Although classes are taught completely in English, knowing some Spanish can be helpful but is not required. The goal of the program is to facilitate proficiency in listening, speaking and understanding through "conversational English". This is best accomplished by total immersion, using native English teachers no matter what the student's current capabilities.
We provide the basic curriculum and lesson plans to teach the fundamentals of English and the basic materials for classroom operation. Your own personal experiences and ideas can also be incorporated into the lesson plans. Teaching materials will be provided by the school or donated by sponsors. We invite you to bring from your own country any teaching aids, games, toys, construction paper or other things that you might think helpful.
The English teachers from Make a Difference Abroad are placed in elementary and public middle schools where they teach English in the morning or afternoon to teenagers and children from 6 to 15 years old. As a teacher you will work 4 to 6 hours a day, five days a week, Monday – Friday. The schedule depends upon the placement of the teacher.
The courses are either part of the children’s regular course work or will be incorporated into other activities. English teachers will assist each other in developing lesson plans, leading classes and implementing interactive learning activities such as games, shows and songs. We require a willingness to learn and give it your best.
Once you have arrived in the country you will be given 2 days of intensive training by our staff, after that, they will be glad to give you their professional advice and assistance any time you need it. This will help you to improve your skills and methodological techniques and help to make your time as a volunteer an experience to remember forever.
