Teaching Technique
Learning English was such a challenge for me that when I began teaching
Italian I resolved to make it as easy as possible for my students.
I researched many approaches to foreign language teaching,
with particular focus on how people learn. I wanted to make
the process easy and fun for my students, and I believe I succeeded.
At the Award Ceremony for Teaching Excellency at the New School, the
[ex] President said, “Among the many letters of recommendation we
received one says, ‘Caterina makes learning Italian as easy as
drinking a glass of water.’ ”
When teaching I have 3 goals in mind:
- Make it easy
- Make it fun
- Make it effective
I want
my students to acquire the language (not just verb conjugations) and
be able to communicate meaningfully. My classes are very
interactive and I deeply care about their progress.
Here
are some comments from my students’ evaluations this past semester:
“I love your class because it’s
so much fun.”
“I enjoy the class because the activities we do are always a
surprise.”
“Your class is a pleasure and it’s the highlight of my week.”
“Every Wednesday I rush to your class after work because I LOVE
IT!”
“Thank you for everything. I hope I will remember what I
learned in your class throughout
my life.”
“I am amazed at how much I can say after only one semester.”
Click here to download a PowerPoint Lesson Sample of orginial material
by Caterina Bertolotto and Alessandra Seggi
Teaching Resume
Caterina Bertolotto graduated from the University of Torino, Italy. She
earned nine certificates in different language teaching
methodologies and received a Distinguished University Teaching Award
from the New School in New York City.
Caterina is the published author of four books and a double CD, and
has taught seven Seminars for teachers of language.
For over 20 years, she has taught Italian at The New School, NYC,
and served as Italian Program Coordinator and trainer. She is now in
charge of Special Programs.
Caterina has also taught undergraduates at Sarah Lawrence College,
Montclair State University, Pratt Institute, Eugene Lang and Baruch
College.