Sunday, September 14, 2008ESL Teacher Blog: First Day Mood
- Most ESL classes start the term with a relaxed first day. Generally, a proper lesson isn’t taught and students aren’t expected to do much work. The day does allow the teacher to take care of a number of administrative matters. The teacher has the opportunity to ensure that students have found the school and are in the right class, books are handed out and course syllabuses are distributed.
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- The first day also allows both the teacher and the students to “check each other out.” First impressions may influence the future performance and outcomes of the class.
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- I like to start on a friendly, but firm tone. I recognize that the first day is the time when I should clearly state rules and policies for the class. I want the students to relax and feel comfortable in the classroom environment. Yet, I also want students to understand what the classroom expectations are and the consequences of not following rules and policies.
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- I also like to play a simple game on the first day. The game itself isn’t important. It doesn’t have to be viewed as a learning opportunity. The game is being played for another reason. It’s being played as an icebreaker. Playing a simple game really lets students relax, gives them the opportunity to use some English, but doesn’t require a great deal of mental concentration. It also gives them the opportunity to interact with their classmates.
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- The game will depend on the level of the class itself. The interaction of the students is vitally important, and will set the tone for the rest of the course.
POSTED BY Cecelia Sumi AT 10:09 PM
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