Lead-in. 50 Go over the humorous quotations below

50 Go over the humorous quotations below. As many a true word is spoken in jest, extract the bit of truth, if any, and share.

51 All of us have been to school. In the aftermath, some may look back to that time with scepticism, others with gratitude. Listen to three interviews by people sharing their memories of their favourite teachers. The third interviewee had two. Note down the bits that made those teachers pedagogues with a capital P.

52 Did you have a best teacher at school? What part did he/she play in your life (if at all)? In what way was he/she special?

53 Now it's about teaching again and you are about to listen to some advice for parents, who are always anxious about their toddler being already too old to start their English. Read the sentences below and, as you listen, jot down the missing information that could fit the gaps.

54 Refer to the tapescript at the end of the book and make a synopsis of the text in about 10-15 sentences. Then imagine that one day you find yourself on a call. The hosting family have a three-year-old child whom they are teaching some English. They are enthused about their experience, but, being lay people in TEFL[3], get it wrong. They want to ask you for your opinion, which will be much appreciated, but you must be unobtrusive and tactful in giving it. Now, how will you respond if the mother says the following:

… Sometimes we think that our child should follow in your steps and take an EFL degree. English is so important nowadays. But we aren't sitting idle, you know. Now and then we learn words together. He/she can already ask "When is the next train to Liverpool?" Can answer questions like "How old are you?". I usually ask him/her "What is the English for so-and-so?" and he will go like "a cup of coffee" or "whiskey and soda". So, we have made some progress already!