A few months ago, I was in a Linedance class — something I do regularly, both for fun and for focus. That evening, our instructor had to step out of the room briefly, and I happened to be the only one who knew the choreography for the next dance.
All eyes turned to me.
“Would you mind showing us the steps?”
I nodded. I knew them. [Mehr lesen…]
Have you ever found yourself at a loss for words during a high-pressure meeting or presentation? It’s not uncommon. Stress can significantly impair our ability to communicate effectively, especially in situations requiring fluency and clarity.
The Impact of Stress on Language
When we’re under pressure, our brain switches to survival mode. The stress hormone cortisol floods our system, disrupting cognitive functions and shifting resources away from the brain regions responsible for language. [Mehr lesen…]
I took up Line Dancing as a new hobby two years ago and I’ve been fascinated by it from the first session. Not only can I literally feel my brain cells working while learning a new choreography. It also lifts my mood within a few minutes into the movements - every time!
Ever noticed how ideas seem to flow more freely during a walk—or how a dance class leaves you not just energized, but mentally sharp? It’s not just your imagination. [Mehr lesen…]
A new perspective on language teaching
Coaching entered the world of language teaching a few years ago. I came across it only in April of 2019 because I had that growing feeling something was missing from my lessons. I was looking for ways to give all my learners the opportunity to improve their language skills. Even if their current level was low, if they were busy at work, if their motivation was low or if they found it difficult to connect with the new language. In order to maximize learning outcomes, I wanted to tackle the problem at its roots, where the learning happens. [Mehr lesen…]
How to fall in love with grammar
Reviewed by Vera Tillner
Following last month’s featured article about Neurolanguage Coaching, this month we highlight an exciting book about brain friendly grammar conversations.
There are many reasons why a teacher might feel negative about teaching grammar. Insecurity is one of them and is seen in both native and non-native speakers. Standing in front of a group and their learners expecting them to know terminology or the answer to a spontaneous question about grammar can be a pretty scary feeling. It is a moment when your brain goes blank and you lose your gut feeling for English. [Mehr lesen…]