What makes English hard for adults?
- Old habits drive 90% of outcomes. Past classroom experiences (being corrected mid‑sentence, harsh feedback) linger and shape behaviour.
- Fear of writing is common. Learners have ideas and words but hesitate, expecting criticism.
Create safety first
- Let learners finish full sentences/paragraphs; then give feedback.
- Use “sandwich” feedback (praise → suggestion → praise). Avoid “but”; try “you could also consider…”.
- Preserve face. When commenting in class, generalise to the group or use third‑person examples.
- Delay correction during speaking/writing tasks; correct afterwards with focus.