Like HFD I prefer to transpose the needle, but always use the head of the needle - if the head is to the left of your required track it is a turn left indication if to the right a turn right - a lot like flying a VOR and
very simple, if you want to PM your email I can send you an article I have on how to do this. Also, if you have internet where you teach I would recommend
http://www.luizmonteiro.com/Learning_ADF_Sim.htm
just put your mouse pointer on the aircraft and you can change heading and move it around seeing how the needles move,this is a LOT easier than chalk & talk.
