Who is looking for private language classes?

Throughout the past 20 years as an English teacher, I have had the pleasure of teaching all kinds of students, from all walks of life. However, I have managed to categorize them mostly into 5 groups and each have their ups and downs. Each groups represents a kind of students with a different kind of mindset and requires a different approach in the classroom. 

In this first article, I will delve into the 5 groups and some basics of each of them. I seepareted them into what drove them into the classroom and pushed them into acheiving their goals. 

Here are a some of the motivators I have seen most in my students. These haven't been ranked in any particular order and are simply the observations I've made along the years. 

Love of Pop Culture

Countless times I have had students who have come in to improve their language skills in order to understand their favorite artist better, or to play more videos games. Some have actually learned a lot on their own by watching a tv show and learning the lines to a favorite song. 

These kinds of students generally have a pretty good understanding of slang terms and can follow some conversations decently, but lack grammatical knowledge and precise vocabulary for more formal situations. 

Job Promotions

Many companies in my country offer bonuses and promotion opportunities for those who master another language,  especially English.  

Most students who seek classes because of a job opportunity are driven by career advancement and tend to invest a lot of time and money into perfecting their speech.  

However,  in these cases, it is very important to note that those who have to use the language for their profession tend to have a better development of their abilities.  Without practical usage, it is quite common for students to stagnate and have a tougher time moving forward. 

Mommy made Me

While these are not the most motivated students,  kids whose parents seek greater education for them tend to do very well over time. 

Adolescence is a great time for brain plasticity.  The mind is mature enough to understand complex systems,  but young enough to absorb large quantities of information and cement it into knowledge.  

Teenagers don't always want to participate,  but since they are still living in a student mindset,  they tend to learn even when they are adamantly trying to avoid it.  Of course, it's great that parents tend to reinforce study habits at home,  and so, even students running away from homework will generally get more practice at home because of their parents.  

Test Time

The last kinds of student I've seen frequently is the one up for some kind of testing which requires knowledge of English - be that a proficiency exam, a masters course or beyond. 

These students tend to take their studying very seriously and are very focused.  Most often,  they will not have a second shot at their exam and must ace it on the first go. 

These students do not necessarily have the best language skills,  but they are determined and this assists in their plight. Most often they reach their goals,  but it's important for us teachers to be open and honest about their starting levels and whether their time frame is truly possible. These kinds of students sometimes shoot for the moon but don't have sophisticated enough instruments to even reach the upper atmosphere. 

What about you? 

What are some student types you've dealt with in your teaching? Let me know in the comments below!

Miss Gaby