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In this lesson I learned about common problem situations. In every teaching scenario you will be faced with new classes and new problems. It is important to know how to establish rapport and how to troubleshoot any issues. Classes fall into two categories: New groups and Existing groups. A new group is where the students most likely don't know each other where as an existing group the students have worked together and are comfortable with one another. It is important in a first lesson to establish rapport between students, figure out their needs/aspirations, determine their interests and discover the level of each student. A few activities that can be done are questionnaires, tell us about yourself activities, pass the ball game and a needs analysis.
Another topic that is important is warmers. These are basically ideas to get your students engaged and interested in the lesson you are teaching. A few ideas would be hangman, pictionary, tongue twisters and memory games. It is just important to keep things fun in short.
There are going to be different levels of students which is one of the biggest issues when teaching. It is important to know how to deal with this. A teacher can do a number of things such as use different materials, same materials, different tasks (based on student level), not doing anything and let the student find their own level and pair stronger students with weaker students.
A teacher will also sometimes have very large classes. The larger the class the more difficult it can become. It is important to be organized and know how to manage larger classes. A few techniques are using worksheets, pair work, clarity, choral repetition, group leaders and class dynamics.
Use of native language in the classroom can be another difficult obstacle. Teachers don't want to rule with an iron fist so it is important to make sure you understand and sympathize with students. Make sure activities are appropriate level for students. Explain and be clear with all students for instructions. Also try to encourage as much as you can when appropriate.
Another topic that can be difficult is reluctant students. There are sometimes issues where class members are intimidated or have confidence issues. It's important to recognize this and try to be positive towards them. It is a good idea to use plenty of pair work, use controlled practice, role-play and a tape recorder so students can stay after class to listen to themselves.
Lastly, some students have difficulty with listening texts. It is a common problem with every nationality. Try to be aware that is receptive skills versus something as simple as poor quality of the tape or volume being too low. It could also be whether the lesson is going too fast so you might need to slow it down. Another problem that you can run into is students finishing quicker before others. It is always a good idea to keep extra materials or activities for those students to do so they don't get bored.
