4 Tips on presenting to an ESL audience (from an ESL librarian)
1. Speak slowly, in short sentences, and pronounce each word carefully.
Speaking louder isn’t nearly as helpful as speaking slowly unless you know the ESL person is also hard of hearing.
2. Whenever possible, use written words on a whiteboard or PowerPoint presentation
Written words are often the strongest reference for learners of a new language.
3. Avoid using idioms, as they rarely translate with the same meaning into other languages.
An ESL person will also be less likely to know the meaning of English-specific idioms.
4. Avoid phrasal verbs.
E.g. “look up” or “look out” in which the meaning is idiomatic and has little or no resemblance with that of the principal verb; instead, use one-word equivalents such as “search,” “careful,” etc.
