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What is a backward language lesson?

A backward language lesson is a custom lesson that is designed jointly by the teacher and student based on the student's interests, needs, and experiences. In a traditional lesson, the teacher chooses the topic and tells the student what they will study. In a backward lesson, most of your learning will take place outside of class time, through your day-to-day experiences in the world  as well as structured assignments. Class time is for asking questions, receiving feedback, and practicing what you have learned outside of class.

What can I expect from  backward language lessons?

Because each lesson is individualized, all lessons are different.

Examples of past lessons include:
  • Expressions/idioms (including when and how to use them in your own speech and writing)
  • Slang/vernacular (including whether each term is appropriate for use in different contexts)
  • Conversation (with continuous/live feedback)
  • Help understanding friends/coworkers/professors

What you will not use in this type of lesson:
  • English textbooks, tests, traditional homework (e.g. grammar worksheets)

What you can use in this type of lesson:
  • Rap songs
  • Real emails
  • Popular books/novels
  • Podcasts
  • Almost anything else you can think of that uses natural American English!
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Who should take backward language lessons?

Backward language lessons are recommended if you are:
  • Living, working, or studying in the US
  • Living, working, or studying with native speakers of English (particularly American English)
  • A teacher of English (TESOL/ESL/EFL) who is not a native speaker
  • An advanced English learner who wants to continue using the language after finishing traditional classes

This type of lesson is not appropriate for:
  • Beginner, intermediate, or upper intermediate English learners
  • Students who do not have regular contact with English
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Lessons for advanced learners of American English