Being a teacher is not easy!
Scratch that!
It is easy!...Although, to be a good teacher, one who educates, inspires, and
encourages is... well, not so easy. For an ESL teacher, there are many potential
problems...
10 Common Classroom Problems - How to solve them...
1. Students become overly dependent on teacher
Many times, students will automatically look to the teacher for correct answers instead of trying themselves. If the teacher obliges them with the answer each time, it can become a detrimental problem. Instead, focus on giving positive encouragement to students. This will help to make students more comfortable and more willing to answer (even if incorrectly).
2. Persistent use of first-language
When teaching English as a foreign language, this is possibly the most common problem. As an ESL teacher, it's important to “encourage” students to use English, and if possible, only English in class. However, if students begin conversing in their first language, move closer to the student. Ask him direct questions like "do you have a question?", “How can I help you?” “What do you want to describe/say?” Use “hand and feet”, mime if you must. Help him to concentrate. He will probably answer you in his native language and at no cost should you make him feel uncomfortable because of that!
Do not force the student to speak English! Forcing the students to only speak English sends a very bad message. You are telling the student that English is superior to their native language. You should NEVER tell a student to stop speaking their native language. Being bilingual supersedes an "americanized" education where English is considered superior to all other languages and cultures. This may not be your intention when telling students not to speak their first language, but it is certainly the message they will receive.
3. Student is defiant, rowdy, or distracting of others
This will happen, no matter what, in every classroom. If the entire class is acting up, it may be the fault of the teacher due to boring material or poor classroom management. If it one particular student, you should react swiftly to show dominance. In order to resolve the issue, an ESL teacher must be strict and discipline the student if needed. If it continues to happen, further disciplinary action through the school's director or talking to a parent could be pursued.
4. Students "hijack lesson" - The lesson doesn't go where you want it to
When teaching English as a foreign language, you can always count on students hijacking a lesson. To some extent, this can be a good thing. It shows that students are interested, and as long as they are participating and conversing in English, it is a productive experience. However, if the lesson strays too far off topic, in a direction you don't want it to go, it's important to correct the problem by diverting the conversation.
5. Personalities between students clash
Not every student in an ESL classroom will become best of friends. If drama arises between certain students, the easiest solution is to separate them away from one another. If the tension persists, switching a student to another classroom or talking to the parent to discuss whether the child is ready for this experience may be options.
6. Student is unclear what do to, or do the wrong thing
This happens far too often when teaching English as a foreign language. The fact is, it's often the fault of the teacher. If your instructions to an assignment yield looks of confusion and soft whispers among students, don't worry, there is a solution. In order to avoid this problem, it's important to make sure your instructions are clear. Use gestures, mime, and short concise sentences. Speak clear and strong. Most importantly, use models and examples of the activity. You can use pictures, draw on the board, exaggerated gestures etc. to model the entire activity exactly how you want the students to do it.
7. Students are bored, inattentive, or unmotivated
Many times, it is the teachers fault that class is boring. Fortunately, with proper planning, this problem can be solved. Choose an exciting theme to the lesson; one that the students can relate to and one you know they will enjoy. This will automatically give them some motivation and interest. Get to know your students and identify their interests and needs then design your course accordingly.
8. Strong student dominance
As an ESL teacher, you will encounter students of different learning capabilities and language skills. While it is good to have some students who excel in the classroom, it is important that they don't take away from others. If certain students begin to constantly "steal the show," take warning. Focus on calling on weaker students in the class to answer questions. Encourage, but gently deflect some answers from the strong students and give production time to other not-so-strong members of the class. Do never challenge a student for trying to show ability or capacity. That would discourage and demotivate him. You don’t want to show preferences in your classroom. Each one is a potential!
9. Students are unprepared
The last thing you want as an ESL teacher is for students to drop out simply because they felt lost and/or unprepared. Concentrate on a more shared learning experience. Make sure students are all on the same page before moving onto a new topic by concept checking multiple times, and encouraging individual participation.
10. Tardiness
Even I have a hard time arriving places on time. But the truth is, tardiness is not only rude, it can be distracting and disruptive of other students. If tardiness becomes a problem for your students, make sure they are disciplined. Set rules about tardiness and penalties for breaking them.
NOTE: If your English level is good and you are interested in teaching ESL, please contact me. I might be able to help you achieve your goal.