There are several questions that come to my mind every time that I see ads, videos, and comments that promote nativespeakerism. I’m an advocate of critical thinking and I’m against nativespekerim and any form of discrimination.
Today I’ll start a thread of thought provoking posts with a public apology.
My dear English students,
I would encourage you to start questioning the ads of teachers and influencers who make you feel inferior, broken, unworthy, incapable and unintelligent just because of your English level or your accent.
You are capable of achieving great things. Don’t let anyone decide what you should say and how you should sound.
If I ever made you feel like that, I want to take this moment to apologize. If you have ever been humiliated or mistreated by an English or any other language teacher, I just want to say: ‘Forgive us. I’m deeply sorry for the pain you had to endure’
Don’t let anyone stop you becoming the best version of yourself.
I hope you achieve all your goals. I encourage you to speak like you and let others hear your voice.
With much love,
Julieta
P.S. You are worthy.
Do you think that speaking like a native is better than speaking normal English?/ Why? Why not?
Do you think that you will never speak English fluently?
It’s time to change your mindset. Your mindset is your way of thinking and the opinion that you have about your learning process. If you have a fixed mindset, then you are not open to change or improvement. If you have a growth mindset, it means you are open to change; therefore, you can improve.
If you want to improve your English and speak fluently, you must have a growth mindset. Below there is a list of 6 powerful affirmations that will help you grow your mind.
Growth Mindset
1. It’s okay to make mistakes because I’m learning
There is no need to say that when we are learning to do something new, we often make mistakes. Actually, making mistakes is part of our learning process. Mistakes can teach us valuable lessons. So, next time you make a mistake, relax and say calmly: “It’s okay, because I’m learning English”.
2. My English level and my accent don’t define my intelligence
Some people really believe that the only way to prove that they are intelligent is by speaking a foreign language flawlessly. Your level of intelligence has nothing to do with your accent. Be proud of your English level and work hard to achieve your learning goals.
3. I’m open to learning from qualified and caring teachers
A caring and qualified teacher is the best person to help you improve your English. Many learners believe that native speakers are the only ones that can teach them “good English”. Guess what? Qualified teachers know how to teach good English, regardless of their nationality. Qualified teachers have to go to College to learn how to teach the language. On top of that they are constantly taking professional development courses to help their students learn better. They know what exactly you need to overcome your mistakes, fears and challenges in English. Instead of looking for a native speaker, look for a qualified ESL/EFL teacher and let them help you. You can find thousands of native speakers to speak with them online for free. However, they don’t know how to teach their native language, they only know who to speak it. They don’t know how to answer grammar questions and most of the time they make you feel more confused.
4. I can handle any challenge before me
Yes! If you work hard and practice a lot you will overcome any obstacle. You need to realize that learning a new language requires time and perseverance. Don’t give up!
5. I will not let self doubt control my learning process
It’s normal to have doubts, fears and anxiety when we learn a new language. However, you are strong enough to overcome them. You are the one who is in control of your learning process.
6. I will believe in my capabilities. I can speak English!
You can learn new things. You are free to choose and make the right decisions. If something is too difficult or too challenging, you are intelligent enough to make a plan. Maybe you will have to review your vocabulary lists or your grammar notes. Maybe you will have to do more listening practice or learn something you were supposed to learn before but you didn’t. You are strong and capable of doing great things. YOU CAN SPEAK ENGLISH!
Teacher Julieta 