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Maricarmen Estrada M I don't know. I have a printed edition. But it's been totallly worth it because I have gone back to this book many times to reread chapters and just c…more I don't know. I have a printed edition. But it's been totallly worth it because I have gone back to this book many times to reread chapters and just check references and ideas. (less)

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May 10, 2014 Buck rated it it was ok

Sad to say, but I've lived more intimately with this book than just about any other in my life. I used Learning Teaching on a daily basis in Korea, where I spent a couple of years instilling the finer points of EFL pedagogy into trainee teachers to whom the finer points of the English language were themselves a little murky. But Koreans always make up in enthusiasm what they lack in know-how, so I have no complaints there. As for Learning Teaching, it's not a bad resource. I mean, it'll still su Sad to say, but I've lived more intimately with this book than just about any other in my life. I used Learning Teaching on a daily basis in Korea, where I spent a couple of years instilling the finer points of EFL pedagogy into trainee teachers to whom the finer points of the English language were themselves a little murky. But Koreans always make up in enthusiasm what they lack in know-how, so I have no complaints there. As for Learning Teaching, it's not a bad resource. I mean, it'll still suck a little joy out of your soul every day, like most textbooks, but at least it won't lead you into the arid wastes of Jeremy Harmer's How to Teach English , where passion goes to die (in the withered arms of hope). Unfortunately, there are certain brute, existential facts about teaching that even the best training manual won't address, because to do so would undermine both its own raison d'etre and the tacit assumptions behind the whole education racket.

In job interviews over the years, I've often been asked to outline my teaching philosophy. There are two basic approaches to this question: there's the 'correct' one, composed of whatever bland and reassuring jargon you've picked up from books like Learning Teaching, and then there's the truth. Of course, you can never tell the truth in a job interview, but you can sometimes tell it on the Internet. I'm going to tell the truth here.

For me, teaching has always been a form of seduction. Now, just in case my boss ever stumbles onto Goodreads, I'll add that this seduction ought to remain purely (and non-actionably) metaphorical. There's a real conquest involved—if you're doing it right—but it's mostly a moral conquest, even before it becomes an intellectual one. When you walk into a classroom and get your first look at the lumpish human material you've been fated to work with—mere swaying slabs of boredom, nervousness or hostility, as the case may be—your overriding concern is simply to win those people over, to get them on your side. To do this, you need to draw on the same inner resource used by salesmen, pickup artists, entertainers and similar lowlifes: i.e. charisma. Authority and expertise are nice too, but they only come into play later on, once you've sold them on whatever jerry-rigged classroom persona you've outfitted yourself with.

Jim Scrivener, the author of Learning Teaching, naturally avoids the word 'seduction', but he does acknowledge that good teaching boils down to a cluster of winning personality traits such as empathy, honesty, a sense of humour etc. Where he goes wrong—where he gets downright mendacious—is in suggesting that all these qualities can be learned and improved upon by the diligent trainee. I don't have a lot of hard data to back me up here (any more than Scrivener does), but from what I've seen of humanity, things like empathy and honesty are, beyond the age of seven or so, pretty much innate. Either you empathize with others or you don't; either you're reasonably honest or you're a lying sack of shit; either you're naturally funny or you're Sinbad. Even assuming that lifelong, incremental progress is possible in some of these areas, it certainly won't come about by skimming Jim Scrivener's little handbook, or taking a TESOL class on weekends.

Teacher-training programs, then, are governed by the same cruel law as MFA programs: the really gifted students don't need them, and the really bad ones won't profit from them, but are nonetheless sent out into the world, shiny diplomas in hand, to sow boredom and confusion wherever they go. In my years of training teachers, I never saw a shitty one get good; all you can do is try to help them become a little less egregiously shitty. Now maybe that failure is down to my inadequacies as a trainer, but I sincerely doubt that an Albert Pujols, for instance, could teach the weak and uncoordinated how to crush a hanging breaking ball, or that Elizabeth Bishop could show the verbally inept how to spin out brilliant metaphors. A gift for teaching may not be as remunerative as the ability to hit a curveball or as exalted as the ability to write a beautiful sestina, but like those other talents, it has its source in some deep-seated mojo that can't be explained or passed on.

Despite my weary tone, I actually don't have a huge problem with mediocrity. Every profession is beset by mediocrity. It's the statistical mean to which human enterprise always regresses. I just have a small problem with covering it up and wishing it away. But then, my hunch is that these textbooks are usually written by teachers who are themselves mediocre. Most good teachers wouldn't bother, because they know that what makes them good is, ironically enough, the one thing they can't teach.

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Jul 29, 2011 Linda rated it really liked it

There are three books that are often cited as excellent introductions to the methodology of teaching English as a second language. One is a simple two day read, another is a theoretical treatise, and this one strikes a balance between the two. Scrivener covers all the practical information needed to begin the journey as a TEFL teacher, and does so in a clear and engaging way. The book also has many examples and samples of activities that can be used in the ESL classroom. I am starting the CELTA There are three books that are often cited as excellent introductions to the methodology of teaching English as a second language. One is a simple two day read, another is a theoretical treatise, and this one strikes a balance between the two. Scrivener covers all the practical information needed to begin the journey as a TEFL teacher, and does so in a clear and engaging way. The book also has many examples and samples of activities that can be used in the ESL classroom. I am starting the CELTA teacher training next week, and although I have heard nothing can fully prepare a student for CELTA, at least this book makes me FEEL confident. ...more

As someone going to be taking the CELTA course soon, this was put on my recommended reading list. All I can say is that this will be my bible during training (and possibly beyond). This demystifies everything to do with EFL teaching and really gives you a great starting point. If you have a TEFL or TESL and haven't come across this book yet, I can't recommend it enough! As someone going to be taking the CELTA course soon, this was put on my recommended reading list. All I can say is that this will be my bible during training (and possibly beyond). This demystifies everything to do with EFL teaching and really gives you a great starting point. If you have a TEFL or TESL and haven't come across this book yet, I can't recommend it enough! ...more

Excellent manual that I've just finished reading through. But doubtless, I'll be coming to it again and again. One of the best books of its kind. Excellent manual that I've just finished reading through. But doubtless, I'll be coming to it again and again. One of the best books of its kind. ...more

Aug 30, 2013 Silvia rated it liked it

we all started our teaching careers with the guide of this book

Apr 29, 2009 PurplyCookie rated it really liked it

A guidebook for ELT teachers, this is one of a series for teachers, trainers and academic managers which aims to promote development by dealing with professional topics in a personal way, in order to deepen understanding, raise self-awareness, and encourage self-direction and choice.

The book covers pretty all aspects of teaching, from the use of course books, planning a syllabus, getting meaning across, restricted practice and more. It is a thin book, so the coverage is introductory and definite

A guidebook for ELT teachers, this is one of a series for teachers, trainers and academic managers which aims to promote development by dealing with professional topics in a personal way, in order to deepen understanding, raise self-awareness, and encourage self-direction and choice.

The book covers pretty all aspects of teaching, from the use of course books, planning a syllabus, getting meaning across, restricted practice and more. It is a thin book, so the coverage is introductory and definitely not in-depth. The chapters are arranged in a logical, topical order, and you will get information and input on error correction, using time lines and more.

I recommend it highly if you have no experience in this field and are looking for a book to tell you more about the bricks and mortar of what you are actually getting yourself into, as it goes into plenty of detail about things you have never thought about before setting foot in a classroom on the teacher's end.

Book Details: Title Learning Teaching
Author Jim Scrivener
Reviewed By Purplycookie ...more

This is one of the better learning resources I have come across for teachers of English. Scrivener has mapped out every process you could want to explore in your teaching practice, and he grades his language for teachers entering this profession succinctly. His research has identified problems in the classroom, with learning and teaching, providing methodologies that limit these problems, as well as basics of classroom management and the implementation of learning theories. If you are planning t This is one of the better learning resources I have come across for teachers of English. Scrivener has mapped out every process you could want to explore in your teaching practice, and he grades his language for teachers entering this profession succinctly. His research has identified problems in the classroom, with learning and teaching, providing methodologies that limit these problems, as well as basics of classroom management and the implementation of learning theories. If you are planning to teach English, as a second language or even to native speakers, Learning Teaching is a valuable guidebook for planning and delivering dynamic lessons where everyone learns. ...more

Jan 04, 2013 Nick rated it it was amazing

Learning Teaching attempts to kill two birds with one stone - it aims to be an initial training handbook and also a guide to continuing teacher development - and it manages to do both better than many single-focussed books. The key to its success is its focus on practical advice. Throughout the different sections, it offers clear practical tips and hints on getting through a language teaching class with confidence. Highly recommended for anyone starting a certificate course in TEFL/TESOL as well Learning Teaching attempts to kill two birds with one stone - it aims to be an initial training handbook and also a guide to continuing teacher development - and it manages to do both better than many single-focussed books. The key to its success is its focus on practical advice. Throughout the different sections, it offers clear practical tips and hints on getting through a language teaching class with confidence. Highly recommended for anyone starting a certificate course in TEFL/TESOL as well as new and practising teachers. Everyone will find something of value in these pages, which are likely to become the most well-worn in any teacher's library. ...more

Dec 22, 2010 Julia rated it it was amazing

I recently picked up this book and was very impressed! I am a teacher trainer and teach many of the concepts in this book. I found it well laid out, informative, and an all around great resource. It includes a wonderful mixture of methodology as well as practical activities. It was very down to earth--something that English teachers whose native language is NOT English could understand. Very accessible and practical!

Highly recommend! I am very interested in the differences between 2nd and 3rd e

I recently picked up this book and was very impressed! I am a teacher trainer and teach many of the concepts in this book. I found it well laid out, informative, and an all around great resource. It includes a wonderful mixture of methodology as well as practical activities. It was very down to earth--something that English teachers whose native language is NOT English could understand. Very accessible and practical!

Highly recommend! I am very interested in the differences between 2nd and 3rd editions!

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May 01, 2012 Nire rated it it was amazing

I read this book because it is required reading for a course I am taking. I went into reading it expecting to be bored to tears (it is a textbook after all). However, it was one of the most intriguing and fascinating textbooks I've ever read. The principles and methods Scrivener describes for every facet of the EFL classroom had me envisioning how I could apply them to my own classroom. The DVD resource is extremely beneficial as well. I can't wait for school to start! I read this book because it is required reading for a course I am taking. I went into reading it expecting to be bored to tears (it is a textbook after all). However, it was one of the most intriguing and fascinating textbooks I've ever read. The principles and methods Scrivener describes for every facet of the EFL classroom had me envisioning how I could apply them to my own classroom. The DVD resource is extremely beneficial as well. I can't wait for school to start! ...more

Mar 08, 2011 yengyeng rated it really liked it

Prescribed pre-course reading. This is especially useful for trainee teachers without any classroom experience because it explains how a lesson is planned and conducted. However, theory can only take you so far. It does not replace practicum. That said, I am glad I have Scrivener to turn to when I am struggling with my lesson plan.

Good beginners book or refresher book for Teachers of ESL or TESOL... whatever, We used it in our Cert. course and I highly recommend its practical usefulness!

Mar 09, 2014 Jen rated it really liked it

Came across this in my CELTA course a few years back. One that I continue to refer to over the years.

I won't be the first one to say that this book is a must-read for all language teachers. It takes language teaching as a whole, from all possible angles, eg What is a teacher, Teaching grammar, lexis, pronunciation, productive/receptive skills, what to do if you have 10 minutes left at the end of the class (I found the section 'Fillers' extremely helpful), using software in the class, different classes (CLIL, EAP, ESP). I read this book completely three months after CELTA, I wish I had read it b I won't be the first one to say that this book is a must-read for all language teachers. It takes language teaching as a whole, from all possible angles, eg What is a teacher, Teaching grammar, lexis, pronunciation, productive/receptive skills, what to do if you have 10 minutes left at the end of the class (I found the section 'Fillers' extremely helpful), using software in the class, different classes (CLIL, EAP, ESP). I read this book completely three months after CELTA, I wish I had read it before, it would have saved me so much trouble. Here are some captures I found worth quoting:

"In order to grow (as a teacher), we need to remain open to the possibility of change".

"A centimetre of input; a metre of practice".

"Don't over-help. The learning is often in the struggle. Don't feel you have to save them from every difficulty".

"In looking for ways to move forward as a teacher, you will also find ways to grow as a person".

"What you tell me, I forget; what I discover myself, I remember".

and the most vital for me -

"Work with - rather than in front of - your students. Don't feel the need to be the presenter or entertainer at the front of the class all the time. More a colleague in the next seat".

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May 09, 2014 Robert Stewart rated it did not like it

I've been an EFL teacher in Brazil for 29 years now. When I worked at schools, this book was used in dozens of teachers' meetings and other courses by people who saw it as a sort of teaching Bible. I absolutely detested the sessions and the book itself. Bubbling with drivel and abounding in nonsense, this is one that I will happily leave to gather dust. The problem with people who write books like this and give courses using it is that they haven't been in a real classroom for decades. At one bo I've been an EFL teacher in Brazil for 29 years now. When I worked at schools, this book was used in dozens of teachers' meetings and other courses by people who saw it as a sort of teaching Bible. I absolutely detested the sessions and the book itself. Bubbling with drivel and abounding in nonsense, this is one that I will happily leave to gather dust. The problem with people who write books like this and give courses using it is that they haven't been in a real classroom for decades. At one boring course in 1998, when the lecturer was trying to impart to us her enthusiasm for one of the pointless "tips" given in this book, I interrupted her to ask when was the last time she had actually taught real students. "In 1971," she said proudly. I guess that just about says it all. Another instructor, who used "isn't it?" as a question tag for everything (This would be helpful, isn't it? I know you all enjoy this, isn't it?) was another big fan, who seemed to delight in having a native writer lend creedence to her stupid ideas. Give me David Crystal any day. ...more

Often introduced as a primer for anyone intent on taking TEFL or TESOL certificates, this book is not perfect, but helps clear out doubts and misconceptions. In comparison with books by Harmer or Thornbury, it is much more intuitive in structure, less anecdotal and usually easier to read. Once you start teaching and embrace the daily complexities of imparting knowledge of a language you probably know little about, this book becomes a useful companion. You'll love the variety of techniques and th Often introduced as a primer for anyone intent on taking TEFL or TESOL certificates, this book is not perfect, but helps clear out doubts and misconceptions. In comparison with books by Harmer or Thornbury, it is much more intuitive in structure, less anecdotal and usually easier to read. Once you start teaching and embrace the daily complexities of imparting knowledge of a language you probably know little about, this book becomes a useful companion. You'll love the variety of techniques and the logical explanations of what you have to do and why you have to do it. That's fair enough, however, what you'll remember most is the humanistic tone and reassuring voice that keeps you on track and lifts your spirits when you fail to understand what you are doing in class. That being said, this book guides you with complete honesty towards learning teaching. ...more

This is a great introductory book for English language teachers. Some of the ideas might be challenged by more experienced teachers, but it is a great way to start asking some questions and to familiarise with some key aspects of language learning.
The DVD is very useful as it shows some of the techniques mentioned in the book in practice.

Feb 24, 2009 Kristen rated it liked it

Recommended to Kristen by: TFLI

Good introduction that I suspect will be a good reference. And, bonus, British author so fun little phrases.

A bit wordy but many wonderful teaching ideas.

Sep 20, 2014 Tom Riordan rated it it was amazing

This book was pretty comprehensive. It helped to reinforce a lot of the things I learned in the CELTA course I just took.

Feb 15, 2016 Cassell rated it it was amazing

Excellent handbook of good ideas for interactive English language teaching. Solid theory and related activities.

This certainly was the best introduction to teaching (not just languages and English in particular), covering so many aspects of teaching that it blew my head off. I highly recommend it.

Jim Scrivener's writing is accessible to read, but he also challenges you with the amount of content he presents you, if you want to be a good English teacher. His approach is methodical, but he doesn't shy away from presenting alternative approaches to teaching.

His main goals are several: 1) to teach teachers to

This certainly was the best introduction to teaching (not just languages and English in particular), covering so many aspects of teaching that it blew my head off. I highly recommend it.

Jim Scrivener's writing is accessible to read, but he also challenges you with the amount of content he presents you, if you want to be a good English teacher. His approach is methodical, but he doesn't shy away from presenting alternative approaches to teaching.

His main goals are several: 1) to teach teachers to be attentive to their students' needs and encourage them to study on their own with confidence; 2) to train teachers in various ways to always be prepared to manage students in a positive environment with honest feedback, and, of course 3) to present all the necessary English knowledge and skills in a comprehensive manner. Don't kid yourself, this is a serious book about serious teaching.

I can't imagine finding another book that blends extensive English teacher's knowledge with the necessary social skills to transmit this knowledge not only successfully, so that different students with a variety of goals achieve them, but also turn teachers and students into friends, while still retaining professional boundaries.

I wandered off a bit, but the fact is that Jim Scrivener is a terrific professional writer, who's down-to-earth as well. Such combination is hard to find and that is why I'm impressed :)

I highly recommend it to all aspiring English teachers. Just leaf through some of the pages to discover the truth yourself.

5 ✨

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Jun 03, 2018 Sandy Millin rated it it was amazing

This is an excellent beginner's guide to teaching English as a foreign language, including examples of classroom situations, activity ideas and reflection tasks with commentaries. It is very readable, and the author's voice is very strong - it often feels like Jim is directly addressing the reader. It's also very practical, and now that I've read it from cover to cover I know that I'll be referring my trainees to it much more frequently! This is an excellent beginner's guide to teaching English as a foreign language, including examples of classroom situations, activity ideas and reflection tasks with commentaries. It is very readable, and the author's voice is very strong - it often feels like Jim is directly addressing the reader. It's also very practical, and now that I've read it from cover to cover I know that I'll be referring my trainees to it much more frequently! ...more

Mar 15, 2020 Eman Ismael rated it really liked it

I haven't read many books about teaching yet, but I am sure that this book will be and remain one of the best, it is detailed and covers nearly everything from A to Z, from language itself to every aspect of teaching, which is really beneficial for every teach seeks professional development, where he is a junior or a senior.
I haven't read many books about teaching yet, but I am sure that this book will be and remain one of the best, it is detailed and covers nearly everything from A to Z, from language itself to every aspect of teaching, which is really beneficial for every teach seeks professional development, where he is a junior or a senior.
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Apr 09, 2019 Ne'Hmat rated it it was amazing

It's an amazingly wonderful ,tremendously beneficial for any teacher .As I've known in Britain is considered the constitution of teaching,yes it IS.
I've learned a lot from it .Thank you Jim Skrivner

I read this book as a requirement of my CELTA course it was a wonderful book which taught me many useful things about being a successful English teacher. A must read books for all in the English language industry.

Head of Teacher Development for Bell. Author for Macmillan and OUP.

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