Real Life Lessons

I’ve never been one to rely too heavily on textbooks in my classes. While they have their place, I find that real learning happens when we talk about real life. My students bring so many experiences, challenges, and stories into the classroom that it would feel wrong to put them aside and open a book instead.

We talk about what’s actually going on in their lives — whether it’s preparing for an event, sharing memories from a recent holiday, or discussing a work issue. Sometimes, it’s even about a personal problem they’re facing. These conversations are authentic and meaningful, and from them, we can explore grammar, vocabulary, and communication naturally. When language grows out of lived experience, it sticks — because it matters.

When we talk about what’s really going on, people forget they’re “studying English”. They’re just communicating – and that’s when the real progress happens and fluency and confidence grow. We laugh together, we think together and sometimes we share very moving moments.

One story that has touched me deeply recently is from one of my students, Christoph. He was found to be a perfect match for a blood stem cell donation and travelled to Nuremberg last week to donate. We talked a lot about it in his English lesson — about the process, the emotions, and the incredible gift he’s giving to hopefully save the life of someone with blood cancer. It’s not just a language topic; it’s a lesson in humanity, courage, and kindness, and has moved me greatly.

Moments like these remind me why I teach the way I do. Language isn’t just grammar and vocabulary; it’s connection, empathy, and understanding. When students share real parts of their lives, we all learn something — not just English, but something about what it means to be human. And it can be fun too of course!

And to Christoph — I just want to say what you’ve done is really inspiring. Thank you for reminding us what generosity truly looks like and hoping others will feel motivated to register too. (www.dkms.de).