In many African countries today, English is used as the main language of instruction in schools. This means that subjects like mathematics, science, and social studies are taught in English. But many learners and even some teachers still struggle to speak, understand, read, and write in English. So, how can we help both teachers and learners do better in using English in the classroom? This blog post will share simple, effective, and friendly English teaching methods that teachers in African classrooms can use to improve learning. These methods are especially useful in primary and secondary schools, where learners are still growing their English skills. We will also give links to helpful resources and examples to make the ideas more practical.
1. Use Simple English for Instructions
One of the best ways to help learners understand is to speak in clear and simple English. Avoid long or difficult sentences. Instead, use short sentences and familiar words.
For example:
- Say: "Open your books on page 10."
- Instead of: "I would like you all to proceed to the tenth page of your textbooks."
Why this works:
Learners do not waste time trying to understand the teacher's words. They focus more on the lesson.
Tip: Use the same words for instructions every day, like:
- "Listen carefully."
- "Repeat after me."
- "Write this in your book."
2. Teach Vocabulary Before the Lesson
Before teaching a subject like science in English, first teach learners the key words they will meet.
Example:
If the topic is about "plants," first teach words like: root, stem, leaf, flower.
How to teach vocabulary:
- Show pictures or real things (realia).
- Use flashcards.
- Use gestures.
- Say the word and let learners repeat.
Link: British Council - Vocabulary Teaching Tips
3. Use Songs, Chants, and Rhymes
Learners, especially in lower levels, enjoy music. Use songs to teach English words, grammar, and sounds.
Example:
Use the song "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" to teach body parts.
Why this helps:
- Songs improve listening.
- Songs make lessons fun.
- Learners remember better through rhythm.
Rwandan Example:
Use a simple chant like:
"This is my book, it is blue, I read my book, what about you?"
4. Practice Speaking Every Day
Give learners time to speak English every day. This helps them build confidence.
Ideas:
- Daily greetings in English.
- Ask 3–5 learners to say something every lesson.
- Let them talk in pairs: "What did you eat?" "I ate rice."
Simple speaking routines:
- "How are you today?"
- "What is the date?"
- "What did you learn yesterday?"
Internal link: Simple English Greetings for Rwandan Learners
5. Use Pictures, Charts, and Visual Aids
English is easier to understand when learners see what you are talking about.
Ideas:
- Draw on the chalkboard.
- Use posters.
- Show short videos (even without sound).
Why visual aids help:
- They explain meaning without too many words.
- They help learners remember.
Free resource: Kibera Resource Centre’s Visual Teaching Aids
6. Encourage Peer Support and Group Work
Let learners help each other. When they work in groups or pairs, they learn faster.
How to use group work:
- Pair a strong learner with a weak one.
- Let them explain answers to each other.
- Do short role-plays in English.
Rwandan classroom tip:
Create small groups of 4 and give each group a role:
- Reader
- Writer
- Speaker
Timekeeper
7. Correct Mistakes in a Friendly Way
Do not laugh at or shame learners when they make mistakes. Mistakes are part of learning.
What to do instead:
- Repeat the correct sentence kindly.
- Write correct answers on the board.
- Praise effort, not just correct answers.
Friendly correction example:
Learner: "She go to school."
Teacher: "Yes, she goes to school. Let’s all say: she goes."
8. Use Real-Life Contexts
Teach English using situations learners know well. This makes the language meaningful.
Examples:
- At the market: seller and buyer.
- In the home: family roles.
- In school: teacher and learner conversations.
Activity idea:
Create a role-play of buying food. One learner is the seller, one is the buyer.
Internal link: Using Stories and Games to Teach Grammar
9. Include Reading Time and Simple Books
Reading helps improve vocabulary and grammar.
What to do:
- Read short stories together.
- Let learners read in pairs.
- Ask questions after reading.
Resources for free English stories:
10. Keep Learning as a Teacher
English changes all the time. New methods and tools are coming. As a teacher, keep learning.
Ideas:
- Join teacher WhatsApp or Telegram groups.
- Attend online webinars (British Council, ELT webinars).
- Read teaching blogs like Teach Smart Africa
Free training: British Council TeachingEnglish Free Courses
English is not just a subject. It is a tool for learning every other subject in many African schools. When learners understand English better, they also do better in science, math, and more. As teachers, our job is to make English simple, friendly, and fun.
Try some of these methods in your next class. Even one small change can help your learners grow. And remember—you are not alone. Let’s support each other in making African classrooms smarter, one English lesson at a time.
👉 For more teaching tips, visit TeachSmartAfrica.com
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