Job Discussion Forums

[misskaty]

I'm teaching a class of 11 and 12 year olds tomorrow for the first time. Their previous teacher has warned me that they are extremely disruptive, will talk in their native language (Turkish) all the time, and it's important for me to be strict and firm from the start.

I've never had to deal with a class like this before and I'm nervous. I used to teach in Poland and the children there, on the whole, were well behaved and responsive. I've never had to be particularly strict and tend to be a relaxed teacher.

I'm not following a text book, I can do whatever I want with these kids. The idea is that they have regular English classes with a Turkish teacher, and I go in once a week to promote communication. Any ideas?

[keitepai]

Hi,
I also teach Turkish kids but they are younger and a bit easier - culturally these kids have had less boundaries and limits than European or English kids so they behave accordingly. You do need to be strict but they enjoy fun also, they are not mean kids in general and just need to know where the line is.

I suggest some active games to keep them interested and busy - maybe a reward chart for speaking English and then something exciting to do when they achieve a full chart. Bingo games are always good or good old hangman. Throwing a beanbag or ball in a circle and using a greeting ie I throw the ball to a friend and say "How are you?" the friend replies "I am fine" and then throws it to another person. I don't know the English level but you could change the questions if they are already advanced.

This age likes to compete with each other and I find boys expecially keen to suceed in front of their peers - you could resort to sweet rewards if you are really stuck?!
Good luck

[naturegirl321]

Try to use positive reinforcement, rather than punishing the bad ones. Move kids to different seats if they misbehave.