Tomas Bata University in Zlín

Czech Language for International Students

Every day, morning classes in Czech for foreigners take place at the faculty, offering not only linguistic but also cultural insights.

One of the teaching blocks in the summer semester began on Tuesday, 23 April, with a review of topics for the oral exam, specifically focusing on travel. Using interactive methods, the instructor introduced useful phrases to help students during their exams.
Particular attention was given to Czech dining habits. Students were intrigued by when and what Czechs eat, the typical Czech dishes, and how these differ from the cuisines of their home countries. The discussion took place in a friendly atmosphere, full of humour, highlighting the differences in eating customs.
The session then shifted its focus to grammar, particularly the passive voice, which some students initially found quite challenging.
The instructor patiently explained the rules and answered the students’ questions. These students, who are now at B1-B2 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), had started from the basics at the beginning of the winter semester. Towards the end of the class, the students reviewed anatomical terminology and phrases used during doctor visits—essential for navigating everyday life and travelling.
Instructor Petra Bačuvčíková shared her experiences teaching Czech to foreigners, including challenges such as teaching declension in a language that is entirely different from many students’ native tongues. “Everyone learns a lot about their own language as well, and when you get to talk about various topics with the more advanced students, they bring opinions and experiences that enrich the entire group.”

“You can really see that in some respects, we are all the same,” she explains, adding, “we share common experiences, but of course, the cultures they come from are different. Students are often surprised by certain Czech customs, such as Mikuláš with devils or some Easter traditions. However, in the end, they embrace what resonates with them and enjoy their time here.”
Text: Michaela Kottová, intern