ESL Workbook Future Plans!

Around four or five years ago, I had the chance to visit South Korea with my family, but recently, I was able to have an entirely unique experience teaching South Korean elementary students online. This opportunity arose thanks to my family connections in Korea. I discovered this need when I reviewed my younger cousin's English homework and noticed that certain answers were marked incorrectly by her teacher, despite being accurate. Realizing that I could support these students, I began an English class for her and her friends, offering them the chance to improve their English skills over the summer.

Teaching these students was not only rewarding but also incredibly memorable. Beyond language lessons, I got to know them as individuals—their favorite foods, hobbies, colors, and more—which helped me build meaningful relationships that I hope to maintain as they grow older. One of the highlights of this experience was creating an ESL workbook tailored to their needs. This workbook evolved from their feedback on what they enjoyed or found challenging in their textbooks and in my lessons. With their insights, I was able to develop a resource that was genuinely aligned with their preferences and learning styles.

While my main goal was to provide them with ongoing English support, I also began thinking about the future. When I visit Korea next—whether for vacation or teaching—I plan to bring physical copies of the English Smart Start workbook I created. I imagine how meaningful it will be to finally meet these students in person, share signed copies of the workbook, and discuss how they’ve been able to grow by using English. Spending six to eight weeks with them online was a formative experience, and meeting them will bring this journey full circle.

Next summer, when I return to Korea to see my family, I’ll make a point to visit my students, bringing signed copies of the workbook for them to continue developing their skills. Their feedback has been instrumental in shaping my teaching approach, and as I continue refining these resources, I’m committed to making them even more effective and engaging based on their insights. This experience not only reinforced my passion for teaching but also highlighted the lasting connections that can be formed through language education.