What is a backward language lesson?
A backward language lesson is a custom lesson that is designed jointly by the teacher and student based on the student's interests, needs, and experiences. In a traditional lesson, the teacher chooses the topic and tells the student what they will study. In a backward lesson, most of your learning will take place outside of class time, through your day-to-day experiences in the world as well as structured assignments. Class time is for asking questions, receiving feedback, and practicing what you have learned outside of class.
What can I expect from backward language lessons?
Because each lesson is individualized, all lessons are different.
Examples of past lessons include:
What you will not use in this type of lesson:
What you can use in this type of lesson:
Examples of past lessons include:
- Expressions/idioms (including when and how to use them in your own speech and writing)
- Slang/vernacular (including whether each term is appropriate for use in different contexts)
- Conversation (with continuous/live feedback)
- Help understanding friends/coworkers/professors
What you will not use in this type of lesson:
- English textbooks, tests, traditional homework (e.g. grammar worksheets)
What you can use in this type of lesson:
- Rap songs
- Real emails
- Popular books/novels
- Podcasts
- Almost anything else you can think of that uses natural American English!
Who should take backward language lessons?
Backward language lessons are recommended if you are:
This type of lesson is not appropriate for:
- Living, working, or studying in the US
- Living, working, or studying with native speakers of English (particularly American English)
- A teacher of English (TESOL/ESL/EFL) who is not a native speaker
- An advanced English learner who wants to continue using the language after finishing traditional classes
This type of lesson is not appropriate for:
- Beginner, intermediate, or upper intermediate English learners
- Students who do not have regular contact with English