Brno, the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Ilona Sostronek, an experienced language teacher, who shared her favorite places, local dishes, and engaging activities for English learners. Ilona has been teaching for over 15 years and brings a unique perspective from her work at the Defense Language Institute in the Czech Republic, where she teaches students of all levels, from young learners to professional soldiers.
Must-See Events and Landmarks
Shelly: Which event is a must for visitors?
Ilona: A must-see landmark is Spilberk Castle in Brno, but I also recommend the International Film Festival in Karlovy Vary for anyone visiting the Czech Republic.
Spilberk Castle, dating back to the 13th century, offers breathtaking views of Brno and its surrounding countryside. The castle has transformed over the centuries, from a royal residence to a formidable fortress and, later, a prison. Today, it houses a museum showcasing Czech history and art. If you’re visiting Brno in the summer, the International Film Festival in Karlovy Vary is a world-renowned event featuring a week of films, workshops, and events. These cultural landmarks provide an enriching experience for TESOL teachers and students alike, offering insights into Czech heritage, art, and architecture.
Taste of Czech Cuisine: Dumplings and More
Shelly: What are popular local dishes?
Ilona: Dumplings, cabbage, and roasted pork are classics, but carp with potato salad is the traditional dish for dinner on Christmas Eve.
Czech cuisine is known for its hearty flavors, and dumplings (knedlíky) are a staple that often accompanies meat dishes. Christmas Eve dinner is a special occasion in the Czech Republic, where families come together to share a meal of fried carp with a side of potato salad. This festive dish is steeped in tradition, symbolizing unity and togetherness. For TESOL teachers, discussing local foods in the classroom can be a delightful way to explore vocabulary and cultural traditions while connecting with students over shared experiences of food and family celebrations.
Engaging Classroom Activities for English Learners
Shelly: Describe activities your English learners enjoy.
Ilona: My students love creating country quizzes and presentations. If someone visits a foreign country, they make a quiz about it, and the rest of the class competes to answer questions. They also prepare presentations focusing on photos of people, culture, nature, cuisine, and extras. To add a challenge, students come up with questions that might not be covered in the presentation, which keeps everyone engaged and encourages research. We learn about the world, broaden our horizons, enrich our vocabulary, and practice grammar.
Ilona’s approach emphasizes hands-on learning and cultural exchange. By preparing quizzes and presentations, students engage in research, listening, and speaking exercises that challenge them to use English in practical ways. This format not only helps them build vocabulary around specific topics but also fosters a sense of curiosity about the world. For TESOL teachers, encouraging students to create presentations on places they’ve visited or are curious about can lead to lively discussions and a deeper understanding of diverse cultures.
About Brno: A Cultural and Educational Hub
Brno is a city that seamlessly blends history with modernity, offering a vibrant art scene, a wealth of historical landmarks, and a friendly community. The city is also known for its innovative approach to education and research, making it a fantastic place for TESOL teachers to live and work. With renowned universities, cultural festivals, and a rich heritage, Brno provides an inspiring environment for teachers and students alike.
Thank You, Ilona!
Ilona Sostronek has been teaching English for over 15 years and has a passion for working with diverse groups of students. Her role at the Defense Language Institute in the Czech Republic, where she teaches both professional soldiers and civilians, adds a unique layer to her teaching experience. Ilona’s love for teaching and her dedication to helping students connect with English language and culture shine through in her work. She’s been to Slovakia and dreams of teaching abroad, bringing her experience and enthusiasm to students around the world.
For TESOL educators, Brno offers a culturally enriching environment with opportunities to engage students through language, history, and cultural exchange. Whether you’re exploring Spilberk Castle, sampling dumplings, or leading a classroom quiz on world travel, teaching English in Brno promises to be an adventure filled with discovery and connection.
Learn more about living and working in the Czech Republic.
