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In my classroom, I believe that culture and pragmatics are deeply intertwined with language learning.  I prioritize teaching culture in a way that is balanced with other key language skills like vocabulary and grammar. I use an integrated approach, where culture is woven into language lessons, allowing students to learn about language through cultural contexts. This helps them understand not just how to use language, but when and why certain structures and phrases are appropriate in specific settings.

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To help students notice culture, I strive to be culturally aware myself. I recognize that as a teacher, I don’t need to be an expert on every culture in the classroom, but I aim to understand how culture impacts my students’ learning. I also strive to be curious and respectful about my students' cultures as this helps me to understand them and teach them better. I also reflect on my own invisible culture and how it influences my teaching. This awareness helps me approach teaching with more objectivity and empathy, supporting students in their journey to become both effective language users and culturally competent communicators.

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At the same time, I deeply value the diverse cultures and perspectives my students bring. I believe that as they learn English, they should also cherish and preserve their own language and heritage. Their cultural richness strengthens our communities, and I encourage them to see their identity as a strength.

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