Korean Job Discussion Forums

[cj1976]

I am teaching part-time at a middle school. I have been assigned to teach speaking to 1st grade students. I have tried using board games, PPT games and some role-plays but nothing seems to get them interested. They are either too shy, not interested or falling asleep.
I really want to get them up and at it, but I am not doing well at the moment. Any tips?

[BS.Dos.]

Do you have text book, CT? Either way, you should really be able to whip 'em into shape being as you're their new teacher. Don't let them develop bad habits now. They should really have a book to work from, so start a routine, and enforce some discipline for the first few weeks so they understand who's in charge. If they don't have a book, speak to whoever you're reporting to and find out why. It'll probably be in Korean, but will more than likely have dialogues in English, in which case, run them through PPT and add some gap fills and comprehension questions to start. Get them into a routine of sorts and then gradually work in some ideas of your own. If they don't have a text book, then speak to your CT about buying one yourself to use. Kyobo etc will have plenty and you'll be able to get something that's probably much better than the standard crap they usually use.

I'm sorry if I sound patronising or condescending, it's just from your post, you sound like everything is new to you. If it isn't, then I apologise. If it is, then unfortunately, I'm afraid there isn't a magic wand that you can wave. There are hundreds of five minute games etc that you can roll out, but your lessons really should have some structure of some kind rather than just a constant stream of dreary 5-minute word games etc. Students that are too shy, not interested or falling asleep applies to most FTs classrooms, including mine. It is a tough gig if you're not used to it, but you can and will make progress and they will respond positively if you focus on what your doing. Controlling things and projecting yourself with both authority and confidence, regardless of whether it's actually there or not should be your first priorities. Basically, strut about like you own the place.

Stay with it and try not to run before you can walk. Others will probably post activities for you etc which will give you some useful short-term ideas, but for the time being, spend some getting in amongst them. Don't hide at the front behind your desk. They're only 13-year old girls after all.

If you post up a bit more info etc, then people can be a bit more specific in the help they offer.

[BS.Dos.]

Jeez. Just noticed you've been here since 2005.

Sorry. I thought you were new. Who've you been teaching up till now?

In any case, I'd go out and lay-out 10,000 or so on a new book if they don't have one, then get them to refund you. save you time if you're going to be teaching them for the long-term.

[Dodgy Al]

Personalize the materials as much as you can - make it about them.

Mix it up with a variety of activities, but also add elements to your class that the students can expect to see, week in week out.

Devote a class to making rules with them. This is textbook EFL stuff, but it works. Incorporate some fun punishments / rewards to liven them up.

Overall, be confident - it's your domain.

[cj1976]

I'm not new to Korea but I am new to middle school. I've always been in elementary schools and the kids are a different kettle of fish altogether.
I have no experience working with young teenagers, so I'm finding it a bit tricky.