Teach English in Jing'An Qu [incl. Zhaběi Qu] - Shanghai Shi

Role of the teacher The teacher is very critical in TEFL as he/she is usually the first contact that students have as the native speaker of english. This means that the teacher becomes the student?s role model for the language. Students will tend to mimic the teacher?s accent and pronunciation. It is therefore critical that the teacher embraces this role and realize the importance of it in terms of shaping the students in communicating in english whether it is for educational, leisure or business purposes. The teacher?s role is also to keep the class motivated. A motivate student will be eager to learn. It is important that the teachers keep the class engaged. A motivated student needs to be engaged. The teacher should plan lessons to ensure that there are enough activities to keep the class occupied, ensure that the work is challenging enough so as to not to create boredom, and also to praise students. Giving the students small tokens such as smiley faces and small trinkets can go a long way in keeping the students motivated and full of energy always looking forward to the next class. Another key role of the teacher is to give instructions. Students always look to the teacher for guidance and therefore it is important that instructions given are effective. Instructions can be effective by using simple language. Teachers must be mindful of the level of the students in the class and use appropriate language so that all can understand. The teacher must also be consistent in terms of giving instructions using the same words so that students are aware that an instruction is coming so that they listen up. It is also critical that the teacher cross checks that the students understand the instruction that is given. This can be done by asking a student to repeat the instructions or simply ask if they understand. The teacher can also give an example just in case a student missed part of the instructions so that they are clear on what is required. The teacher role is to create an environment where students can learn and excel. It is critical that teachers establish a good rapport with the students. This can be done by knowing each student?s name so that they feel important. Teachers should also used eye contact to show that ensure that students are all involved in the classroom, gestures to convey the meaning of the language and voice ensuring that he/ she is clear so that everyone is on the same page and no student feels left out. A good rapport with the students means a good learning environment where students can excel. Teachers should always smile, be positive, have the right manner, get the students to help each other, pair students who work well together and the list can go on. These will create a wonderful atmosphere within the classroom. Another role of the teacher is to maintain discipline. Depending on factors such as the age of the students, student?s motivation this can be a big or small problem. In a young learners class this could be a big issue and it is important that the teacher respond to the problem by acting immediately, keeping calm and focus on the behavior and not the student. It is also important the teacher by his/ own action leaves very little time for students to get into trouble. Though problem behavior can stem from many issues other the classroom it is also important the teacher prevents this behavior. In the class room the less engage students are the higher the chances that there will be behavior problems. The teacher can prevent this by being punctual, prepared, consistent, fair, staying calm, establish relationships with the students, showing respect for each student and never getting personal.