We're delighted to recognise Kedir Botamo Adem from Ethiopia as our TeachingEnglish Community of Practice Member of the Month. Throughout July, Kedir actively contributed to community discussions, sharing thoughtful reflections and practical ideas that enriched conversations around subject knowledge, language-rich learning environments, and teacher development.
Kedir's contributions stood out for their focus on creating meaningful opportunities for language learning beyond the classroom and supporting teachers to strengthen their professional practice through collaboration and continuous learning.
About Kedir
Kedir Botamo Adem is a Lecturer in the Department of English Language and Literature at Gambella University, Ethiopia, and serves as Director of the English Language Improvement Center (ELIC). In this role, he leads initiatives aimed at improving the quality of English language teaching and learning through teacher development, student engagement and collaboration.
Kedir holds a Master's degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) and has taught English at primary, secondary and university levels. His professional interests include English language education, the use of AI in language teaching, translanguaging, teacher professional development and indigenous language studies. He is particularly passionate about promoting inclusive language-learning environments and sharing practical ideas with fellow educators.
Kedir's Top Teaching Tips
Drawing on his experience as an English language educator and teacher trainer, Kedir shares five practical tips for teachers looking to strengthen their subject knowledge and classroom practice:
1. Make language learning meaningful
Relate language learning to authentic communication by designing activities that require learners to use English to solve problems, express ideas and communicate effectively.
2. Create language-rich environments
Encourage language use beyond the classroom through English clubs, debates, reading clubs and discussion groups where learners can practise English regularly.
3. Build on learners' prior knowledge
Connect lessons to learners' existing experiences and knowledge to make learning more relevant, engaging and accessible.
4. Use continuous assessment
Regular questioning, feedback, reflection and short classroom activities can help teachers monitor learner progress and adapt their teaching accordingly.
5. Never stop learning
Teachers can strengthen their expertise by participating in professional learning communities, engaging in continuous professional development and reflecting on their teaching practice.
'To me the need for subject knowledge can not bound only to have necessary knowledge to deliver contents effectively. It is also necessary to broaden our understanding of the globe. Meaning the combination of subject knowledge might help us to understand the world even better'. - Kedir Botamo Adem