English 
Português do Brasil 
Learn English with an American Teacher!
Vaughn is a native-speaker of English, fluent in Portuguese, and actively teaching in Brazil.
Learn English with an American Teacher!
Vaughn is a native-speaker of English, fluent in Portuguese, and actively teaching in Brazil.
Reach out via WhatsApp
Book a 2-hour trial class with a level test—just $50!
What I Offer
I provide high-quality English instruction designed specifically for Brazilian students — whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills for professional or academic goals.
Structured 5-Month Course
- Duration: 5 months
- Frequency: 2 hours per week (8 hours/month)
- Method: Based on the Cambridge Evolve series
- Ideal for: Beginners to advanced learners who want structured, steady progress
- Contract: 5-month agreement, paid monthly
Special Topics & Exam Prep
- TOEFL or Cambridge exam preparation
- Academic writing
- Business English
- Conversational fluency
- Interview preparation
WhatsApp Coaching Included with All Courses
- Continuous support between classes
- Ask questions, get quick feedback, stay motivated
Custom Private (VIP) Lessons
- Flexible scheduling
- $50 per 1-hr session
My Method
My method is based on the communicative approach, which emphasizes that language is acquired through meaningful interaction with the language.
That said, I strive to offer my students real-life conversation, as well as practical and exciting lessons.
I facilitate the experience that I had as a language learner — of seeing constant growth and unlocking students’ natural potential to become language learners.
Encouraging students to see for themselves how capable they are, and inspiring them to continue learning is at the heart of my work.
My coaching services are designed to amplify this approach, and I highly recommend fully committing to the coaching that I offer.
About Me
Teaching runs in my family: As the son of two teachers, the value of education was instilled upon me at an early age. In fact, learning was what we did for fun, with my mom purchasing educational toys instead of regular toys!
When I first came to Brazil, I relied on 2 semesters of college Spanish (which were taught by my mom), and quickly picked up Portuguese using my natural learning instincts and curiosity to interact with the people around me. I became conversational in Portuguese very quickly, and, with my beginning students, I strive to offer the same experience.
As a Master’s degree student, I was a writing consultant in my college’s Writing Center, where I worked 1-on-1 with students from all levels and disciplines, including international students. I developed a strong grasp of English grammar and the fundamentals of writing pedagogy, as well as how to adapt to individual students’ learning styles.
Later on, while working in a career in advertising as a producer, I began studying ESL teaching as a hobby. I joined the platform VIPKid, a virtual teaching platform for kids in China. What I didn’t realize at the time was that this would be the beginning of my love for teaching kids, which I later developed after becoming a father and teaching kids at Kumon in Toledo – PR, Brazil.
My first teaching experience in Brazil was in 2019 for Fisk Language School in Toledo, Paraná, shortly after I met my wife.
From there, my ESL teaching abilities grew, and I also studied a great deal of Applied Linguistics on my own, learning about the theory behind how we learn languages, comparing this to my own experiences and my experiences in the classroom.
Today, I strive to continue and grow as a teacher, building on my experiences and continuing to educate myself, while passionate about helping students achieve their goals.
Outside of the classroom, I am a writer and am working on a feature-length screenplay. I love food, and eating out is one of my favorite pastimes.
Fun fact about me: I just like riding busses. Sometimes I like to just get on a bus with no destination in mind and observe out the window, seeing new parts of the city or country. It’s also a nice time to relax, when nothing is expected of you.
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the parable of the talents in the Bible. I believe teaching is one of mine—and I’m committed to using it well. I strive to “live a life worthy of the calling I have received,” as Paul writes in Ephesians 4:1, to “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in LOVE.”
FAQs
How are classes paid?
Classes are paid in monthly installments over the course of five months.
When you enroll in a course, you’ll sign a simple contract that outlines expectations, class frequency, payment schedule, and other significant details. Payments are made one month at a time.
What if I want to pay one class at a time?
We offer VIP courses, but long-term commitment is encouraged!
How does the trial class work?
I offer a two-hour trial class for $50, which includes a complete level test, an assessment based on the students’ individual goals. From there, we will create a plan for the course moving forward. If the student is interested in general classes, we will work with the Evolve teaching materials.
How do I schedule a class?
Individual courses can be scheduled over the calendar application here on our site. For courses, please reach out to us. We’ll work together to find a time that fits your routine. Samanta (my wife) assists with scheduling and payments to keep everything organized.
What do I need for online classes?
You need a computer — yes, an actual computer — because you’ll need to be able to see the materials that I share on the screen. Using a phone often makes things really difficult. You’ll also need a fast internet connection, and a good microphone and headset to be able to hear and speak clearly during class.
When are you available for classes?
10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Brazil time).
What is the Refund/Rescheduling Policy?
We require at least 24 hours’ notice for any cancellations or requests to reschedule a class. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
How does the online platform work?
Classes are taught through Zoom or Google Meet, in conjunction with a platform called Cambridge One, which allows me to present the class materials — including the book, the exercises, the listening tracks, and the videos. I ask that students please purchase a physical copy of the actual book because it also really helps you to follow the lessons more easily. I also send supplementary materials over WhatsApp.
Why do I use the Cambridge Evolve series?
I use the Cambridge Evolve Series because it’s one of the best-designed English language courses available today. It was developed by Cambridge University, which is known for its research-based approach to language learning. These books are built on real linguistic data — not only about how people actually speak in everyday life, but also based on how language learners actually acquire English. The Cambridge books provide a clear structure for advancement and align closely with the CEFR levels (Common European Framework of Reference), which makes testing and progress tracking much easier and more transparent for students.
How can I purchase my materials?
The books in the Cambridge Evolve series can be purchased on Amazon. I ask that students buy brand new books, because they come with an access code. That code gives you access to the online content — including videos, homework, tests, and everything you need for the course.
How long does it take to speak another language?
This depends on the learner’s dedication, but based on the Common European Framework of Reference, here are some general benchmarks that a learner can achieve:
| CEFR Level | Can Do Statements | Guided Learning Hours |
|---|---|---|
| A1 – Beginner |
• Understand and use familiar everyday expressions • Introduce themselves and ask/answer personal questions • Interact simply if the other person speaks slowly and clearly |
90–100 hours (cumulative) |
| A2 – Elementary |
• Communicate in routine tasks and short social exchanges • Describe daily routines, immediate surroundings, and basic needs • Understand commonly used phrases and expressions |
180–200 hours (cumulative) |
| B1 – Intermediate |
• Understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters • Deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling • Write simple connected text on familiar topics |
350–400 hours (cumulative) |
| B2 – Upper Intermediate |
• Understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics • Interact fluently and spontaneously with native speakers • Produce clear, detailed text and explain viewpoints |
500–600 hours (cumulative) |
| C1 – Advanced |
• Understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts • Express ideas fluently and spontaneously • Use language effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes |
700–800 hours (cumulative) |
| C2 – Proficiency |
• Understand virtually everything heard or read • Summarize information from different spoken and written sources • Express themselves spontaneously, precisely, and fluently |
1000–1200+ hours (cumulative) |
Note: “Guided learning hours” include both classroom instruction and independent study. Progress may vary significantly depending on the learner’s goals, time commitment, environment, and motivation.
Source:
https://support.cambridgeenglish.org/hc/en-gb/articles/202838506-Guided-learning-hours
I’ve had negative experiences before — why would this be different?
That’s completely understandable. A lot of people feel discouraged after past experiences. What I can say is that I do my best to make students feel comfortable in class. I'm a fun and engaging teacher who speaks Portuguese, and I care about my students and want them to succeed. I try to empathize with the struggles my students face, and I work hard to find solutions to help them improve.
What are your qualifications?
- Fluent in Portuguese with experience as a second language learner
- Basic to Intermediate Spanish Certificate from the University of Detroit Mercy
- Master’s in English (Creative Writing) and over 1,500 hours of experience as an academic writing consultant at the Writing Center
- English teacher for Brazilians – 500+ hours of English conversation classes and structured courses for Brazilian students. Experienced in teaching students of all ages.
- Private study of Applied Linguistics based on my experience as a Portuguese learner and my classroom experience as a teacher
- Fluent in Portuguese with experience as a second language learner
- Basic to Intermediate Spanish Certificate from the University of Detroit Mercy
- Master’s in English (Creative Writing) and over 1,500 hours of experience as an academic writing consultant at the Writing Center
- English teacher for Brazilians – 500+ hours of English conversation classes and structured courses for Brazilian students. Experienced in teaching students of all ages.
- Private study of Applied Linguistics based on my experience as a Portuguese learner and my classroom experience as a teacher
Why should I learn English?
English is the most widely spoken language in the world. It’s used for international business as well as during international travel.
But more than that, learning another language — any language — is an experience that opens your mind.
The process of communicating with other people, from other cultures, and thinking differently, opens your mind and exposes you to countless opportunities.
Once you’re able to speak another language, you’ll understand what I’m talking about.
But more than that, learning another language — any language — is an experience that opens your mind.
The process of communicating with other people, from other cultures, and thinking differently, opens your mind and exposes you to countless opportunities.
Once you’re able to speak another language, you’ll understand what I’m talking about.
“I played soccer at American colleges, completed a postgraduate degree in Finance, met my girlfriend, and now I live in Oregon. I can honestly say that all of this was thanks to Vaughn, who helped me a lot with my English. If I hadn’t passed the exams, I never would’ve made it to the United States…”
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