Job Discussion Forums

[RacheUK]

Hi, rachael here from UK, currently doing my tefl and hoping to get out there in the real world,

just a couple of questions for you experts...

unruly kids: best way to handle them without losing your cool or respect?

best way to start first lesson for any age group withoutbeing patronising?

any info would be greatly received,

racheUK

[Guy Courchesne]

Hi,

If you are going to teach abroad, odds are you won't be teaching kids. If you do, the way to handle younger rowdy kids (let's say 6-12) is to keep them engaged. More often than not, kids are rowdy because they are bored....that doesn't mean make your lessons about laughing and clowns...it means keep the topics relevant and interesting.

Teenagers often rebel in class as part of the nature of growing up. Teens often need to rebel in class in order to establish their individual identities, or, to feel part of a crowd or peer group. This is tough to handle in class, but can also be handled by acknowledging the student's need for attention by giving it...do it by tailoring topics in classwork to account for that need.

[shmooj]

[Guy Courchesne]

They really put you in with kids first or often in Asia? I'm surprised...had no idea. Latin America and Europe are the opposite with more adults. Here in Mexico they tend to prefer something a little higher than TESOL or TEFL for kids.

I was a little unclear as to what you meant about not patronizing the kids first class. I get it now. I imagine that it really depends on the context you enter the class in. Taking over from another teacher can be a situation full of pitfalls...such as being seen as a substitute knock off for the first few weeks, or or being seen as over ingratiating yourself to replace a favorite teacher. Don't be fooled into thinking that kids can't perceive this stuff.

I think that getting right into your program or curriculum (if you have one thrust upon you) would be best. Since consistency is very important with certain age groups, you may as well set the tone for the year right from the get go. That's not to say let the program teach itself. I mean that you should be the same person on the first day as you expect to be the last day. If that's engaging, witty, and a friends, stay that way. If it's serious, to-the-point, and hardworking, then don't switch gears on them too fast.

I'm curious to know what your expectations are RacheUK. In your course, I assume they are telling you about what assignments lie abroad, but are they gearing you up for kids?

[Glenski]

[Guy Courchesne]

Mexico recently mandated more english instruction hours for elementary age children as well...without a good program to bring teachers up to speed. We could use a well-planned Jet (or Met?) program out here.

Many students here don't get exposed to English language instruction or rather, courses heavy with English until they get to university. This is often a big shock to 17-19 yr olds, especially those getting into technology fields. Many of the chain language centers are packed with 17-22 yr olds for that.

As well, there is much ELT inside companies. Mexico was overran by globalization so many 30-40 yr olds need to learn English on-the-fly so to speak as HQ changed from Mexico City to places like London, Toronto, and NYC.

[ls650]

[RacheUK]

WOW! thanks a lot for your responses,

I am looking at the i-to-i online tefl and not sure how in depth it will with regards to the practical and not just the theory, but with some ideas of my own and from the board, I hope i can get into the practical side easily,

With regards to patronising, I mean trying to teach in a manner that suits the knowledge they already have, and say for e:g, not teaching 50+ year olds as if they are children but still remaining concise and simple.

I have always wanted to teach but never had the guts and to teach here in the UK, you need a degree, which I dont have. So a TEFL will allow me to enter teaching and help others around the globe at the same time

I just hope I do it justice as people make a career out of this, which eventually I HOPE I can do too, its more than just saying you want to, you have to be a good teacher too, and am looking forward to teaching all levels and ages.

China does appeal to me, but I'll go where the work is, as never been abroad before and am willing for new challenges.

[Guy Courchesne]

The i-to-i online program has a practical teaching component? I wasn't aware. I suggest making sure about that as straight online courses often aren't enough to secure employment, especially if you haven't a degree or any teaching experience.

[moonraven]

The rowdy kids I have had are usually junior high schoolers. They are my favorites, actually. Having said that, the first day in class anyone who acts up to get attention gets it by standing right next to me for the rest of the class (or until he begs to return to his seat--here in Mexico they are always boys who have the macho habit of "measuring the teacher"). I always indicate how ready I am to give positive attention, and mention that students who seek positive attention usually do better than those who seek negative attention.

The first class, from my perspective, is introduction time. I put students in pairs or trios to share basic information: name--this is your chance to start learning all their names--place of origen, family position (oldest, youngest, etc.), favorite school subject, most hated school subject, free time activities, etc. Then they present each other.

I introduce myself last, and I give them a one-shot opportunity to ask me personal questions.

By then the class is usually over--if not, due to hour and a half class with 8 students or something--I let them start making their Personal Coats of Arms.

[Twisting in the Wind]

[bluffer]

I have had a look at the i-to-i website.

I have to be honest, I am not impressed, its definately more style than content.

I would be a bit worried about a place that gives a weekend certification and diploma course that has maybe 1 hour of teaching practice! Also the online course seems to be just the weekend course plus self study modules and a cd rom to observe other teachers. A lot of places wont accept that as a TEFL / TESOL cert .

Any reason you didnt go for the CELTA?


But for kids - it depends on the individuals and the countries you teach. In Asia you can use your height and "physically" intimidate them by invading their personal space, that some times works, speaking to them in a very low voice close up works as well, a hard stare, eye contact, stopping talking etc etc

If you look on the web there are hundreds of web sites with lesson plans, techniques to try. Have a look around and see what fits your style and personality.

ie http://www.aaaefl.co.uk

[bluffer]

[RacheUK]

thanks again,

I liked the look of i-to-i as I could complete it in my own time and it seemed reasonably priced, although as you mention the content doesnt seem so comprehensive.

I would love to Celta/trinity equivalent but at the mo dont have that sort of money or the time to take off work.

ok, hands up, give the newbie a break, anyone recommend a really good online Tefl that wuld be worth me paying for and will give good standing?

not asking for a quick fix, but surely there are others in my situation that are working full time and cant take 2 weeks/a month off to complete something like this?

*kneeling before wise ESL masters*

rache

[bluffer]

Generally the normal standards to look out for are

100 + hours of tuition
6-8 hours of observed teaching practice. ie you teaching and being observed

also if possible you should have the same amount of time observing other teachers.

Have a look around at the colleges near you. My local one in the UK offered a full time 4 week CELTA and a part time weekend option. That might be more suitable for you.

The main problem with all online courses is the lack of proper teaching practice, observation and feedback. Something is always better than nothing but...

It depends where you want to work - eg if its Thailand you could try TEFL international. They have a work as you study programme.

http://www.teflinternational.com/PELTearnlearn.htm

I am sure other people in other countries have something along the same lines.