Here you will find various activities and presentations that I have used in the classroom during my time working as a Language and Cultural Assistant in Madrid, Spain. I do not only include information that will be beneficial in English classes, but in physical education and art classes as well.
About Me.
Hi! My name is Allison, and I am currently working as a Language and Cultural Assistant. I teach and assist English, Art and Physical Education classes at a secondary school in Madrid, Spain.
I grew up in Morganton, North Carolina -- a small town that I bet you have never heard of. I dedicated most of my time to my studies and dance. During my senior year of high school, I spent a semester in Arica, Chile. I lived with a host family and attended a local school. Unfortunately, I experienced extreme culture shock and was miserable during most of my time there. However, this motivated me to continue traveling and living abroad because I realized that the more I did so, the easier it became.
After high school, I attended the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and graduated with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. During my junior year, I decided to go abroad once again, and I spent a semester studying in Seville, Spain.
After an amazing semester in Seville, I knew I wanted to return to Spain after graduating from university. Teaching English seemed like the way to go about doing so. I am currently in my second year of teaching, and I am loving every moment of it.
Some Advice for Language and Cultural Assistants
I have found that the more enthusiastic I am in the classroom (or on the outdoor courts), the more I enjoy my job and the more the students enjoy the lesson.
Try to learn all of your students names. They will definitely know yours. Communicate with the teachers! Ask them what you can do to improve and if there is anything else you can do to help.
Get to know your students. Class is a lot more fun for them when you adapt the lessons to their interests and personalities.
I know this is lame, but don't forget to smile! Students will not speak to you if they do not think you are interested and positive.