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Unit 5 was titled: managing classes. In this unit I have had a really good insight on how to manage my future classes. In my opinion, the most important part of the class lesson would of course be the teacher. Her/his role has a significant impact on how the students learn and for that matter-stay focused. The reason for this, and I will be referring mostly to the, is that the teacher is the only person (most of the time) who the students hear to speak English. Therefore, an English teacher is a role model in so many ways. In the unit I have learned to put my focus more on, not only my attitude, but also my position, gestures, eye contact etc. Summing up eye contact: It adds an important part because it firstly shows the student that they all are involved. It maintains discipline, indicates when something is correct or incorrect and encourages contributions. Gestures: on the other hand, is the \"add-on\" in my opinion, to eye contact. I think that you cannot have one or the other, they need to work in unison. for example: It manages the class and maintains discipline along with eye contact. I also think that encouraging gestures goes hand in hand with encouraging eye contact. Gestures also reduces the need for verbal explanation and adds visual interest. Then there is also the \"voice\" of teachers. I have learned that it is important to pay attention to my tone, projection and accountability. Also then in calling out students names, Ive learnt to mention a students name only at the end of the question demanded of him/her. Calling out students names is also helpful to indicate who is to answer or respond and acknowledges the students. I have learned about how classroom grouping and the arrangement works. examples are: Whole class grouping(which allows interaction with any other students), Students working on their own(this allows the teacher to respond to individual differences in pace of learning and ability), pair work(it increases student talking time) and group work(where personal problems will be less problematic). In this unit I have also been taught on when and how to write on a board. For example, I can invite students to come write on the board or have it written ont he board already before the class starts and just cover it with paper. I also took note of when and how I need to give individual attention. I should know the students names, not ask student questions in order and include all equally. Then also, lower the risk of having too much teacher talking time by rather using gestures, mimes or pictures. This unit also taught me how to give instructions effectively. Which will be to use simple English language, being consistent, using visual clues and checking instructions. I should always try to establish good report and class spirit by getting students to help each other, not to supply everything, show personal interest in the students and give clear instructions. I also learned how to maintain discipline, bearing in mind the reasons for problematic behaviour, like peer pressure and class size. I could prevent this by being punctual, well prepared, enthusiastic and never to lose my temper. By responding I should act immediately but keeping with the school's disciplinary code and keeping calm.
