TEACHING ADULTS & KIDS ENGLISH AS A SECOND OR FOREIGN LANGUAGE Listening, speaking, reading and writing. General English - Business English Vocabulary - Grammar - Pronunciation

Find out more about Alexandra

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I developed an interest in teaching English as a second or foreign language and in private tutoring during my own English language studies. Over the course of six years, I had the opportunity to learn from American, Australian, and British teachers who inspired me in various ways, particularly through their pronunciation.
  At the age of nine, I would stand in front of the mirror, pretending to be a teacher and mimicking their accents.
  This experience sparked my passion for teaching and language learning, which I have included in my entrepreneurial journey.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  Since 2003, the United Kingdom has been my country of residence. As someone who once was a foreigner (originally i'm from Greece, I have gained a profound understanding of the learning needs of individuals from different cultures. I empathize with the challenges they face when speaking a foreign language and can truly relate to their experiences.
  As an ESL/EFL tutor, I focus on teaching both adults and children, with a particular emphasis on listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. My lessons cover general English as well as business English, incorporating conversations, grammar, pronunciation (including differences between British and American pronunciation), vocabulary enhancement with idioms and expressions, and reading and writing exercises. I enjoy discussing a wide range of topics with my students, such as current events, culture, and everyday situations. However, I may have a slight preference for conversations including idiomatic expressions.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Throughout my language learning journey, I had the privilege of learning from exceptional teachers from different English-speaking backgrounds. Each of them became a role model to me in their own unique way, especially through their pronunciation. Their influence inspired me to develop a transatlantic English pronunciation, often with elements of my Greek accent which I adapt based on the nationality of my students to assist them better.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  To be a good tutor, several qualities are important. Firstly, patience is crucial, as language learning can be a gradual process. Additionally, effective communication skills are essential for conveying information clearly and engaging students in meaningful conversations. Adaptability is also key, as every student has their own learning style and needs. A good tutor should be able to tailor their teaching methods accordingly. Finally, a genuine passion for teaching and a commitment to the success of each student are qualities that contribute to being a good tutor.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  My experience as a child, standing in front of the mirror, mimicking my teachers' pronunciations not only helped me improve my own English pronunciation, but it also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the impact that a teacher's guidance and support can have on a student's language learning journey. It motivated me to become a tutor and inspire my own students in similar ways.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  Teaching English as a second or foreign language comes with its challenges. One common difficulty is helping students overcome language barriers and develop fluency. Pronunciation can also be challenging, as different accents and phonetic sounds may vary across languages. Additionally, adapting to each student's learning style and addressing their individual needs requires flexibility and creativity. However, these challenges can be overcome by employing various teaching techniques and creating a supportive learning environment.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  In addition to my passion for teaching English, I am also enthusiastic about the fields of AI and digital art. Over the past four years, I have been exploring and experimenting in these areas, creating digital artwork that I showcase in online galleries.
  While I believe that "Art is the language of the soul", English and any other language is the vessel that carries our thoughts, emotions, and stories across the boundless canvas of human connection.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P) ?

  What makes me a superprof is my dedication to providing a personalized and engaging learning experience for each of my students. I continuously strive to improve my teaching methods, staying up-to-date with the latest resources and techniques in language education as well as technology.
  My ability to adapt my English pronunciation caters to the specific needs and backgrounds of my students, it's easier for them to understand me when I speak.