Job Discussion Forums

[Katla_Yogurt]

Zenme yang.

Hey all,

I'm getting ready to leave for Taipei in a couple weeks to teach English at a chain school. Why a chain school? I have no teaching experience, so I need to adhere to some major-a** conformity (praise be to Confucius for having such a profound influence on the Chinese).

Anyway, I have all this time on my hands to prepare myself for the coming months and I would like to know at least in part what I'm getting into (I know, I know, so extraneous). Can anyone spit out some recommendations on teaching handbooks or redirect me to a website that might help me or just tell me what they did and how incredibly clueless I am? I'll take any morsel of advice. Sharing is caring...

Thanks in advance, all.

[puiwaihin]

It really depends on who you work for as to how they want you to teach.
But basically, most schools want the kids talking more than you are.

Teach them the basic thing you want to practice then let them practice it. Explain very clearly, but then make sure they are speaking.

Look up the term "error correction" +TESOL in Google and read up on some of it.

Oh, and realize this: classroom management is a big big key. Make the kids enjoy the class, but don't let them go crazy. Keep control, but don't make them hate to come to your class.

Start thinking of games you can play to make learning fun...

[Incredible Ape]

I recommend Scrivener's Learning Teaching as a good guide. It's the one used on CELTA courses as far as I know.

It's got some good little tips on classroom management. For instance on your first lesson with a new class, arrive before the students. This means you can chat to them as they arrive, instead of having them wait for "teacher's big entrance". Good for your nerves, I reckon.

It's that balancing act that many find difficult: between making learning fun, and being a doormat. It's achievable with a little practice.

If you make rules, stick to them. Don't threaten punishments that will punish you e.g detention, as you'll hate it as much as them.

Anyway, get the book, loads of stuff there.

[Girl Scout]

My understanding of chain schools is that they have a preset curriculum. Most of what you need will be already prepared.

I do suggest you brush up on some songs for the younger kids and 10 minute games for the slightly older. Be prepared to change what you are doing often. Children have short attention spans.

Don't be self conscious. You don't have to be a clown in the classroom, but enthusiasm will keep students attention and make them want to respond to you.

Really listen to the students. Even if you don't quite understand what they are saying show a lot of interest. Eye contanct and a well placed, "Really, you." will boost their confidence and keep them talking

http://www.onestopenglish.com/index.htm

This is one of the more useful websites out there. They have everything from methodology to lesson ideas. Don't forget to explore other parts of Dave's site. There is a lot of information to be found here.

Welcome to Taiwan.

[Wonder]

Make sure there is at least some training in your school, and ask other teachers/your boss to sit in on your classes from time to time during your first few months in Taiwan. There's nothing like constructive criticism and praise to set you on the right track.

I was at a school for more than one year and nobody came in and watched my classes. As a result, I developed some bad habits.

Then when I went to another school, they visited my classes and reminded me of a few things and it really helped. Like a writer that needs an editor, a good teacher needs a good mentor.

Good luck!