How to Teach English - Methodology and Tips: Classroom Management Techniques for New Teachers

Summary

In this video, Chris from Language House discusses the essential aspects of classroom management for new teachers. The focus is on strategies to build confidence and create a productive classroom environment. Key points include overcoming public speaking anxiety, setting up the classroom effectively, managing student behavior with clear and concise instructions, and utilizing body language and gestures. Chris also emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching methods and being mindful of classroom dynamics to enhance communication and learning. Practical advice is given to ensure that new teachers can feel comfortable and successful in their role.

Takeaways

• 😀 Classroom management starts with preparation and control over the physical setup of the classroom.
• 😀 Overcoming initial stage fright is common for new teachers and becomes easier with practice and experience.
• 😀 Building rapport with students and being engaging helps create a more comfortable classroom environment.
• 😀 Teachers can control the classroom layout (e.g., horseshoe, rows, or islands) to suit different teaching scenarios.
• 😀 Before teaching, teachers should familiarize themselves with the classroom's resources (e.g., whiteboards, projectors) and plan accordingly.
• 😀 New teachers often struggle with public speaking and shyness, but these issues diminish as they embrace their educator role.
• 😀 Confidence in teaching is built through practice, and using techniques like demos, lead-ins, and engagement helps reduce shyness.
• 😀 A teacher's posture and voice play a significant role in classroom authority and communication.
• 😀 Being direct and clear with instructions, avoiding extra language, improves classroom management and ensures students know exactly what to do.
• 😀 Teachers should aim to be mindful of their position in the classroom, ensuring they don’t block students' views or distract from group discussions.
• 😀 Using large gestures and clear signals (like a stop command or visual aids) helps end activities smoothly and keeps the class organized.

Q & A

What is one of the major challenges new teachers face according to the transcript?

One of the major challenges new teachers face is overcoming stage fright when teaching in front of a class. This initial fear can be intimidating, but it becomes easier with practice and experience.

How can new teachers manage their fear of public speaking in the classroom?

New teachers can manage their fear by embracing their role as educators. Once they step into the role of a teacher, their focus shifts from self-consciousness to delivering the lesson, which helps alleviate some of the anxiety.

Why is classroom setup important for effective teaching?

Classroom setup is important because it directly influences communication and interaction among students. Depending on the activity, the desk arrangement can either foster collaboration or require more focused individual work.

What advice is given to teachers regarding classroom dynamics?

Teachers are encouraged to be confident and in control of the classroom. This includes having clear communication, proper posture, using a strong teacher voice, and being direct with instructions. Managing classroom dynamics is crucial for effective teaching.

How can a teacher reduce extra language and improve class management?

To improve class management, teachers should reduce extra language and avoid unnecessary commentary. Being concise and direct helps maintain students' attention and makes it easier for them to follow instructions.

What role do body gestures play in classroom management?

Big, sweeping body gestures help communicate instructions more effectively, especially when moving students into groups or signaling the end of an activity. These gestures make directions clearer and more engaging for the students.

What is the importance of using an anchor in classroom activities?

Using an anchor, such as a ball or object, helps open the class for student interaction. It prevents teachers from isolating individual students and encourages engagement among the whole class during discussions or feedback sessions.

What is the recommended strategy for managing classroom transitions?

For managing transitions, teachers should have a clear signal or cue to get students' attention. This could include stopping the activity, using an object like an anchor, and then directing the students' focus to the next task or instructions.

How can teachers build rapport with students and ease their anxiety?

Building rapport with students can ease anxiety by creating a more conversational and relaxed classroom environment. When teachers establish trust and understand their students, it becomes easier to engage with them and reduce nervousness.

What can teachers do to improve their classroom setup and teaching environment?

Teachers should assess the classroom environment before starting lessons, ensuring they have the right tools, such as a whiteboard or projector. They should also arrange desks to suit the activity and the learning goals, ensuring the space is functional and conducive to communication.