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In this lesson, I was corrected on a few mistakes I have made. When volunteering teaching English, the names were very hard for me to remember. So when I wanted to call on students to answer the questions, I would usually call out the names I knew. I see now that it is better to make sure that everyone's name is called, even if it involves using a name sheet. I appreciated the advice on how to use eye contact in a classroom. I knew that it was important, but I did not know that too much eye contact could be a bad thing, even intimidating. I agree that making eye contact with a quiet student can remind them that they are part of the group. The tips on reducing time writing on the board was also good. We should be taking time to write on the board before class, or when students are doing individual assignments. Teacher talk time takes away from the students' opportunities to use the language for themselves; however, it is still necessary. We need to give lessons, instructions, and examples of how the language should be pronounced. Personally, I like the orderly rows best for seating arrangements, especially when the students sit in the same desk every day, although I do know that this isn't always the best method. I am introverted, and many students are extroverted and want to interact with each other. I would worry with a circular arrangement that everyone looking at me while I am unable to look at all of them at the same time might make me feel insecure, or increase the pressure on me. Having students sit at tables seems like a good solution, because the students can always turn their chairs to look at me during the study phase. I have always found pair work to better than group work, although I have not had any experience with adult students. With teenagers especially, it can be hard for them to stay focused on the task in group work, especially if they have poor motivation to be in the class. Individual work can sometimes be a bad thing, because I have experienced it when a student who does not understand the assignment might be too embarrassed to admit it.
