An e-mail to the class.

Dear All,

You have an example of an e-mail to the class right now. I am using it to avoid giving you a lecturette on our last day. You are blessed for a moment with a reading pause which allows you to take these ideas at your own pace and not at mine.

Nine months have passed since our first lesson . I hope the academic  year has lived up to your expectations.  Personally, I should say that it was really good  to share experiences with you.  I know that some of you were eventually tempted to give up but, against all odds, you  kept on working hard. Thanks!

I firmly believe your feedback and participation will massively enlarge our understanding of learning. The more we share, the more we gain.  It is for this reason that I tried  opening up this channel of communication.  Blogs and  e-mail writing have been meant to improve our proficiency. As a one-to-one  activity, it enables individuals to have a voice in a different way from what they can achieve in the group. I do  appreciate your effort and commitment when dealing with these -for some of you- new tools. I am also glad you have shared with me how you have experienced the course.

However, it is time for you to sit  your writing exams. It is said that students’ progress and achievements constitute an unambiguous proof of the success/failure of teaching.  Evaluation proves to be an essential requirement for the success of the teaching and learning process. It enables students to be conscious of their progress, helping them to reflect on the most effective means to improve their learning. Evaluation also enables teachers to assess and, therefore, renovate the course planning, that is, methodology, units of work, use of materials and space arrangement, and students’ assessment. Evaluation is a major means to an end: the improvement of the overall teaching and learning process.

Most of you will be also taking the oral exam. Remember this is an opportunity for you to show  your knowledge, your speaking skills, as well as your ability to communicate.
Before the exam,   practise working with classmates or practice in front of a mirror, to evaluate yourself. It is advisable to maintain your self-confidence and composure. If you find yourself anxious, take several slow, deep breaths to relax. Please, don't talk about the test to other students just before entering the room: their anxiety can be contagious. Just two more tips: correct yourself if you make any mistakes and keep eye contact.

Last but not least: remind yourself that you are well-prepared and are going to do well.


With warm wishes,

Laura.