It’s time to step into your exchange student’s shoes. Imagine living with a host family in Greece, China or Ethiopia. They welcome you and then start chattering away in their language while you struggle to understand. How might you feel?
What is the problem? It can be difficult to keep up with native speakers (of any language) when you are a non-native speaker. They don’t just talk fast. They often use expressions that you haven’t learned yet. This is a challenge that most foreign exchange students experience, even if they speak English.
What’s the solution? Easy English. This means speaking in ways that make it easy for a foreigner to understand. It is especially important when we are discussing important topics like rules, instructions, problems, solutions, requests and feedback. Here’s how it works:
Use short, simple sentences. Substitute complex words with simple words. For instance, instead of saying “facilitate,” say “help”.
Clear, slower speech not only makes it easier to understand, but also gives non-native speakers time to process your words.
Expressions like “hit the ground running” or “take it with a grain of salt” may confuse non-native speakers who aren’t familiar with these sayings.
Beware: Your student might think they understand when they don’t. Therefore, instead of asking yes/no questions like, “Do you understand?” Try asking open-ended questions like “What time and where are we meeting today?”
If your student doesn’t understand, try rephrasing rather than repeating the same words. Different phrasing can sometimes make your message clearer.
Are you talking about your house rules? Give examples of situations where they might apply. Explaining household chores? Give your student a demonstration to show exactly how you want things done. And remember, a picture is worth a thousand words (and that includes simple sketches and mind maps).
Save precious time by...slowing down the entire communication process. Take the time to be sure your student truly understands key messages.
Instead of delivering all information at once, break it down into manageable chunks. This allows non-native speakers to follow along better and digest each part.
Put key information (like rules, chores and action plans) in writing so your student has time to review, reflect and come up with questions for you.
After you explain something, give your student a summary of the main points or, even better, ask your student to summarize. “So, now I want to be sure everything is clear. What is the plan for this weekend?”
Let’s return to your imaginary exchange with a family in Greece, China or Ethiopia. Think about how it feels to plunge into a world where familiar language and cues are no longer reliable. This is precisely what your student is experiencing while they get used to English as it is spoken by real natives.
As you practice "Easy English," you’re building a foundation of mutual understanding that goes way beyond language. You are setting the stage to learn and grow together. And that is what cultural exchange is all about.
Enjoy the journey!