Talk about sex in the classroom and thou shalt be banished . Just because women in micro-minies flood the streets of Bangkok doesn't mean Thais have a liberal view towards sex. Bangkok unfortunately may be known for its sex industry, yet your students will most likely be cautious about engaging in sexually inclined conversations. They may talk about it in their own small groups, but never…never..with you - a foreigner! Heaven Forbid!
Thou shalt interpret the Thai smile - Thailand no doubt is the land of smiles, but don't be deceived. This smile does not always carry a positive note. This famous or infamous Thai smile means a million and one things. It is a mere generic reaction to all emotions -- a reflection of a repressed society where anger is a curse. Thais smile when they're happy, angry, sad, embarrassed, or ecstatic. As a teacher, you should learn how to read beyond this façade.
Thou shalt know your grammar I remember studying English grammar in university and hating it with a passion. Who cares what a transitive verb is? The Thais, however, have a love affair with grammar and they have no intention of breaking up with it. Almost every Thai student thinks that knowing grammar terms is the end all and be all of studying English and no amount of explanation could convince them otherwise. This means you have to know, if not extensively, at least the basic grammar rules. You may know what a good or bad sentence is, but if you can't explain why or point out a grammar rule to support your point, you're going down into the pits.
Thou shalt remember that the head is holy, your feet are dirty Never mess with a Thai's head. Never ruffle or touch his/her hair---that is extremely rude. In Thailand, the head is the holiest part of the body. Touching it disturbs the spirit that resides therein. The feet, on the other hand, are the dirtiest parts and should not touch anything of value or point at a person. So when you've got a cup of coke on one hand and a pile of books on the other, never open a door by pushing it with your feet. Devise other ways to get into that room without using those filthy feet of yours.
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