If you are an English teacher, you must have heard these questions asked rather frequently and I have too. Here is what you need to answer them.
Survival English
For those of your students that are only interested in basic communication while travelling survival English will do. They would only have to learn some basic vocabulary and the easiest grammar structures to get around simple dialogues.
Functioning English
Provide your students that are only interested in communicating at work with enough knowledge to have conversations. This will work even if their grammar, pronunciation, and spelling aren’t perfect.
Proficient English
Now, for your students that wish to become entirely bilingual, you will have to make sure they learn everything the language is made up of. From grammar structures to vocabulary, pronunciation, and slang, your teaching program should combine all elements to make them entirely fluent.
Is it Easy?
While the English language isn’t the hardest one to learn, your students will have to apply themselves and practice what you teach them frequently. Thus, they will achieve the level they want to have.
As seen here, it all depends on the level of fluency your students wish to achieve. By ascertaining this, you will be able to adapt your teaching methods accordingly. Another factor to keep in mind is the fluency of your student before getting started.
Needless to say, a student who are more fluent will have little to no difficulty in honing their skills. On the other hand, a learner with no prior experience with English may find it more difficult and may require additional resources and guidance.
At the end of the day, it is in the teacher’s hands to make the subject matter as simple and engaging as possible. By connecting with your students, you will be able to make the learning process both fun and easy.