and post-graduate study in Education, I decided to specialize in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language. I have been teaching since 2007, and during this time I have taught a wide variety of courses and students. I have taught Spanish to students of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities, at all levels.

Listen & Learn: What do you think a student should bring in to the lesson?
Francisca: Well, I think a good attitude is really important, as well as motivation, confidence and patience.

Listen & Learn: What do you think is important for the teacher to bring to the lesson?
Francisca: Encouragement, preparation, creativity, and patience are all essential for the teacher, as well as good communication skills. For me it is very important to teach in a fun and motivational way!

Listen & Learn: What is your favourite teaching story?
Francisca: I have had many funny “culture shocks”. Many years ago, one student from Taiwan asked me about my salary. In my culture this is not a usual question and it resulted in a few laughs. This is why I believe it’s so important to teach not only language, but also culture.

Listen & Learn: What are three words that describe you?
Francisca: Well, it is not easy…only three words? If I have to choose three words to describe me I would say I am a patient person, cheerful and energetic!