Teaching a small group of students is definitely easier than teaching a large class. Unfortunately ESL/EFL teachers can’t usually determine the size of their class. If you are working for an ESL school, you will probably have to teach really large classes. In many schools a class may consist of 50 or 60 students. The students could be hailing from different cultural backgrounds. Some of them might even lack basic communication skills in English.
No matter what the size of your class is, you have to come up with engaging activities that would keep all the students interested and participating. You need to finish your lessons and ensure that all students progress well. Here are some proven strategies that you can employ while teaching large classes.
Advantages of Teaching Large Classes
It is true that large classes can’t be managed easily. On the bright side, they are full of energy. This also means that you will have to cope with a lot of noise and numerous distractions.
The best thing about teaching a large number of students is that classes go by quickly. When you have so many things to keep yourself engaged, you won’t get the time to look at the clock. Since you are unlikely to get the time to finish all the activities you prepared for the class, you might even be able to save some activities for the next class.
Improved Participation
If you have a large number of students in your class, you will always find someone willing to answer questions. On the flip side, you will need to answer many questions, too. If your students ask too many questions, you may not be able to finish the lessons within the stipulated time. If you feel that students are asking too many questions, you could perhaps set aside ten minutes after each class for clearing their doubts. Ask them to ask their questions during those ten minutes. Also make it clear that you won’t entertain questions while you are teaching.