Cliff K. ESL tutor

Cliff K.

I did my undergraduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania and then went on to get my Master's degree from Columbia University. I have been an ESL tutor in Bergen County, New Jersey for the past 12 years. My students are adults who are at the advanced intermediate or advanced levels. As difficult as it is to learn a second language, I believe my students truly enjoy our classes together. I have a library of over 300 one to four page stories and essays where I have included definitions of words that might cause trouble. These are borrowed and returned with a chance to discuss them in class.

Our classes are a mix of grammar, vocabulary, slang and idioms, American culture, pronunciation (if necessary) and review of homework assignments, where you might write about anything from Tell me about your mother and father ; to What risks have you taken; to If you could go back in time, when would it be; to How does your husband drive you crazy. I have over 100, and none of them require research. From your writing, I can tell what areas we need to work on. Most important is that you get to speak at length with a native speaker.

I look forward to working with you in your home, at my office, or at a local library convenient to both of us. My students have included many nationalities, and working so close for 60 minute sessions, you really do become friends. I have my students make notes of anything they hear during the week that they might want explained to them. Americans don't always realize how often we use idioms and slang in our daily conversations. If you've been nervous when speaking to native English speakers, our lessons are an excellent opportunity to become relaxed. My students have also reminded me that when traveling internationally, being able to communicate in English is frequently more helpful than relying on their native language.