Aug 24, 2007

Beginning Classroom Procedures

As a new elementary school teacher, I was very excited by the prospect of experimenting with my sack of creative ideas of communicative games, ice breakers, and songs.

I enjoy teaching ESL to young children very much. Young children (as when as older learners) respond more sincerely when the teaching experience becomes personalized.

As a new teacher, I quickly learned that without an effective classroom management program your teaching will not cover enough serious ground as students will be testing the limits of how they can and cannot behave in the classroom.

Before you introduce any fun or creative stuff, children need to know that you are the boss and you are in charge. For many new teachers, this is part of the institutionalization that occurs once and forever.

So, first strive for good and effective system of classroom organization and stick to one that works for you.

Keep your classroom seating charts closeby and make notes of any potential problems occuring with seating. Keep abreast of all students' names. try to learn them as quickly as you can so as to further direct communication.

Always have plan B for those uncooperative students and for lesson plans that don't work out. This is the reason why many lessons don't always work. You will have both good and bad days. Learn what made your students tick and why they behaved poorly. It is a good idea to keep a journal for all those lessons. Talking about it with your mentor is also an excellent way to open the doors of communication.

Always remember you are not alone and there are plenty of helpful resources both online and offline. Don't hesitate to email with any questions or concerns you may have.