Our teaching method

What we are trying to achieve is for you to use your full potential and actively engage in studying a language during our course. Let us be honest – nobody has the magic power to teach you a foreign language without your input. Our teaching style supports you by helping you use your language skills regularly, so that you feel confident using the language in its written, read, spoken, and audio forms.

Teaching programme

Most of our programmes take a flexible approach to teaching. The courses focus on the needs of our students to use their language skills comprehensively (reading, writing, listening, speaking). We offer courses in English as well as other languages at all levels, from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2).

Way of teaching

Although we at International House Bratislava do not strictly follow a single teaching method, we are guided by the core principles of Communicative Language Teaching.

The core principles of Communicative Language Teaching:

• active participation of students in class
• use of the mother tongue is kept to a bare minimum – communication takes place in the target language at all levels
• inclusion of authentic language and materials in teaching
• integration of all language aspects into lessons: grammar, vocabulary, language functions, and skills development
• developing competence in every skill: reading, speaking, listening, and writing
• deepening communication skills with a focus on functional language – the communicative functions of phrases, sentence structures, and vocabulary in practical situations (e.g. expressing agreement, making suggestions, confirming information)
• focus on phonology to improve both listening skills and pronunciation
• presenting and practising grammar in connection with practical language and communication skills
• strengthening learner autonomy so that students can continue to develop their language skills independently
• focus on the practical use of language and the development of individual competences

 

Teachers

Our teachers are qualified, friendly, and experienced. They will guide you on how to improve your language skills comprehensively, are happy to answer any questions about your studies, take care of your progress, and always respect your opinions.

Courses

All courses take place in modern, well-equipped classrooms. During lessons, teachers use a variety of methods: role play, pair work, group work, and discussion. One-to-one lessons and small closed groups are also available on request.

Language level

We make sure that student groups are homogeneous and at a similar level. We use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). To find out your current level, you can use our skills-by-level table.