Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) offers powerful techniques for enhancing communication, building rapport, and facilitating better outcomes in English language teaching. Below is a simplified “periodic table” of essential NLP techniques that you can explore and integrate into your TESOL practice.
The NLP Techniques Periodic Table
AN
Anchoring
A method to link an emotional state or memory to a specific stimulus,
enabling educators to help students quickly return to productive mindsets.
RB
Rapport
Creating a harmonious connection with learners by matching posture,
tone, or language patterns to establish trust and comfort.
MM
Mirroring
Subtly reflecting students' body language or speech patterns,
fostering a sense of unity and enhancing trust within the classroom.
MT
Meta Model
A set of linguistic tools for clarifying vague or distorted language
during conversations, helping learners refine English expressions.
MI
Milton Model
Utilizes artful vagueness and storytelling to evoke imagination and emotional engagement,
facilitating deeper language acquisition.
SM
Submodalities
Adjusting qualities of mental imagery (brightness, distance, sound)
to shift perception, reinforcing language retention and understanding.
RF
Reframing
Changing the context or meaning of a situation or phrase to alter
perceptions, fostering a positive mindset for learning.
FP
Future Pacing
Encouraging learners to visualize using English confidently in
future scenarios, enhancing motivation and belief in success.
SP
Swish Pattern
Rapidly replacing negative mental images with empowering ones to manage
anxiety, test fears, and negative learning habits.
PP
Perceptual Positions
Viewing interactions from multiple vantage points (self, others, observer),
helping learners gain empathy and deeper language comprehension.
CE
Circle of Excellence
Creating a ‘safe zone’ by mentally or physically designating a circle
where students anchor positive emotional states, boosting confidence.
CA
Chaining Anchors
Linking multiple positive anchors in sequence, gradually leading
learners into a peak state of engagement or focus.
CL
Calibration
Observing subtle changes in students’ physiology or voice to gauge comprehension,
adjusting instruction accordingly in real-time.
TL
Timeline
Visualizing language progress over time to map out goals,
highlighting success milestones for continuous motivation.
PI
Parts Integration
Resolving internal conflicts about learning by integrating different
‘parts’ of the learner's mindset into a unified focus on language success.
SS
Swapping Submodalities
Rapidly modifying the ‘coding’ of an internal image or sound,
shifting negative associations to positive or neutral ones for better learning outcomes.
Learn More About TESOL with NLP
Ready to deepen your understanding of Neuro-Linguistic Programming in the context of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)? Explore these additional resources:
- Using NLP Techniques – Discover how to integrate anchors, rapport-building, and reframing into your daily teaching.
- Anchoring Gratitude in English Language Learning – Gain insights on cross-cultural communication and student motivation through NLP.
- Techniques to Teach English with NLP – Dive into real-world classroom scenarios and activity ideas for applying NLP.