Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Nanbu]

Hello. I have recently been given the opportunity to teach a class of elementary students and I realized that I need to improve my classroom presence. I'm still in the "training" stage, but I would really like to improve as fast as possible.

I'm having a hard time keeping things simple. My way of speaking/asking questions seems to be difficult for the kids. I don't think I have any problems when playing around with the kids, but I'm trying to focus more on teaching ESL.

Anyway, I would really appreciate tips on how to improve. I would like to get the students' attention during class and be able to teach efficiently. Also, I think my voice tends to get a little monotonous during the class. Is there any video or something that I could watch to improve this?

Thank you

[YTMND]

I have the same problem. Over the years, I have learned to back off on the intensity. With adults and college students you can spend 1 hour on one topic or grammar point. With kids, lay off a bit. Playing games is a good idea, but I don't feel they always learn.

I create group activities. Model one good group in front of the class. Sometimes the best voice to teach with is not you. Your students can help other students understand what to do. Then when you ask your "difficult" question, they have a shorter reach.

[soomin]

Focus on speaking in the simplest English you can... Even though your kids are young, their English ability is most likely lower than that. When you think the phrase is too difficult, enunciate and stress the most important words. Slow~ slow~ slow is the way to go, as well. Where I'm from, we all talk super-fast, (so fast that even other native English speakers have a hard time understanding, lol), so just make sure to keep it slow.

You can also use funny voices if your kids aren't paying attention, or if you have to repeat "drill" sentences. Also gestures are a good way to keep kids attention. I usually act ridiculous to my students if they aren't listening~ I flip my hair and pat my cheeks like a princess and they all laugh and can focus a little better...

Experiment and try to watch other teachers if you can... Think back to when you were in school or when you had to babysit kids and how you acted then. Especially with younger kids, entertaining (with a readiness to shoot down any out-of-control clowns) is the best. Slow, exaggerated, and firm. You can do it!

[rowdie3]

Make sure your classes have a clearly organized hook, teach, practice, and demonstrating skills activities built into the class.

Change up the way that you teach within the lesson as much as possible.

Use multimedia - music, youtube videos, smartboard games that will draw in their attention.

Be nice. Don't stress out. Smile.

If they act badly, nip that in the bud immediately. Do not allow students to act out of line or be rude to you.

Nice teacher when they are good. Firm and tough teacher when they are bad.

Consistency in this is key.

Good luck.