If you want to get better at managing an ESL classroom, then you’re in the right place. We have tips, tricks, strategies and more for TEFL classroom management.
Are you struggling to manage your ESL classroom and feel like your head in maybe going to explode from the chaos and stress? Yes? Then you’re certainly in the right place.
Help is here! Keep on reading for all the detail you need to know about ESL Classroom Management Tips and Tricks. If this doesn’t help you get your classroom under control, then probably nothing will!
No ESL Classroom Management Skills? I’ve Been There
Maybe you’re kind of like me. I remember back to my first couple of years teaching kids in a hagwon (private institute) in South Korea when I had no idea what I was doing. The kids totally took advantage of this situation and I had very little control over my classroom.
Of course, this situation was really stressful for me and not much in the way of learning was happening. Over the years, I’ve figured things out, but I hope that I can help you level up your teaching game and avoid the year or two of chaos in the ESL classroom.
TEFL Classroom Management Tips
If you want a few tips about classroom management, check out these articles. The book is like this, but just with way more detail and awesome stuff.
A Student Refuses to Participate. Here’s What to Do
Giving Instructions: Tips for ESL Teachers
What do you think? Exactly what you might need for your English classes when teaching abroad? This is just a small taste of what you can find in the book.
How do you Deal with Disruptive Students ESL?
Let’s face it, every teacher has some difficult and disruptive students. It’s a fact of life and often has nothing to do with you (although sometimes it does!). Don’t take it personally but instead, work with the student to correct their behaviour and ensure a good learning environment for everyone.
Here’s some advice for dealing with a disruptive ESL student:
- Set up clear expectations for behaviour at the beginning of the course.
- Enforce these expectations fairly, consistently and with compassion.
- Plan proper lessons with topics that are interesting to the students.
- Use a variety of games and activities to create some fun in the classroom.
- Try to avoid dead time where nothing is going on.
- Seating arrangements can be a good tool for separating groups of students who are disruptive when they’re together.
- Practice positive reinforcement.
- Enlist the help of the disruptive student to take attendance, hand out class papers, clean the whiteboard or do other small tasks.
- Get help, if necessary from the school administration.
- Learn students’ names or use name tags.
ESL Classroom Management Tips and Tricks
- Booker Smith, Jennifer (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 84 Pages - 12/25/2015 (Publication Date) - CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (Publisher)
Over on Amazon, you can get ESL Classroom Management Tips and Tricks: For Teachers of Students Ages 6-12. In the book, you’ll:
- Learn how to get the entire class involved.
- Discover how to plan a lesson and organize your class.
- Learn motivation and discipline strategies that work.
- Get some tips for forging a strong, productive relationship with your co-teacher.
- Prepare yourself with go-to activities for those “surprise” classes.
- And so much more!
The book is available in both print and digital formats. The (cheaper!) digital format can be read on any smartphone, tablet, Mac or PC by downloading the free Kindle app.
Keep a copy on the bookshelf in your office as a handy reference guide. Or, the digital version on your phone for lesson planning and learning on the go. It really is that easy to have some better English classes with kids.
A Must-Read for Elementary School Teachers
If you teach English to elementary school kids, read the book, and don’t pick up at least three things you can use in your class tomorrow, get in touch with me and I’ll refund your money.
It truly is the book I wish I had when I first started teaching. And it certainly would have helped make me a better teacher much faster than just trying to pick stuff up on my own.
Ideal for Newbies, or Experienced Teachers Too
If you’re just getting started out with teaching English abroad, then you’re going to love this book. It’ll help you avoid so, so, so many mistakes and will get your classes started off on the right foot. It’s not unusual to get thrown to the wolves (large classes of children!) a few hours after getting off the plane. Read this book on the plane to get yourself ready, okay?
However, maybe you’re an experienced teacher. Is this book a waste of time? Not at all! We’re also confident that you’ll pick up a few new tips or ideas to make your classes even better than they already area. Seriously. You’ll love it.
Get your Copy Today
Get the book today, and have a less stressful class tomorrow. But, only if you want to get yourself some of that ESL awesome. Click the link below to learn more on Amazon and also to find the best prices:
—>ESL Classroom Management Tips and Tricks on Amazon<—
FAQs
There are a number of common questions that people have about managing a classroom. Here are the answers to some of the most popular ones.
What is classroom management in ESL?
Classroom management in ESL is all about figuring out what works for both you and the students. It involves using strategies to manage materials, resources, and people effectively to make it a positive learning environment.
How do you discipline ESL students?
The key to disciplining ESL students is to avoid problems in the first place. Have clear, firm expectations in place from the start of the course and enforce them consistently. If problems do happen, don’t be afraid to stop the class, explain what the wrong behaviour is and suggest a better course of action in the future.
What are the C’s of classroom management?
The 3 C’s of classroom management are connection, consistency, and compassion. Keep these in mind when facing your most challenging students or classes.
What are the five components of classroom management?
The five components of classroom management are:
- Working to develop good working relationships with students.
- Training students on how effective learning happens in the classroom.
- Preventing problems with an effective lesson plan and avoiding downtime.
- Establishing behaviour standards at the beginning of the course.
- Enforcing behavioural standards with consistency, kindness and compassion.
More Tips and Tricks for Managing a TEFL Classroom
Check out this video for even more ideas on how to manage a language-learning classroom:
What are the most Important Things for Managing Difficult Students?
Managing difficult students can be challenging, but with the right approach and strategies, it is possible to create a positive and productive learning environment. Here are some important things to consider when managing difficult students:
Build a positive teacher-student relationship
Establishing a positive rapport with difficult students is crucial. Show empathy, respect, and genuine interest in their well-being. Take time to understand their individual needs, strengths, and challenges. By building a strong relationship, you can gain their trust and cooperation.
Set clear expectations
Clearly communicate your expectations regarding behavior, classroom rules, and academic performance. Make sure students understand the consequences of their actions and the benefits of meeting expectations. Reinforce these expectations consistently and fairly.
Provide a structured and supportive environment
Create a structured classroom environment that promotes learning and minimizes distractions. Provide clear routines, consistent schedules, and well-organized materials. Offer support through differentiated instruction, individualized learning plans, and additional resources when necessary.
Use positive behavior reinforcement
Recognize and reward positive behaviors and achievements. Praise and encourage difficult students when they exhibit appropriate behavior or make progress. Consider using incentives, such as small rewards or privileges, to motivate and reinforce positive choices.
Implement effective classroom management techniques
Utilize various classroom management strategies to maintain order and engage difficult students. These may include proximity control (being physically close to the student), non-verbal cues, positive redirection, and active student engagement techniques like hands-on activities, group work, and discussions.
Address underlying issues
Difficult behavior often stems from underlying issues such as emotional challenges, learning disabilities, or personal problems. Seek to identify and address these issues, either by collaborating with support staff (counselors, special education teachers, etc.) or involving parents/guardians. Provide necessary accommodations or modifications to help students succeed academically and behaviorally.
Foster a positive classroom culture
Promote a positive and inclusive classroom culture where respect, kindness, and cooperation are valued. Encourage students to understand and appreciate each other’s differences. Teach conflict resolution and social-emotional skills to help students manage their emotions and resolve conflicts peacefully.
Communicate with parents/guardians
Maintain open lines of communication with parents/guardians. Share both positive and concerning behaviors or academic progress. Seek their input and involvement in developing strategies to support the student’s success. Collaboration between home and school is often essential for managing difficult students effectively.
Seek professional development and support
Continuous professional development can enhance your skills in managing difficult students. Attend workshops, conferences, or training sessions focused on classroom management, behavior management, and working with challenging students. Seek support from colleagues, administrators, or mentors who can provide guidance and advice.
ESL Classroom Management: Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts about teaching kids? Do you have any tips or tricks for effectively managing your classroom?
Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Also be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. There are probably lots of other teachers who may find it useful.
Oh yeah, do you want to make some serious cash teaching English abroad? Have a look at the highest-paying English teaching jobs abroad.
Last update on 2022-07-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API