filomena

about Filomena Coccaro

I was born and raised in Potenza, Italy. I then graduated from the University of Rome “La Sapienza.”

I moved to the United States in 1996 and have been teaching the Italian language and culture for the last fifteen years. My teaching method is not to teach only through textbooks, but through personal experiences: the places I’ve lived in and traveled to, the food I grew up on, and the everyday experiences of Italian life.

I incorporate the many varied and fine examples of Italian culture into my lessons to help my students with the learning process.

I’ve had many wonderful experiences in Italy and I continue to discover and learn more when I visit my home every year.

I am always excited to share my experiences of my visits to Italy in my classroom. I love being here in Cranford, but at the same time I adore my Italian culture and I am truly passionate about sharing it with all of my students.

My Philosophy of Teaching

I teach children, teens and adults in both individual and group formats. Group classes are small, so that I can give each individual personal attention.

While students make use of traditional learning materials such as books and audio/media, much of the learning comes through speaking and constant interaction and conversation with me.

Lesson plans are focused on three parts:

  • Building vocabulary
  • Traditional and progressive approaches to grammar
  • Everyday conversation

In addition to teaching the language, I incorporate the Italian culture through:

  • Conversation
  • Role-play
  • Recipes
  • Geography
  • Music
  • My personal experiences

francesca

about Francesca Ribaudo

I was born and raised in Milano, in the north of Italy.

I completed my Bachelor's in Foreign Languages and Translation in 2016, and I am currently enrolled in an online Master's program in Teaching Italian to Foreigners.

Before coming to the US, I was an ESL teacher for both children and adults. Here, I share my beautiful language and culture with whoever wants to learn about them. I now have three years of teaching experience, and I love what I do.

Federico Fellini, a famous Italian director, said: "a different language is a different vision of life", and there is nothing more rewarding than using all my passion and creativity to enrich and color new visions.