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Establishing Rapport. Although there are many different lesson plans, rules for teaching grammar and vocabulary, and endless amounts of content that could be presented to a classroom, establishing a rapport with students can be just as important. “Rapport is the ability to enter someone else's world, to make them feel that you understand him, that you have a strong common bond” (Robbins, 1). If a teacher establishes a rapport it is motivational. Students, especially younger ones who are not necessarily learning english by choice, may be lacking motivation, or not really feeling like they need to learn english or take it seriously. If the teacher has something in common with them or shows an interest in them personally, they may be more motivated to please the teacher by doing well, or at least try to listen out of respect for someone they connect with. If a teacher establishes a rapport it is interesting. Students of all ages will respond more positively if they personally know something or feel connected with the teacher. If the teacher has a connection with their students, they not only will be motivated to do well, but they will be interested in the topic even subconsciously because the teacher is interested in showing them. According to Dr. John Oda, to build a strong rapport and gain the interaction with students, one must first find basic common ground, or finding something in common with matching the likes and dislikes of the people you are trying to relate with. A second aspect of establishing a rapport is focusing on your appearance. When dressed appropriately for the occasion instead of being over or underdressed, one will fit in more easily in the classroom and allow the students to realize that they will be learning, but that it will be fun the entire time. Under dressing could send an inappropriate message and make coworkers, a boss, or the students feel like one is not going to take the job seriously. Over dressing could make coworkers and employers feel resentful, and in some ways really intimidate the students if that is not how one usually dresses at the school. Although it is very important to be oneself, one must dress for the correct occasion so as to not turn anyone off to hearing what you have to teach. Being understanding of others' situations and points of view are also an important integrated part of establishing an honest rapport with someone. If the teacher comes to class and only shares information about themself but never wants to hear about a student's life or family, they may find that they are being tuned out. Using mirroring has a lot to do with matching things in common. It is important for a teacher to let someone know and point out ways in which they are alike and how they are different. One should call attention and remember what students like or don't like in or to form a better relationship through mirroring. Overall, establishing a rapport is essential to the difference between students actually wanting to be in the class and learning and dreading the entire experience. The happier and more excited someone is, the more likely they will be able to use and relate their new english knowledge to positive experiences in class.
