Instructional Classroom Language

Summary

In this educational video, Anna and Caty discuss the crucial aspect of giving clear instructions in a classroom setting. They emphasize the impact of poor instruction on lesson outcomes and offer practical tips for both general classroom management and specific activity guidance. The video covers the importance of planning, using simple language, setting time limits, and employing body language to enhance understanding. They also suggest strategies for ensuring comprehension, such as questioning students and breaking down complex instructions. The engaging presentation aims to help teachers avoid confusion and enhance learning experiences.

Takeaways

• 📝 Importance of Clear Instructions: A lesson can fail or become confusing if instructions are not properly explained.
• 👩‍🏫 Tips for Teachers: Even experienced teachers and native English speakers need guidance on giving instructions.
• 🔑 General Instructions: These are essential for classroom management and include basic commands like 'sit down' and 'be quiet'.
• 🎓 Activity-Specific Instructions: These are more complex and are used for activities like games or art projects.
• 🗣️ Practicing Instructions: Before class, practice what you're going to say to increase confidence and clarity.
• 👂 Ensuring Student Attention: Make sure all students are listening before you start giving instructions.
• 🕒 Setting Time Limits: Inform students how long an activity will take to manage their expectations and time effectively.
• 🤔 Breaking Down Instructions: For long activities, break instructions into parts to prevent confusion and information overload.
• 👯‍♀️ Pairing Students: Use simple language to pair students up or form groups to save time and facilitate activities.
• 📈 Checking Understanding: Ask questions or check with the whole class to ensure students have understood the instructions.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video featuring Anna and Caty?

The main topic of the video is about giving instructions in a classroom setting, emphasizing its importance and providing tips on how to do it effectively.

Why is it crucial for teachers to give clear instructions?

Clear instructions are crucial because a lesson can fail or a class can become confused if an activity is not properly explained.

What is the first type of instruction mentioned in the script that helps manage a class?

The first type of instruction mentioned is general instructions, which include directives like 'please come in', 'please sit down', 'please be quiet', etc.

How does the script suggest teachers handle instructions for activities?

The script suggests that teachers should ensure all students understand the activity, plan what they're going to say, and possibly practice it beforehand.

What is advised if the activity instructions are complex?

For complex activities, it's advised to break down the instructions into parts to avoid confusion and ensure students remember each step.

How can teachers ensure students are listening before giving instructions?

Teachers can ensure students are listening by getting their attention with a signal or a call to action, such as asking for quiet or using a visual cue.

What is the purpose of providing time limits for activities?

Providing time limits for activities helps students understand how long they have to complete the task, which is important for managing their time and focusing on the activity.

Why is using simple language recommended when giving instructions?

Using simple language helps ensure that all students, regardless of their language proficiency, can understand the instructions clearly.

What role does body language play when giving instructions?

Body language is important when giving instructions as it can help clarify and reinforce the verbal instructions, making it easier for students to follow.

How can teachers check if students have understood the instructions?

Teachers can check if students have understood the instructions by asking the whole class or individual students to repeat the instructions back or by asking questions about the instructions.

What is the final tip given in the script for giving instructions?

The final tip given in the script is to use these tips whenever giving instructions to the class to ensure clarity and effectiveness.