Language Skills
All TAs (Conversation and Analysis instructors) are expected to be able to teach at any of the four class levels offered in the LLP. Prospective TAs are interviewed to ascertain their level of competence in the language they wish to teach. At the discretion of the LLP, native speakers may be exempted from an interview.
Conversation Sections
TAs for conversation sections (Conversation instructors) must have:
- Native or quasi-native fluency in the target language
- Knowledge of a wide range of vocabulary in order to conduct effective conversation in classes on many different kinds of topics
- Familiarity with the cultures where the language is spoken
Native speakers of a language qualify to be Conversation instructors on condition that they:
- Speak a standard dialect
- Have a vocabulary equivalent to that of a college-educated speaker
- Speak clearly and intelligibly
Non-native speakers with quasi-native competence may also be considered for Conversation instructor positions
Grammar Sections
TAs for grammar sections (Analysis instructors) must have:
- Knowledge of the grammar of the target language
- Strong speaking skill in the target language in order to conduct communicative activities and discuss grammar points in the target language
Non-native speakers are likely to qualify as Analysis instructors if they:
- Have completed a college major or minor in the target language
- Have had a period of residency in a country where the language is spoken
Non-native speakers with quasi-native competence may also be considered for tutor positions