Frequency of New Posts

This site is not a typical blog. It is mainly a means by which content can be shared. Therefore, it will not be updated on a daily schedule as many blogs are. That does not mean it is not being maintained or updated. It simply means the schedule is atypical.

Content is added to this site as my personal schedule and needs dictate. The pattern of posting will most likely be infrequent updates (once every 1-3 weeks) with several posts made each time. That is, there will be a lot of content added at once then a break before the next posting spate.

About Lesson Material Modification

Occasionally, the lesson materials will be updated to make additions, improvements or refine the material. This is done after the lesson has been taught several times and weak points are discovered or more follow-up questions or material are required.

Please note that all of these lessons have been taught at least once before they are posted.

An updated lesson will be re-posted with a new date replacing the older material entirely. A note will be made at the top of the material explaining the changes that have been made.

Site Conventions

Posts to this site will always use "she" when referring to the teacher and "he" when referring to the student in cases where a pronoun is used. The purpose of this is not to convey any gender bias but to simplify the way in which posts are written. Rather than subject the reader to constant references to "he or she" and "his or her", it's less convoluted to simply choose a gender for each role and use it consistently.

How to Use This Site

Since this is a blog, posts are added by date. Therefore, the most effective ways to locate particular content are as follows:

• Use the labels listed under "Find Content by Label" to find a category of interest to you.
• Use the "Search this blog" function in the navigation bar at the top of the page.
• Make a comment requesting where certain types of material can be found.

Mission Statement

The purpose of "The Home Sensei" is to offer advice to English teachers living and working in Japan with a particular eye toward those who teach privately in their own homes. Teachers working in other situations will likely benefit from some of the advice and materials offered on this site.

Posts to this site will include:

• Original lesson materials and content created by myself. Those accessing this site may use the materials as desired but may not incorporate them into any commercial texts or work for profit. I retain the rights to my work.
• Reviews and recommendations on how to use certain commercial textbooks.
• Advice on how to teach various types of students.
• Tips on providing a good physical environment when dealing with Japanese students.
• Advice on dealing with Japanese students and their particular needs both psychologically and in regards to their English studies.
• Advice on referral agencies and methods of acquiring private students.
• Information on Japanese culture and how it relates to interacting with students.
  

I hope you will find the information posted here useful and welcome any comments, suggestions, or questions you may have.