In my lessons, I focus mainly on practical communication – speaking, real-life situations, but also cultural context. I adapt the teaching to what you need to master in Czech. Want to know more? Read on.
We will talk a lot in the lessons.
Students need mainly to talk. So that we can devote as much time as possible to this in the lesson, you are given homework. You read, listen or do exercises at home – and one more thing: you write by hand, because it improves learning.
We will speak Czech, you can handle it.
As soon as possible, I am speaking with students in lessons only in Czech. For some it's earlier, for some we help each other a little with English, but eventually you'll all get it done - and then you'll get better and better.
How to really speak and write
To communicate, it is more important to know how people actually speak, not what manuals and dictionaries say. That is why I often work with Czech National Corpus. I want you to know that in reality, no one uses standard Czech all the time.
Not only language, but also culture
Knowing declensions and conjugations is certainly good, but even more important is knowing when to say what – and what not to say. That's why we also deal with cultural differences: how to greet, what is polite, how to behave in different environments etc.
Tailor-made lessons
What do you need for work? What do you enjoy? What exams do you want or have to take? I use most often textbook Czech step by step or series Czech for Foreigners, but I am adding movies or by, what do you need. Don't be afraid to come up with your own materials!
Grammar briefly and clearly
Grammar not everything, but is needed – and you must be patient, repeat and practice. I try to present it briefly and clearly and my explanation you will also find on YouTube, so that you can remind yourself or study what you need at the moment.
Language is not a table in Excel
Some students like to ask "But why?". But language is not mathematics – 100% does not have logical rules. It is influenced by too many factors: context, situation, historical development and tradition, but also intonation, associations... So don't be angry when I say: "That's just the way it is."
What I offer
Czech for Life
Where do you need to use Czech in your life? In a shop? In a restaurant? At the post office? At the office? Do you want to talk to colleagues, friends or your partner's family? I will help you practice and gain more self-confidence.
Czech for Studies & Work
Do you need Czech for school or work? Do you want to practice presenting or discussing, writing academic texts or emails? You will try it out in the lessons – and then you will be able to do it in the real world.
Preparation for Exams
Do you want to obtain permanent residence or citizenship in Czechia? Or study at a university? Do you need a certificate for work? You will see what the exam looks like, what strategies to use and practice especially writing and speaking.
My Own Materials
I have created several e-books, many educational videos, episodes of a podcast and worksheets. I regularly create online videos, interactive exercises, games and tests to help you learn outside of class – effectively and in a fun way.
