Experience Summary
I grew up in a multi-cultural home, and I was exposed to foreign languages from a very young age and continuously throughout my childhood. We had a French exchange student spend 3 different summers with us, and I studied Spanish, French, and German in high school. Then, I began traveling frequently to Europe, culminating in my junior year in college Education Abroad Program in Bordeaux, France and Togo, West Africa. I have developed a great understanding and sensitivity towards cultural patterns of communication and behavior and my foreign language study has enabled me to decode and explain linguistic differences. Since 2002, I've been working in education as a substitute teacher and more recently as a full-time French teacher.
Teaching Style
Any child can learn a foreign language (FL). Math, science, literature, art, in fact, any subject, all use their own specific jargon. It is essential to not only make FL learning relevant, but also fun and interesting. In today's global, multi-cultural environment, and with the Internet linking us to anyone, anywhere instantly, American children need to have a solid foundation in at least one FL. Full immersion is the best way to acquire FL. Addressing multiple learning styles through the use of a variety or current media: songs, videos, magazines, Internet, books, newspapers, games, etc... can make FL learning interesting, fun, and relevant.