Teachers, Never Ask THIS Question to Your Students - Teaching Vocabulary Tips

[@J_Shingy53]

Never say : "Do you understand?" Instead do: CCQ - Concept - Check - Question Thank you for this

[@callmeluna07]

Thanks

[@manuelvalencia9407]

1:20 - I already knew this (about CCQs), mostly because I'm a CELTA graduate and that my classmates and I were drilled on this, almost like the plague. We were also taught to use Instruction check questions (IFQs). We were also taught to say to use "Okay?" followed by IFQs. Unfortunately, almost all Japanese teachers never do this, but Japanese educational culture kind of dictates that you're not suppose to ask questions so much of the teacher, which I feel is a big No No, along with mistakes are bad. So, in my classes, I always tell my students to ask questions and make mistakes. Thanks for your video!

[@soraya1490]

Eso es verdad. Lo recuerdo de la universidad, nos enseñaron eso, tal cual.❤

[@shmadsta]

This makes so much sense. I’m an ESL assistant hoping to become a classroom teacher, and I always hated the question “does everyone understand?” But I could never put my finger on why, or what to ask instead. Your videos are so helpful and practical!

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thank you very much

[@monique4879]

Chris, could you make a video regarding nerves / anxiety for new teachers? Tips for shaking it off, getting out of your head and perfectionism etc

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

I can put it on my list! Thanks for watching

[@arzuozkan370]

try tapping pls and deep breathing/. x

[@bettyrose5387]

It just increased for me 😂😂😂😂

[@aynazdehghan5706]

As a new teacher i always think that I'm not good enough No matter how hard I'm trying

[@sufianmustafa5656]

This is me​@@aynazdehghan5706

[@roslynmorgan1097]

I call this also a "shut down" sentence. I have tried learning languages myself and there is nothing worse than being put on the spot! Of course you are going to say yes! Thank you so much. I taught in classrooms but at schools where the students already have a basic understanding. Going into teaching online where student does not know anything has been hard to wrap my head around. Of course you mime and do whatever it takes to get the word across no matter how foolish you may look, kids love that, but online, I was finding it difficult to get a grasp on where to start! I was already moving towards sentences with questions and answers that would appear normal however having a systematic approach makes me feel so much better! I have never understood why it was okay to allow the student to get bad habits that only need to be corrected anyhow later. I figure get the foundation strong and the rest will follow without making it a big deal so they don't shut down. I think it is all in your own attitude about it. Thanks again!

[@Stella07Watson]

Hi everyone I am 17 years old and in the upcoming week I am going to start teaching students Thanks a lot ,Chris . Your guidance is really hard-nosed

[@noranbennour8079]

Me tooo , I'm 17 and his videos have been of great benefit! Hope you do will in your lessons !

[@Nazli_naz88]

I'm also 17 and I started teaching 2 weeks ago 😊

[@ДмитрийНиколаев-м5ц]

Yeah, man. I had predicted that question right before you announced it. I feel so awkward when it comes from my mouth during my classes. Thanks!

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Ding ding 🛎 you got it right

[@fathimaamna1305]

We need more of this kind of contents. This is so practical & makes sense. Thank you!

[@TarePradeepkumar]

I have been teaching English for the past 8 years. I really like presentation skills.

[@MrsOMG]

What a kind reminder of using more ccq's! In Russia we are taught a different concept of having a lesson. Teacher knows everything, students listen with their mouths shut. The new era has begun! 🧠🤟

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Let the light shine!

[@StephenStubblefield-p9c]

Your teaching style makes things so accessible!

[@auroraplaylists]

Thank you! It's super helpful. I've been using both the bad question and the CCQs, but now I'm going to use only CCQs

[@Elena-sg5xj]

Yes, correct. Brilliant advice. It's a dead-end question. Instead, ask ccqs

[@elenad815]

Owing to various tutors online, even being a newbie, I never ask this question. Thanks for the reminder.

[@anasbenhaddou7827]

There something very special about you, Chris, regarding your personality and u as a teacher! We call this thing in Morocco or arabic القبول. If someone has this trait, they are easily lovable and get attention.. Thank you for your wise insights!

[@englishbyjeni]

I always ask the student to give me some examples of the content and it works properly! Good video.

[@nyelkenci]

I'd never ask a silly question as "do you understand?" to my learners at all. CCQ's are the excellent ways to check their understanding the topic. Great job dude. 👍

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thanks for watching!

[@saghar5890]

YOU'RE THE BEST OF THE BEST!!!!! you can't imagine how many times I've watched your videos, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLAESE share more videos of this kinda tips and also your demo classes. You're awesome

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Well thanks!

[@OdessaHardaway]

Your teaching style is the best, thanks!

[@CarolGonzales-e5v]

Your teaching style is always so engaging!

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thanks for watching :)

[@lotus3495]

Actually I just asked “do you understand” today here in China.😅 Thankfully I met this class just now and I’m eager to implement CCQ tomorrow. Thank you, Chris.😊

[@TheCalmness156]

Only 25k views and this was the absolute best tutoring video I have ever come across.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Ahh thanks! I’m redoing it this year to even make it better.

[@KatherineLopez-q3z]

You always make learning so easy to follow!

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thank you! Cheers!🥂

[@michaelfox6878]

I just had an interview for a teaching job in my local town. Last time I was teaching cassette tapes ruled. I'm going to use your fantastic videos to get myself prepared..assuming I get the job! Thanks for putting it out there.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Go for it!

[@شمسكريمغالي]

You are the best teacher in the world... please,, don't be late uploading videos love you so much

[@matthewburgess2637]

Thanks bro - that's sound advice. The 5 Ws were gold.

[@honeybeejourney]

First day on your channel. Subscribed and making comments!

[@KariWillis-g7r]

Your teaching style is perfect for beginners.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Glad to hear that!

[@Haus-z4n]

Thanks for the help! I live abroad in China, my first day tutoring english! ❤

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Happy to help!

[@bubuconstant8070]

That was very helpful. I didn't even know its bad tot ask such a question.

[@nataliasjoy]

Thank you for your videos! As a new teacher they come in very handy ☺️

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

I’m glad to help!

[@seddd]

Chris! You're the real MVP! I'm really needing some tips on how to lesson plan efficiently (for someone who spends a godawful time on it), would love to get some advice on that 🙏

[@miguelangelalonsorodriguez9220]

Teacher thanks a lot for your content, Im 20 and learning a lot from you to get better

[@CarlaCasagrandedeLima]

Wonderful video, thanks for sharing.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thank you too

[@Imaginathan]

Love your content! Thanks for this great tip, I will use it in my class tomorrow... :)

[@JanetAdams-x4v]

This is such a great tip! Thanks!

[@khinezarthwe3242]

The best explanation ever Sir. Thank you so much.

[@lanalirain210]

This's very informative and useful. Thank you.

[@nishagupta2511]

8 feb 2024 thats a very very useful video Chris🎉 Thank you so much😊

[@WongHilda-f2t]

you do know how to help a novice teacher to teacher vocab better! ! ! thank you soooooo much

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Happy to help!

[@wininspn]

If your students all speak the same language other than the language of instruction (e.g., in an ESL/EFL class), one question you can ask is how the given word translates to their language, and then if you know the translation, this is one way to confirm understanding. Asking them is more engaging than just giving them the translation up front. When I ask a class the meaning of a word they might not know, occasionally there is no response. I then help them by giving them *choices* that include either the definition or part of the definition. For example, I might ask, "What does, 'fantastic' mean?" Sometimes, a student will answer correctly, and I will recognize and praise their answer. Other times, there is silence for a few seconds, so I follow up with a question like, "Does it mean 'very good' or 'very bad'," and more often than not a student will respond correctly.

[@keepyoureyesontheprize3851]

Excellent Material!!! Thank You!!🙌🏼🙌🏼👍

[@olivernicholls7551]

Totally agree with this!

[@lavina3548]

Excellent point! Many thanks for this one 🙏❤️

[@tamekayoung7606]

Great video. This helps me a lot better than the training session I been getting.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Great! Keep watching. I’m getting better with my videos each time I make them.

[@Anonymous-ec8xk]

Wonderful lesson!

[@زهراءعباسكاظم-ز6ق]

I like your way of explaining ،so thinks you so much

[@bouthabaki]

Thank you!

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

You bet!

[@artsybluecat]

Wonderful lesson! ❤

[@MikeT-o5b]

Well Ted talk from someone korean said don't fear failure. Generally I'd take feasible risks.

[@DameDjibril]

Thanks , and looking forward to learning MORE ❤❤😊

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Wonderful!

[@bernadettpankotai1979]

Chris, do you ever use a specific language book when teaching? It seems to me that you prepare your own material for each individual class. Thank you!

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Usually I just made my own stuff when I taught or adapted whatever random textbook out there. I am doing a future video on a great resource.

[@ireneodoko2173]

Thank you so much for this.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

You are so welcome!

[@albinvinson]

worth the time , great response 💯💯💯💯

[@pocketenglish6643]

Thank you so much. It is very helpful

[@alexandragriseltellovalenz1029]

Thank you very much!!!

[@Cubanasmith]

Thank you so this was very helpful 😊

[@gunayquliyeva347]

You are a great teacher💜

[@jbloveday9538]

I knew the question in advance! Yay!😊🇳🇿

[@immaculateheart1267]

GREAT TIPS!!! love your videos. what video app do you use?

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

I use premiere pro

[@Anythingonmymind]

As a teacher I love u

[@germankatalaha7656]

Wow! Thanks 🙏

[@seddd]

Can you do a video on how to deal with different levels in class?

[@AWEdio]

Is it bad if I ask the dreaded question and then CCQ afterwards to see if the student really understood?

[@gregoryalter2692]

Throughout my academic years, I found that my teachers had a recurring habit of inquiring whether I grasped the new concepts being taught, whether it was the multiplication techniques in math, the planetary systems in science, or the historical events of World War II. I strongly hold the belief that it is unsuitable for educators to consistently ask their students this question, regardless of the subject matter. Even parents tend to employ this question when reprimanding their children, and it can have a lasting negative impact on the child's well-being.

[@amiralirm2847]

Great buddy thanks❤

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

No problem 👍

[@conversationsinenglishwith3621]

the slanted IKEA lamp in the background is a classic (we have it too)

[@Ірина-с9я]

Dear Chris, ask your subscribers to "refresh" their subsription (cancel and then press two buttons again). Most of them don't get any information about your new videos.

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thanks for the tip!

[@Ірина-с9я]

@@TheLanguageHouseTEFL It’s my pleasure!

[@Negindehqani]

🌸🌸🌸 Great job

[@SuperYos007]

Hey Thank you so much man.

[@diegoperalta196]

I think "Are there any questions?" is a valid question to make before doing the CCQ.

[@Monatio79]

The thing is, students may simply respond to that with "no".

[@diegoperalta196]

@@Monatio79 I agree. But for me the point of the question is to give students 1 second for them to ask a question if there is any. If not, you can continue with the CCQ. Sometimes, me as a student had doubts in the past or wanted to ask a question to clarify an idea but the teacher never gave students the time to do it. Sometimes you want to check some concepts before doing the exercercies. But of course the question alone is not enough, you need the CCQ.

[@jeffrystephan6992]

I understand it now 😁

[@YogeshLama-gm1jk]

Ccq concept check questions

[@lucastomaszucula3474]

yes thanks alot teacher

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Any time

[@circleofattention6021]

I understand.

[@samerman00]

Brilliant

[@jiloking6277]

Ccq Concept check question

[@jiloking6277]

Yes or no question Is this the same as ....? Synonyme What's another word for .....? Use in sentence.... Give a definition What/ who/ when is ...? Show me how are you understanding this

[@k-sama513]

Concept Check Questions CCQ Yes no questions Synonym Definition

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

That’s right. Always do that!

[@naturenmoon]

Hey Chris Westergaard, I've been teaching English for more than 5 years. To be honest, I would really like to be a part of the course where you are working. CCCq, IPA, teaching methods. You are lit! Is there any possibility to be a part of it. I would really like to improve myself better. To make myself better, it would be amazing to be a part of Teaching World with you. In my country, Turkey, personally speaking there are few teachers good at teaching. Most teachers sadly are not even teaching something well. They do not care about STT and TTT as well. Waiting for your response if possible. Edit: The last but not the least, all English lessons are teacher-focused here. Sadly, I am so sorry for it. Regards,

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thanks for watching! It might be hard for us to hire you, but send me an email!

[@Negindehqani]

Hello there .. I saw your website and asked a question then I found you here . I'd appreciate it if you could help me with my question here it is Is it correct to say .. Now ,let's see, what does GO DUTCH mean in a video ? Or the correct one would be now ,let's see ,what GO DUTCH means !. Can't the first one be correct as well ? Can't the first form be used as a sign of curiosity Or emphasis ? Cause it's not actually a real question

[@fatihabdullah2621]

Do you understand it guys ?

[@suzanahmed3361]

Where are you from??

[@miracleizuoba3061]

Watching dis in 2024😂

[@JonathanOrenday]

Watching in 1977 😂

[@AlicePotter-n2c]

2025 🤚🏻🤚🏻🤚🏻

[@LothoOdy]

😊😊😊😊😊

[@sufiaamir2348]

🎉🎉🎉

[@nkprimavera]

❤🎉

[@Antbeast23]

I realize teaching and tutoring it goes by so fast haha

[@abdo-pediall-1335]

I don’t use it to be honest I use Did you get it ? / is it clear? / any questions ?

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

The problem with did you get it is that the a student can just say ‘yes’. How do you know without ccqs?

[@Englishconversation855]

❤

[@juliamontero6200]

Woow beautiful

[@TheLanguageHouseTEFL]

Thank you!

[@plasmaastronaut]

i don't think i ever used this question in my classes, but after watching this i fear i might due to pink penguin syndrome

[@tebatsoshai1548]

Whatching this in 2025 January

[@charliedavis3931]

Same. New teacher trying to get a job.

[@kennyjonespiquero7791]

ty

[@azzasherin7714]

احلى عرض

[@asifmuniruniverse7732]

Yeah I dair to speak truth what do you wanna please don't try to pressuring over me have you got it have you

[@paulluxongudza4627]

Watching this in 2025

[@SilasLuiramo-bl8xd]

It does not make sense.. Understanding will alwys matter...

[@tornadoff678]

2025❤❤❤

[@plerpplerp5599]

Click bait.

[@jadibrahim9932]

Thanks a lot, you saved my day