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In this unit we will look at some of the most common problem situations that teachers can encounter in the classroom and also ways of dealing with them. First lessons; Such classes fall into two categories, -New group; Here the students don?t know each other and some work will be needed to establish rapport with the students. -Existing group; Here the students are already likely to know and be confortable with each other and familiar with EFL teaching. When faced with a first lesson the experience teacher will not resort to the course book, but will try to use activities that will achieve the following; -Establish rapport between the students and also between the teacher and the class. -Find out about the students. -Find out about the students needs/aspirations with English. There are a number of materials a teacher can use for these purposes; -Questionaire/survey. -A similar type of activity is ?tell us about? which is a board game in keep talking. -Needs analysis. Warmer: They are usually short, fun, communicative activities designed to get students motivated and using English. Typical warmer ideas include; -Pictionary -Tongue twisters. -Memory games. Different levels: One of the biggest problems that teachers face is a group where the students are at varying levels. There are a number of ways the teacher can use to deal with this. -Use of different materials. -Pair stronger students with weaker ones. Large classes: Techniques to create successful classes; -Use worksheets. -Pair/group leaders. -Appoint group leaders. Use of native language: Things the teacher can do to make students avoid using their native language; -Make sure the activities you use are at an appropriate level and that the students have the necessary language to cope. -Encourage the use of English where appropriate. -Only respond in English. Reluctant students: Some ideas to use help with such students include; -Use plenty of pair work. -Use controlled practice. -Use a tap recorder. Difficulties with listening: This seems to be a problem that is common to students of nearly every nationality. As a result many teachers avoid using cassettes. This is not acceptable and the teacher should help the students improve their listening skills. First of all make sure it is a problem with listening skills and not the poor quality of the tape or the volume being too low. To conclude what I have personally learnt from this unit are the common problem situations and how they can be solved and used in the classroom.
