Ask Headmaster Ken

Dear Headmaster Ken,

I am due to leave the States for Nanjing very soon to teach at a foreign language school. What I was wondering is what are you expected to teach at a foreign language school? I haven't really been able to gather that much information from my contact at the foreign affairs office at all.

I have been reading the teaching guide but what I understand from my reading is that foreign language teachers are mostly there to help with oral English. I really want to be a good teacher but since I have no idea what area of English I am supposed to focus on, it makes it very difficult to try to plan a lesson. Anyways, hope to get some very needed advice.

Sarah

For a very thorough answer to your question, take a look at the following material:

What Do Foreign Oral English Teachers in China Actually Teach?

My three-part series on teaching methodology, strategy, and classroom management for young learners in China: Teaching English in China to Young Students (Parts I, II, & III)

On Being a Good Foreign English Teacher in China

I would also suggest China's Education System, Chinese Students, and the Foreign English Teacher.

If you have no knowledge of EFL teaching, then I highly recommend Dr. Greg's China TEFL Primer as well.

Best of luck in Nanjing.