Teach English in Pitt Meadows - TEFL Courses

When I think about what makes a good teacher, I consider of all my past teachers. I can make list after list of my likes and dislikes, what worked and what wasn't as successful, how they handled or didn't handle problems and use that to try and figure out what kind of teacher I'd like to be. But in my mind, what separates' a good teacher from a great teacher is their classroom management skills. For a new teacher, figuring out how to manage your class is essential to be able survive the school year. The way a teacher manages their class sets the tone and pace of that classroom. There are four areas one must consider when trying to establish proper classroom management; classroom environment, conducting class efficiency, connection with the students and establishing discipline. The overall classroom environment should be a welcoming one. I think the desks should be set up to where you can see everyone and everyone can see you from the front of the room. Personally, I would set up horseshoe shape with small rows in the middle. The bins to where they hand in weekly homework will be next to the door, clearly labeled and their mailboxes will be towards the back of the room. I would want the students to feel as if we were a family and constantly work together to keep the room clean. “An efficiently run classroom enables students to focus on their work, which, in turn, helps reduce discipline problems.” Conducting class efficiency is achieved by pre-planning. You should set out long term goals that you want the students to reach before the year is through and keep them in mind when creating weekly lesson plans. Also you should introduce topics gradually and constantly review, to ensure retention. When giving directions they should be clear, brief and direct. You should also always consider time when creating activities, tests and worksheets. To make sure that you connect with all the students you should vary your delivery, encourage all students and apply proven teaching techniques. Varying your delivery means being creative with your voices, activities, gestures, etc. It can spark excitement in the students, make them want to learn. Encouraging students instills confidence in them. The more confidence they have the more they will participate. Always praise their achievements. When applying proven teaching techniques you should balance the time you spend with one student or group and monitoring the entire class. Also you should constantly do comprehension checks, to make sure the information is being retained. From day one, I think the students should know what you expect out of them and what they can expect from you. An atmosphere of consistency and mutual respect should be established. The rules should be clearly defined and I also believe visible, that way they are constantly reminded. You should avoid using threats to control the class, but if needed be willing to carry it out. Also whenever possible, talk to the student one-on-one instead of across the room, in front of the whole class. Classroom management skills can make or break you as a teacher. With good classroom management, colleagues and parents will take notice. Work Cited http://www.nea.org/tools/management-tips-for-new-teachers.html