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Unit 20 has been beneficial in helping me become familiar to the different groups and common problems that may be faced in the classroom. When meeting a new group for the first time, it will be necessary to establish a rapport with the students. They will more than likely have no knowledge of the EFL methodology. With an existing group the students are more than likely to know each other and be comfortable with EFL teaching. Experienced teachers will use activities in a first lesson to help students get to know each other and the teacher to get to know them. It helps the teacher to plan for future lessons.Helps to find out what the student needs are and what they want to achieve from the English course. Questionnaires are helpful in getting to know each other. There are many activities that help is: board games, pass the ball games. Warmers are a fun way to get the class started at the beginning if lessons. Memory games, pictionary,hangman all help to learn in a more relaxed way and keeps the students engaged. Keep the activity short though. Some students learn quicker than others so it is important to be aware all the time of the different levels where students are at. Large classes need different techniques to keep control. Handout worksheets as this involves all the students and they will gain from the lesson. Make sure your board is visible to everyone and that you speak clearly Pair and groupwork making sure you give clear instructions. Choral repetition as all are involved. Large classes can be challenging but look on this as a positive as classes will be vibrant with lits of ideas and input from the students. Make sure the students don't revert to their native tongue by encouraging them to only speak English in class. Some students may be shy or feel intimidated. It is important to not push them too much. Instead use controlled practice. This helps instill confidence. Role plays are good as students enjoy acting out different scenarios. Pair with encourages support from another student and allows to learn in a safe environment. Have a selection of extra activities on hand for those students who finish their work ahead of others as this prevents boredom arising. A common problem for all students is listening skills. Make sure its not the volume on the tape being too low or poor quality of tape before you devise a plan to help students improve these skills. With good planning you can keep on top of any problems that may arise.
