Class Higher TESOL

Large Classes Teaching a large class can be very difficult. In a large classroom the teacher must create a lesson plan that tries to cater to the vast majority of his students. A good way of achieving this objective is to incorporate many different types of activities and teaching techniques. Using the same activites and same teaching techniques will fail the meet the needs of everyone. In my large class of 75, I have used a different method of instruction in every class. Although in a particular class some students may feel unengaged and bored, the use of eclectic teaching methods over the entire course of the class will make sure that every student is learning. In a large classroom, one on one time with the student is limited. A good way to ensure face time with your students during classtime to practice language is to make sure the classroom small. A good way of doing this is to divide the class into small groups and have the students work together. The teacher should not always lecture to the class. In small group sessions, the teacher can wander from group to group and teach the students in a smaller setting. This can be benificial in many ways. The students are more willing to ask questions in small groups than in large groups because they may be shy. The students will feel that the teacher is catering to his or her specific needs and this personal interaction can serve as a source of motivation. The teacher can get a better feel for the language level of individual students through small group activities. For the students, small groups allows them to be familiar with their fellow classmates. This will allow them not only to be comfortable with one another but also to learn from one another. In a large class the range of english ability will vary greatly among the students. It is a good idea to test the students on the first day to have an understanding of what they are capable of. In my stay here at Shanxi Agricultural University I was able to place my students into separate classes based on a placement test. Not only was this beneficial for me as the teacher, because I am now able to teach without having to worry about my lessons being too difficult for some and too easy for others in the same class, but also beneficial for the students. They are able to study with people who are at the same level as they are. The students are a valuable source of input and advice if you are a first time teacher. On my first day of classes, I spent a little time asking the students what they expected and what they wanted from my class. They expressed teaching methods that worked and teaching ideas that didn't work in their previous english class. As a first time teacher I have taken my student's advice to heart and put them into plan. So far the classes have been very educational and also fun. I find it very advantageous to have the students be in control of what they want to learn, especially in a large class. Don't be nervous! This is the most valuable advice I can give from my limited experience. The students will be very supportive of you because they want to learn and absorb your culture. If you are nervous on the first day, use ice breakers and play games. Get to know your students before you start to instruct them.