Blake Winter English
About
I have been teaching ESL for over 20 years, to students of all ages, nationalities, backgrounds, and learning goals. As a writer with a BA in Literary English, I can help native speakers polish their work as well.
Seeing improvement! I like it when students can confidence and start to see the results of their hard work. Being a part of that journey is the reward.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I evaluate the student's current English language abilities and explain to the student their strengths and weaknesses. Together we discuss the needs and goals of the student and we work out a suitable schedule and timeline to reach these goals. As the lessons continue, we make sure clear progress is being made toward the student's goals and make adjustments as needed.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have taught as an ESL instructor at various companies in both Japan and here in San Diego, California. Additionally I have held curriculum development and academic director roles and coordinated programs for children (6-12) teenagers (13-17) and mature adults (over 50). References available on request.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing for my lessons depends on each student's individual plan for English development. I can arrange half-hour, full hour, or multiple hour sessions depending on student needs and abilities. All my lessons include materials for the student and can be conducted at almost any location.
How did you get started teaching?
After finishing college, I wanted to return to Japan (where I did an exchange program during high school), and I couldn't afford an extensive vacation, so I applied to the JET program, which led me to my first opportunity teaching at a small, rural, junior high school. I also got to coach some girls softball!
What types of students have you worked with?
Everyone from everywhere. I have taught 3 year olds and 83 year olds, complete beginners (A, B, and C) and proficient near-masters; people from Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, Europe, Canada, Russia, Mongolia-- you name it! I can teach any type of English (Academic, Test Preparation such as TOEFL/IELTS/TOEIC, Business, Art & Culture, History, Food & Culinary Arts, Environmental Studies).
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Anytime I camp or hike, with my family, alone, with friends, or in a large group I really get something wonderful from being out in nature.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Feel free to ask a lot of questions and always re-evaluate what your goals are. Each student has his or her own way of learning and studying. It is important to find a teacher that understands how you work and can design the most effective path forward for you. Students usually don't have any time to waste, so make each lesson count.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
You should evaluate your student methods. How motivated are you? How much additional time can you spend on self-study? Can you take a slower approach to learning, or do you need to get on the fast track? If you know yourself, you will have a better idea of the kind of teacher you are looking for.