My answer to the first question goes this way...For me if ever I encountered such students or maybe I am encountering now, why I said this that am encountering this kind of situation now? Because in the Academy where I am teaching, there are some students/pupils who are not interested to learn the English language. They are just forced by their parents to attend private English classes for the reason that the alloted time for English subject in their respective schools is very short and not enough for them to learn fast, specially those who are slow learners because of the large number of students in every classes. Going back to the question, I am advicing my students/pupils specially those who are under me(or even not) that they have to study hard in their English subject just like what they do in Korean language or other subjects because aside from this is part of the school curiculum, this is also a preparation for their future career. As we all know that we are in a global competition nowadays where in English language is one of the very important factors as it is the International language. The medium of communication wherever continents you are belong to. Another is, I will tell some inspirational stories about the language and always make fun in a form of exciting games in all leasons that we may undertake. And then I'll cultivate/enculcate in their minds that English is easy not a difficult one. Because the more you think it is difficult, the more it is become, I don't know if you will agree with me but that is my notion.And that is my guiding principle while I am studying and even until now. It is applicable in any situations you are IN.
I was the one who gave up studying English back in high school days. Egnlish was the very challening and difficult subject to me, and nobody helped me get out of my Egnlish depression. However, when I became a unvirsity student, I started to study English by myself due to my dream, 'Exprience the wrold'. I believe slef-motivation is the most important factor to studying something new. THerefore, I tried to talk about my English history to students and remind them how big the world is and how small Korea is. Since most students want to travel other conturies, they not only love to hear the story of backpack, but also become motivatd somehow.
Most younger students don't know why they learn English. Generally, they study English because of their parents' demand. So there is time when I have difficulty teaching them English. Whenever that time, I try to make them feel interested in English. I make some games that can give interest to younger students and I use good sticker and bad sticker. When they answer my question and take part in the class actively, I give them good sticker. And then the students save it. At the end of the month, they exchange the sticker with things they want. It is really helpful to inspire younger students.
Generally speaking... with preparedness and a high level of enthusiasm on the teacher's part, otherwise unmotivated students can change their tune. Lessons must be interesting and tailored to the age and ability level of the student, of course. If a lesson has been prepared that is too advanced for the class-level, the teacher is responsible for their students' lack of interest/participation.
One more thought on lessons: It can be especially problematic when you have one class with many different levels and requires even stronger planning on the part of the teacher. In this case, I'd actually attribute lack of motivation to the person or persons who believe it is a good idea to mix the levels.
I am not a huge "game" teacher, personally, but I see the merits of these activities and use them on occasion. I have seen the effect of too many games, though, and the students become lethargic when it's time to do "less exciting" work. Games can be a nice break from regular studies, but they should not be the sole means of mastering objectives.
So if all of the above fits and there are still sleepy, unmotivated students who don't care about learning English... well, I'm not there to wipe their noses and faces if they didn't bring any tissue. Encouragement only goes so far and then the whole class is negatively affected when too much time is spent nurturing. I can understand and am much more patient with young learners. With older students, the bottom line is: If you aren't gonna be here, don't be here. I'm not your mother.
It's really difficult to inspire this kind of students to study English. Even my children complain about why they should study other country's language this hard. To learn L2 needs motivation definitely. But these students who doesn't have any reason and motivation to learn English don't understand the situation that we should learn English. Futhermore they hate to accept this situation. The subject, 'English' plays one of the most important roles in school.
I don't think English is mere the language of some countries. It becomes global language in the world. We need to communicate with one language each other. That is English now. So I try to have my students change their attitude for learning English. But some students still don't care about it. fortunately they dont' fall asleep in class. I make an effort to make them feel English is interesting by fun activities.
In order to inspire students who see no reason to learn to use English, I would like to establish an appropriate relationship with them first. Also I would like to find their personalities and styles of learning so that I can help them to be more effective learners. At the same time, I would make them recognise how they are different and that each student has a different kinds of abilites in learning English. And then, I would like to give a chance to them talk about their future's dreams and that why learning English is need to make their dreams come true.
Sometimes some younger students get bored and give up easily during the classes. So those who teach younger students should always take care of their feelings, as well as teaching them English. In my case, when I see the students who get bored or see no reason to learn English, I start playing games especially competitive games. I try to make them not think of studying English but enjoy playing games. Although the activities are related to learning English, the students may focus on winning the competition, not on learning English. In order to win the game they have to use English and practice English. This way they get more motivated naturally.
I strongly think that nobody is unhappy when they feel they are good at something. What I mean by that is I make my students(especially younger students) feel that they are doing really good at English to inspire them.
At first, I give well planned and prepared classes in order that they can fully understand what they are learning. Secondly,whenever I notice their progress, I always provide appropriate(a lot of not too much) compliments to my students-through oral, written comments, stickers ,a big hand given by classmates and etc. To get my praises, they don't need to make too much efforts. Not only when they show me big advances, but also when they improve just a little bit such as confidently participating in class, doing homework with really neat handwriting, making perfect(or better) pronunciation or getting better fluency than before when speaking, I make proper compliments according to the students' level and ages.
For a long time,I have seen how much those praises are effective and that they are becoming more and more enthusiastic for learning English. To do it, I shoud be quite precise and alert about my students' changes. It's not always easy to maintain alertness but rewarding enough.
Depending on how young the students are, I would most likely vary my approach.
For very young learners, I feel the best way to reach students who are uninteresting in learning English, would be to utilize games in the classroom. As well, using fun visual aids such as videos and sound effects, can not only draw the students into the lesson but also make it easier for them to remember the language being taught by using associative techniques.
For younger learners who may be able to think further into their future, I would try to interest them by suggesting possible uses for their potential English skills. This might include the ability to travel to other counties using English as the "universal" language.
How do you inspire younger students who see no reason to learn to use English?
Generally speaking, younger students have a short attention span and easily get bored. So, it is important for English teachers to make their classes fun. In an EFL situation, giving many opportunities to use English in the classroom is vital. When they feel English is a useful means of communication, they will be more eager to learn. As teachers fill their classroom with various activities such as simulation, role play, games, songs, and chants, students use English with their peers to perform these activities. Positive reinforcement is essential, and candies or achievement boards can be used to motivate younger students.
When I teach 14 year old students - the 1st year of middle school - I can see that many of them do not think there is any reason to learn English. First, I tried to explain why they need to learn English and how it is important. However, it did not work. Second, I gave them some delicious food like candy, cookies and bread. It made them interested and focused on studying. I think food is the best method to inspire young students.
However, when I teach 18 year old students they already know why they have to study hard. Therefore, I do not need to inspire them to study. I just need to keep them awake but most times I fail to teach them a lesson that they find interesting. I use Essential Grammar and TEPS. Actually, learning grammar and preparing for an exam are not fun but the main reason that students sleep is my teaching skill.
That is the reason why I am taking this TESOL course. I did not major in English and I did not learn how to teach English. I have no idea but I am an English teacher right now. It's been a year since I start this job. I really want to have a class that students like to take.
Most of all, it is very sad to see a student who doesn't have any reason to study English. It is also a kind of demotivating myself. I often say to the student about his future life. Whatever he does in his future, English is the one of essential components that he has to have. Because he may live, study and make business with other nation's people, the language ability that make him communicate with other people is important living skill. But unfortunately, there may be a case that I fail to motivate them, even though I tried to make my best efforts for them. In that case, I counsel with their parents, suggesting that it would be better stopping study for a while than letting them sleep through lessons. Because I am an institute teacher, I can't receive the tuition fee without teaching. And their depressive mood can give bad influence to other students. They may understand the reason they have to study as they grow up.
How do you inspire younger students who see no reason to learn to use English?
When I was middle school student I really did not know why I learn English and I thought there is no reason to learn English. Because I was not interested to learn the English language. I was just forced by school to attend English classes. But when I lived in India a three years ago, I felt why I have to learn English. That time I knew that is so important thing in all around world. If I did not know English at all, I could not live in India. They are taught every subject with English since elementary school in India. So the most Indian people can speak English and they teach Yoga with English to foreigner. I wanted to learn Yoga Why I lived in India that time. So most of all I needed to learn English for learning Yoga. So I have this experience If I am teacher I will tell my experience and I will try to explain why students need to learn English and how it is important.
I've been teaching English for 3 years and met more than 2,500 students. Among them, I found few who are interested in English.
I think most students were pushed to come and learn English to the institute by their parents. Indeed students are taught by only focused on getting higher score on the test. That's why most students take learning English as a boring and stress subject.
To change and inspire the students, I try to explain the reason why they need to study English hard in many different views.
Mostly I tell the students many advantages of learning English based on my experiences. Whenever I share my experieces, students tend to draw their attention easily. And they feel fresh and more reality.
What I share things are ; I backpacked more than 18 countries. I lived the Phillippines for 3months and Canada for a year and half. I have many foreign friends all over the world. I've got higher score and got good job and so on.
When I share these experiences, I focus on English is an universal language. I don't only simply tell the experiences but also let the students think about many benefits of learning.
Especially I emphazise that English is not a subject but a communication tool. So I tell students that learning English and being fluent in it make them meet broaden opportunities such as traveling all over the world, living other country with comparative ease.
One more thing that I don't miss is, encourging students by praises. I also keep saying that 'Don't be afraid of making mistakes.' When they get praises, students get more confidence and self-motivated.
As a result student start to get interest on studying and also get better score on the test. I hope to see all students learn English with fun!
We can inspire younger students to learn english by changing their views towards the need of learning the new language, as well as making the learning process more interactive and fun. This interactive process could be initiated by encouraging them to watch english movies of popular titles for younger students, as well as using english intensive computer software applications such as Msn or Facebook. Once they are familiar with or make use of these entertainment systems in their daily routine, they would slowly develop a liking for the english language and would therefore have a strong desire to learn it, in a hope to one day became fluent english speakers.
As I have noticed to L2 students most of them have no interest to study. I've asked them why you enrolled in this class. The reason is because of their parents. Students never know yet the importance of knowing English language. So I explained them the importance. I can speak and translate in Korean. so they feel comfortable with me.I observe students interest and make activities that they would like. I prepared lots of visual aids, materials,chants,games,story,activities an d so on.so I ask them to open and give some opinion so they enjoyed my class and feel satisfaction and interest.Clear explanation helps much that English is fun. I emphasized them English is not difficult as what they think. Some students showed no interest at all but if they like the activities they will participate . The most important factor is how to stimulate students interest.
I should offer some amusements which are related to learning English for younger students. Most young students are interested in characters from cartoons or animations, so they enjoy collecting cards, stickers or other things of the character which they like. Therefore, These materials can be very useful item to teach english to students) when younger students learn English. For example, teachers teach English using the theme song of cartoons which is translated to English, and if younger students study hard, teachers give some rewards such as cards or stickers of the character to their students. I think that younger students can learn English easily through playing or activities without explaining it, so I can inspire younger students to learn English actively by using materials which involve characters that they prefer as an edutainment.
In my case, I show half a movie with subtitles to my kids then break up the second half into smaller sections that play without subtitles. Then I break them up into groups to discuss what happened in the part of the movie they just watched without subtitles. Although they might discuss it in their own native language, they are still trying to understand the movie and have their own opinions about it. The fun is in the discussions, the motivation is in the reward at the end for getting closest to the storyline, and the byproduct happens to be studying english.
As for the second question, I believe that while trying to teach a child, I fail at the moment I give up. As long as I don't give up and keep at it, it'll someday get through to them and will leave knowledge or even something else useful for them to use later on in life. I have not given up on any child yet, so I have yet to admit failure.
If the students who no reason to learn to use English, it's the most important that who have to take interest for English no matter what are movies, games anc comic books ect. I think it's called motivation. In my case, when I was young, I really wanted read the letter from friend who was Cadian. That is why I was interested in English. My English is still terrible but I want to develope my ability go on.
And enjoyment is also important. Boring class makes the students more indifferent. Using the various materials(as I mentioned sing a song, watching move, playing games..)are good ways to impress. Teachers have to try to make them take exciting.
Although we don't know English, we are well fed, clad and housed. But when we talk English with foreiger or travel other countries, we can get the feeling of achievement or so. It's also the great pleasure. If teachers tell the experinces directly or indirectly, it's helpful students who no reason to learn to use English to inspire them.
I think every action has every reason. If a student doesn't have any reason to learn English or other things, he or she may have had a bad experience like his or her first English teacher was terrible. But To make their mind and the image about English change into something motivating is teachers' duty, I think. To give them encouragement and motivation, preparing for stories of experience and success would be also necessary, because actually they don’t realize that competent English speakers can get more chance to do what they want in the future and it is not the problem about nationalism and inferiority, but profit and reality.
I have taught a junior high school student English as a tutor a long time ago. Even though she knew enough vocabulary to make basic sentences, she didn't know how to use the sentences properly. The problem was she didn't even know why she was studying this language and wasn't interested in learning it at all.
On my first day teaching her, I told her the reason why I learned this language. I learned English to be able to experience more of the world, not like typical students who want to get a good job in the future. I showed her my pictures which were taken in many beautiful countries and my e-mails from my foreign friends.
More over, I invited some of my foreign friends that were in Korea to our class. By letting her realize how useful and fantastic learning English was, she soon found many reasons why she needs to learn English.
I taught her, not only with the text books, but also with magazines, diaries, newspapers, and pop-songs. She is now a university student, and she said without me, she would never have found the reason to learn English.
Actually when I was a student from a Junior high school to undergraduate student, I didn`t know why I have to study English. I had studied English without any goal before I went to study abroad. But I realized that studying English can give us more opportunities to study many subjects with various references. For instance, there are many books about western history in Korean. But It’s not enough to study with these references only. For studying western history, we should study English and French and so on… by doing so we can study this subject in detail and approach the closer knowledge. This is one example only. Even so we are Koreans and will stay in Korea whole life, we can not avoid studying English because of culture. Western culture affects on our life in various aspects. If I have a young student who sees no reason to learn to use English, I will explain him or her about these reasons I mentioned above.
A few days ago, my students took an examination about English word for elementary student. The result of an examination was very terrible. Only student of 20% successfully passed it. I asked them why the score was low. I heard several answers. For example, “ I don’t know why I must learned English.” “Learning English has no interest for me.” “When I see the letter of English, I have a headache.” “I will live only Korea all my life. So I think that I don’t need to learn it.” At that time, I thought how to say them. I told them that learning English need to make their dreams. – If you want to be a famous cook, you may study abroad or go abroad for finding new taste. Since then, some students try to study English. But the other students don’t like learning English still, so it is the source of my trouble.
In my school days, I have bad memories about English grammar class. I'm not good at English grammar. So I have no confidence. Even this class was really bored. But teachers required that we had to study about national scholastic achievement examination for the college entrance. I couldn't understand it. So I studied hard English conversation more then grammar. If I felt English grammar were fun, I must have studied hard with English conversation. Now I'm teaching English to kids. I am always worried about how can I teach funny and simply to them. I think that they need praise more than punishment. They don't understand why they have to study English hard. They accept just one of activity time. So I focus on "English is fun.", "I can learn English easily." I think that the most important thing is teacher's motivation to students' volition of studying. I try hard not to at least lose their volition.
If younger students who see no reason to learn to use English ask me that “Should all younger students learn to use English?” My answer is “No” as like the younger students. However, I want to explain that English will help the younger students to see new world and give them some opportunity. So, I’d like to inspire the students by three ways.
First of all, I will show them some data which is how many people use English for communication and more over 30% of world people use English. It means that we can meet and communicate with foreigner for understanding their thinking and culture more deeply through using English. I will explain them that it helps you to overcome local limitation and open new world.
Secondly, In Korea, it is necessary to learn to use English to enter a good company, university. Although a good company and university is not all for your life, it will help us to have a lot of opportunities rather than someone who doesn’t use English. For example, we could earn more salary and get knowledge.
Finally, I will find the reason to use English with them through travel. I had an experience that I had travel in America with my friend for 6 months. I usually spoke English to buy ticket and find areas (whatever for trip) instead of him, but he could just rely on me because he couldn’t speak English well. After the trip, he had found the reason why he should learn English during 6 months.
In brief, I will show the data, how to find a good opportunity, and travel for them who don’t know the reason to learn to use English.
I tell them if they follow the my way they can get stickers, candy or other presents. If they don't want any other presents I suggest the games. But if they don't want any of these things than I think it the time in their life to study. Maybe they need to think deeply or take a break and than if they feel necessary to study English than after they can come and study. In my class (I'm a kindergarden teacher now) other students say something to them.Like,"You have to do this and hen you will get something" or "We will win the game.So you have to this". Before that I put them in he mood to study.
I believe that motivation is essential for studying English. Why do students have to learn English? Korea has made English one of the required subject in school even though we are in the country where main and only language is Korean. When I was little child, I had a thought why we should learn English when we have Korean language to use in our disposal. Adults always said that it is important to learn English. In my friend case, she started learn English with help of friend's sister by listening to Pop-songs. Although, there are limitations, still it was fun way to learn English easily. Today, I always tell students to try English novels and comics, or movies and songs, at the same time, tell them that English is global language which it is almost always used in trade and presentation when they become adults and have a job. Thus, it is important to prepare yourself; even the companies will prefer a candidate with fluent English. I also always tell them that with fluent English, it will be more efficient to handle your work with more reward in the future.
I don't have experience to teach English except when I was a student teacher. Actually I was a student teacher last month in a middle school. I had to have a open class( that is .. some teachers come to my class and watch and evaluate my teaching). I was so worried about that I should speak English only during my class because I thought students feel so boring. So I focused on an antive class. And I decided to prepare my class to make 3-D glasses and explain how to make it and why it works. My class succeeded becuase no one sleep during the class. Even though some students sais "Thanks teacher, That was great class. very interesting, actually I can't understand all of what you tells, but I feel first English is interesting." for her speaking I could get confidence to teach English. The succeeded factor is,, focusing in active class. They make their 3-D glasses and explain how to make it in English ans then they feel English is interesting. So thesedays there are many useful and interesting materials. we can find those easily. Teachers need enough time to prepare an active class. When students feel that the class is interesting, they will study. I dont want to be a teacher to make students sleep. So I need practice and study harder.
Pyo Hyun-hwa(WA) I do not agree that. In Korea, English is a second foreign language. So I think using only English on English class helps students develop more and more. But it has a limit. That is to understand all meanings or contents is difficult for our students. In my experience, our students are sometimes faced with understanding a story structure and organization. When suffering the difficulties, to explaining in Korean is good for our students. Therefore I need to use Korean properly for more successful English classes in Korea.
I wnat to be a good teacher so I really try to be friently to the student who are forced by their mon into the class. Most of them can start to be intersted in teachers and they find out English intereting. I really happy for those students to try to study English in my class.
I had taught those students sometimes. I had a lesson with a little bit easy subjets for them. Therefore I could make them imprve their interest in English. After that, they had engourage in studying English. That's my own exprience.
As the factors of concluding the human behaviors are able to describe many ways, but for my think that the learning motivation is consciousness of one’s purpose and interesting of the subject. I believe the student is going to find a motivation by provide these two things. The lists of “Purpose of studying English” is, 1. To go to the university 2. To get a job 3. Because it is faster than teaching Korean to the world. In fact, all the students know that these lists since they were baby. Even though they know the reason, they don’t want to study. The reason is, definitely interesting. These things decreased the interesting, 1. Difficulty, low grade 2. Punishment by falter in class or comparison with other one. 3. Hate the teacher for some reasons, or non-humor teacher Is is very difficult that to describe the reason of study to student. Because each students has different think, philosophy, worldview, and purpose. Some student really hard to find the reason, even wash his/her eyes constantly. But for these student, if the teacher provide some fun, interesting, favorable impression, and good feeling, they are going to study English even they need not.
It's not easy to inspire students who don't want to learn English. They usually don't participate in activities of a class actively or positively and even more sometimes disturb other students who want to learn English. For other students and themselves teachers have to manage and heip them. But how can we make them get invove to a class of their own free will? I think it will be the best way to give them a chance to have intrinsic motivation such as "Why do they have to learn English?", or "Why is English getting important now days?" or "What are the strong points to use English fluently and effectively?" And connecting English to their interests and dreams which are jobs they want to have will be effective too. Also making them to understand importance of language, English as a kind of tool not just a foreign language is really needed for these students I think.
Young children learn from what they see, hear and touch and they like to interact with things around them. They prefer moving to sitting down quietly. They have a limited attention span and a lot of curiosity. To inspire them, I need many teaching materials which is visible. They can learn easily not from explanation but from play. Play is learning for children. In my case, first, I cause their curiosity by pictures or surprising teaching tools made by myself. And I let them guess what to make them know some words. Second, I let them practice some words with games(especially with physical movement). And third, I sing with them. I think children prefer more speedy songs to silent songs. Sometimes I let them draw and make things. And last, I praise them frequently. Praise is great way to inspire them.
My answer to the first question goes this way...For me if ever I encountered such students or maybe I am encountering now, why I said this that am encountering this kind of situation now? Because in the Academy where I am teaching, there are some students/pupils who are not interested to learn the English language. They are just forced by their parents to attend private English classes for the reason that the alloted time for English subject in their respective schools is very short and not enough for them to learn fast, specially those who are slow learners because of the large number of students in every classes.
ReplyDeleteGoing back to the question, I am advicing my students/pupils specially those who are under me(or even not) that they have to study hard in their English subject just like what they do in Korean language or other subjects because aside from this is part of the school curiculum, this is also a preparation for their future career. As we all know that we are in a global competition nowadays where in English language is one of the very important factors as it is the International language. The medium of communication wherever continents you are belong to.
Another is, I will tell some inspirational stories about the language and always make fun in a form of exciting games in all leasons that we may undertake. And then I'll cultivate/enculcate in their minds that English is easy not a difficult one. Because the more you think it is difficult, the more it is become, I don't know if you will agree with me but that is my notion.And that is my guiding principle while I am studying and even until now. It is applicable in any situations you are IN.
I was the one who gave up studying English back in high school days. Egnlish was the very challening and difficult subject to me, and nobody helped me get out of my Egnlish depression. However, when I became a unvirsity student, I started to study English by myself due to my dream, 'Exprience the wrold'. I believe slef-motivation is the most important factor to studying something new. THerefore, I tried to talk about my English history to students and remind them how big the world is and how small Korea is. Since most students want to travel other conturies, they not only love to hear the story of backpack, but also become motivatd somehow.
ReplyDeleteMost younger students don't know why they learn English. Generally, they study English because of their parents' demand. So there is time when I have difficulty teaching them English. Whenever that time, I try to make them feel interested in English. I make some games that can give interest to younger students and I use good sticker and bad sticker. When they answer my question and take part in the class actively, I give them good sticker. And then the students save it. At the end of the month, they exchange the sticker with things they want. It is really helpful to inspire younger students.
ReplyDeleteGenerally speaking... with preparedness and a high level of enthusiasm on the teacher's part, otherwise unmotivated students can change their tune. Lessons must be interesting and tailored to the age and ability level of the student, of course. If a lesson has been prepared that is too advanced for the class-level, the teacher is responsible for their students' lack of interest/participation.
ReplyDeleteOne more thought on lessons: It can be especially problematic when you have one class with many different levels and requires even stronger planning on the part of the teacher. In this case, I'd actually attribute lack of motivation to the person or persons who believe it is a good idea to mix the levels.
I am not a huge "game" teacher, personally, but I see the merits of these activities and use them on occasion. I have seen the effect of too many games, though, and the students become lethargic when it's time to do "less exciting" work. Games can be a nice break from regular studies, but they should not be the sole means of mastering objectives.
So if all of the above fits and there are still sleepy, unmotivated students who don't care about learning English... well, I'm not there to wipe their noses and faces if they didn't bring any tissue. Encouragement only goes so far and then the whole class is negatively affected when too much time is spent nurturing. I can understand and am much more patient with young learners. With older students, the bottom line is: If you aren't gonna be here, don't be here. I'm not your mother.
:)
It's really difficult to inspire this kind of students to study English. Even my children complain about why they should study other country's language this hard. To learn L2 needs motivation definitely. But these students who doesn't have any reason and motivation to learn English don't understand the situation that we should learn English. Futhermore they hate to accept this situation. The subject, 'English' plays one of the most important roles in school.
ReplyDeleteI don't think English is mere the language of some countries. It becomes global language in the world. We need to communicate with one language each other. That is English now. So I try to have my students change their attitude for learning English. But some students still don't care about it. fortunately they dont' fall asleep in class. I make an effort to make them feel English is interesting by fun activities.
In order to inspire students who see no reason to learn to use English, I would like to establish an appropriate relationship with them first. Also I would like to find their personalities and styles of learning so that I can help them to be more effective learners.
ReplyDeleteAt the same time, I would make them recognise how they are different and that each student has a different kinds of abilites in learning English.
And then, I would like to give a chance to them talk about their future's dreams and that why learning English is need to make their dreams come true.
Sometimes some younger students get bored and give up easily during the classes. So those who teach younger students should always take care of their feelings, as well as teaching them English.
ReplyDeleteIn my case, when I see the students who get bored or see no reason to learn English, I start playing games especially competitive games. I try to make them not think of studying English but enjoy playing games. Although the activities are related to learning English, the students may focus on winning the competition, not on learning English.
In order to win the game they have to use English and practice English. This way they get more motivated naturally.
I strongly think that nobody is unhappy when they feel they are good at something. What I mean by that is I make my students(especially younger students) feel that they are doing really good at English to inspire them.
ReplyDeleteAt first, I give well planned and prepared classes in order that they can fully understand what they are learning.
Secondly,whenever I notice their progress, I always provide appropriate(a lot of not too much) compliments to my students-through oral, written comments, stickers ,a big hand given by classmates and etc. To get my praises, they don't need to make too much efforts. Not only when they show me big advances, but also when they improve just a little bit such as confidently participating in class, doing homework with really neat handwriting, making perfect(or better) pronunciation or getting better fluency than before when speaking, I make proper compliments according to the students' level and ages.
For a long time,I have seen how much those praises are effective and that they are becoming more and more enthusiastic for learning English. To do it, I shoud be quite precise and alert about my students' changes.
It's not always easy to maintain alertness but rewarding enough.
Depending on how young the students are, I would most likely vary my approach.
ReplyDeleteFor very young learners, I feel the best way to reach students who are uninteresting in learning English, would be to utilize games in the classroom. As well, using fun visual aids such as videos and sound effects, can not only draw the students into the lesson but also make it easier for them to remember the language being taught by using associative techniques.
For younger learners who may be able to think further into their future, I would try to interest them by suggesting possible uses for their potential English skills. This might include the ability to travel to other counties using English as the "universal" language.
How do you inspire younger students who see no reason to learn to use English?
ReplyDeleteGenerally speaking, younger students have a short attention span and easily get bored. So, it is important for English teachers to make their classes fun. In an EFL situation, giving many opportunities to use English in the classroom is vital. When they feel English is a useful means of communication, they will be more eager to learn. As teachers fill their classroom with various activities such as simulation, role play, games, songs, and chants, students use English with their peers to perform these activities. Positive reinforcement is essential, and candies or achievement boards can be used to motivate younger students.
When I teach 14 year old students - the 1st year of middle school - I can see that many of them do not think there is any reason to learn English. First, I tried to explain why they need to learn English and how it is important. However, it did not work. Second, I gave them some delicious food like candy, cookies and bread. It made them interested and focused on studying. I think food is the best method to inspire young students.
ReplyDeleteHowever, when I teach 18 year old students they already know why they have to study hard. Therefore, I do not need to inspire them to study. I just need to keep them awake but most times I fail to teach them a lesson that they find interesting. I use Essential Grammar and TEPS. Actually, learning grammar and preparing for an exam are not fun but the main reason that students sleep is my teaching skill.
That is the reason why I am taking this TESOL course. I did not major in English and I did not learn how to teach English. I have no idea but I am an English teacher right now. It's been a year since I start this job. I really want to have a class that students like to take.
Most of all, it is very sad to see a student who doesn't have any reason to study English. It is also a kind of demotivating myself.
ReplyDeleteI often say to the student about his future life. Whatever he does in his future, English is the one of essential components that he has to have. Because he may live, study and make business with other nation's people, the language ability that make him communicate with other people is important living skill.
But unfortunately, there may be a case that I fail to motivate them, even though I tried to make my best efforts for them. In that case, I counsel with their parents, suggesting that it would be better stopping study for a while than letting them sleep through lessons. Because I am an institute teacher, I can't receive the tuition fee without teaching. And their depressive mood can give bad influence to other students. They may understand the reason they have to study as they grow up.
How do you inspire younger students who see no reason to learn to use English?
ReplyDeleteWhen I was middle school student I really did not know why I learn English and I thought there is no reason to learn English. Because I was not interested to learn the English language. I was just forced by school to attend English classes.
But when I lived in India a three years ago, I felt why I have to learn English. That time I knew that is so important thing in all around world. If I did not know English at all, I could not live in India.
They are taught every subject with English since elementary school in India. So the most Indian people can speak English and they teach Yoga with English to foreigner. I wanted to learn Yoga Why I lived in India that time. So most of all I needed to learn English for learning Yoga.
So I have this experience If I am teacher I will tell my experience and I will try to explain why students need to learn English and how it is important.
I've been teaching English for 3 years and met more than 2,500 students.
ReplyDeleteAmong them, I found few who are interested in English.
I think most students were pushed to come and learn English to the institute by their parents.
Indeed students are taught by only focused on getting higher score on the test.
That's why most students take learning English as a boring and stress subject.
To change and inspire the students, I try to explain the reason why they need to study English hard in many different views.
Mostly I tell the students many advantages of learning English based on my experiences.
Whenever I share my experieces, students tend to draw their attention easily. And they feel fresh and more reality.
What I share things are ; I backpacked more than 18 countries. I lived the Phillippines for 3months and Canada for a year and half.
I have many foreign friends all over the world. I've got higher score and got good job and so on.
When I share these experiences, I focus on English is an universal language.
I don't only simply tell the experiences but also let the students think about many benefits of learning.
Especially I emphazise that English is not a subject but a communication tool.
So I tell students that learning English and being fluent in it make them meet broaden opportunities such as traveling all over the world, living other country with comparative ease.
One more thing that I don't miss is, encourging students by praises.
I also keep saying that 'Don't be afraid of making mistakes.'
When they get praises, students get more confidence and self-motivated.
As a result student start to get interest on studying and also get better score on the test.
I hope to see all students learn English with fun!
We can inspire younger students to learn english by changing their views towards the need of learning the new language, as well as making the learning process more interactive and fun. This interactive process could be initiated by encouraging them to watch english movies of popular titles for younger students, as well as using english intensive computer software applications such as Msn or Facebook. Once they are familiar with or make use of these entertainment systems in their daily routine, they would slowly develop a liking for the english language and would therefore have a strong desire to learn it, in a hope to one day became fluent english speakers.
ReplyDeleteAs I have noticed to L2 students most of them have no interest to study. I've asked them why you enrolled in this class. The reason is because of their parents. Students never know yet the importance of knowing English language. So I explained them the importance. I can speak and translate in Korean. so they feel comfortable with me.I observe students interest and make activities that they would like. I prepared lots of visual aids, materials,chants,games,story,activities an d so on.so I ask them to open and give some opinion so they enjoyed my class and feel satisfaction and interest.Clear explanation helps much that English is fun. I emphasized them English is not difficult as what they think.
ReplyDeleteSome students showed no interest at all but if they like the activities they will participate . The most important factor is how to stimulate students interest.
I should offer some amusements which are related to learning English for younger students. Most young students are interested in characters from cartoons or animations, so they enjoy collecting cards, stickers or other things of the character which they like. Therefore, These materials can be very useful item to teach english to students) when younger students learn English. For example, teachers teach English using the theme song of cartoons which is translated to English, and if younger students study hard, teachers give some rewards such as cards or stickers of the character to their students. I think that younger students can learn English easily through playing or activities without explaining it, so I can inspire younger students to learn English actively by using materials which involve characters that they prefer as an edutainment.
ReplyDeleteIn my case, I show half a movie with subtitles to my kids then break up the second half into smaller sections that play without subtitles. Then I break them up into groups to discuss what happened in the part of the movie they just watched without subtitles. Although they might discuss it in their own native language, they are still trying to understand the movie and have their own opinions about it. The fun is in the discussions, the motivation is in the reward at the end for getting closest to the storyline, and the byproduct happens to be studying english.
ReplyDeleteAs for the second question, I believe that while trying to teach a child, I fail at the moment I give up. As long as I don't give up and keep at it, it'll someday get through to them and will leave knowledge or even something else useful for them to use later on in life. I have not given up on any child yet, so I have yet to admit failure.
If the students who no reason to learn to use English, it's the most important that who have to take interest for English no matter what are movies, games anc comic books ect.
ReplyDeleteI think it's called motivation. In my case,
when I was young, I really wanted read the letter from friend who was Cadian. That is why I was interested in English. My English is still terrible but I want to develope my ability go on.
And enjoyment is also important. Boring class makes the students more indifferent. Using the various materials(as I mentioned sing a song, watching move, playing games..)are good ways to impress. Teachers have to try to make them take exciting.
Although we don't know English, we are well fed, clad and housed. But when we talk English with foreiger or travel other countries, we can get the feeling of achievement or so. It's also the great pleasure. If teachers tell the experinces directly or indirectly, it's helpful students who no reason to learn to use English to inspire them.
I think every action has every reason. If a student doesn't have any reason to learn English or other things, he or she may have had a bad experience like his or her first English teacher was terrible. But To make their mind and the image about English change into something motivating is teachers' duty, I think. To give them encouragement and motivation, preparing for stories of experience and success would be also necessary, because actually they don’t realize that competent English speakers can get more chance to do what they want in the future and it is not the problem about nationalism and inferiority, but profit and reality.
ReplyDeleteI have taught a junior high school student English as a tutor a long time ago.
ReplyDeleteEven though she knew enough vocabulary to make basic sentences, she didn't know how to use the sentences properly. The problem was she didn't even know why she was studying this language and wasn't interested in learning it at all.
On my first day teaching her, I told her the reason why I learned this language. I learned English to be able to experience more of the world, not like typical students who want to get a good job in the future. I showed her my pictures which were taken in many beautiful countries and my e-mails from my foreign friends.
More over, I invited some of my foreign friends that were in Korea to our class. By letting her realize how useful and fantastic learning English was, she soon found many reasons why she needs to learn English.
I taught her, not only with the text books, but also with magazines, diaries, newspapers, and pop-songs. She is now a university student, and she said without me, she would never have found the reason to learn English.
Actually when I was a student from a Junior high school to undergraduate student, I didn`t know why I have to study English. I had studied English without any goal before I went to study abroad. But I realized that studying English can give us more opportunities to study many subjects with various references. For instance, there are many books about western history in Korean. But It’s not enough to study with these references only. For studying western history, we should study English and French and so on… by doing so we can study this subject in detail and approach the closer knowledge. This is one example only. Even so we are Koreans and will stay in Korea whole life, we can not avoid studying English because of culture. Western culture affects on our life in various aspects. If I have a young student who sees no reason to learn to use English, I will explain him or her about these reasons I mentioned above.
ReplyDeleteA few days ago, my students took an examination about English word for elementary student. The result of an examination was very terrible. Only student of 20% successfully passed it. I asked them why the score was low. I heard several answers. For example, “ I don’t know why I must learned English.” “Learning English has no interest for me.” “When I see the letter of English, I have a headache.” “I will live only Korea all my life. So I think that I don’t need to learn it.” At that time, I thought how to say them. I told them that learning English need to make their dreams. – If you want to be a famous cook, you may study abroad or go abroad for finding new taste. Since then, some students try to study English. But the other students don’t like learning English still, so it is the source of my trouble.
ReplyDeleteIn my school days, I have bad memories about English grammar class. I'm not good at English grammar. So I have no confidence. Even this class was really bored. But teachers required that we had to study about national scholastic achievement examination for the college entrance. I couldn't understand it. So I studied hard English conversation more then grammar. If I felt English grammar were fun, I must have studied hard with English conversation.
ReplyDeleteNow I'm teaching English to kids. I am always worried about how can I teach funny and simply to them. I think that they need praise more than punishment. They don't understand why they have to study English hard. They accept just one of activity time. So I focus on "English is fun.", "I can learn English easily." I think that the most important thing is teacher's motivation to students' volition of studying. I try hard not to at least lose their volition.
If younger students who see no reason to learn to use English ask me that “Should all younger students learn to use English?” My answer is “No” as like the younger students. However, I want to explain that English will help the younger students to see new world and give them some opportunity. So, I’d like to inspire the students by three ways.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I will show them some data which is how many people use English for communication and more over 30% of world people use English. It means that we can meet and communicate with foreigner for understanding their thinking and culture more deeply through using English. I will explain them that it helps you to overcome local limitation and open new world.
Secondly, In Korea, it is necessary to learn to use English to enter a good company, university. Although a good company and university is not all for your life, it will help us to have a lot of opportunities rather than someone who doesn’t use English. For example, we could earn more salary and get knowledge.
Finally, I will find the reason to use English with them through travel. I had an experience that I had travel in America with my friend for 6 months. I usually spoke English to buy ticket and find areas (whatever for trip) instead of him, but he could just rely on me because he couldn’t speak English well. After the trip, he had found the reason why he should learn English during 6 months.
In brief, I will show the data, how to find a good opportunity, and travel for them who don’t know the reason to learn to use English.
I tell them if they follow the my way they can get stickers, candy or other presents. If they don't want any other presents I suggest the games.
ReplyDeleteBut if they don't want any of these things than I think it the time in their life to study. Maybe they need to think deeply or take a break and than if they feel necessary to study English than after they can come and study.
In my class (I'm a kindergarden teacher now) other students say something to them.Like,"You have to do this and hen you will get something" or "We will win the game.So you have to this".
Before that I put them in he mood to study.
I believe that motivation is essential for studying English. Why do students have to learn English? Korea has made English one of the required subject in school even though we are in the country where main and only language is Korean. When I was little child, I had a thought why we should learn English when we have Korean language to use in our disposal. Adults always said that it is important to learn English. In my friend case, she started learn English with help of friend's sister by listening to Pop-songs. Although, there are limitations, still it was fun way to learn English easily. Today, I always tell students to try English novels and comics, or movies and songs, at the same time, tell them that English is global language which it is almost always used in trade and presentation when they become adults and have a job. Thus, it is important to prepare yourself; even the companies will prefer a candidate with fluent English. I also always tell them that with fluent English, it will be more efficient to handle your work with more reward in the future.
ReplyDeleteI don't have experience to teach English except when I was a student teacher. Actually I was a student teacher last month in a middle school. I had to have a open class( that is .. some teachers come to my class and watch and evaluate my teaching). I was so worried about that I should speak English only during my class because I thought students feel so boring. So I focused on an antive class. And I decided to prepare my class to make 3-D glasses and explain how to make it and why it works. My class succeeded becuase no one sleep during the class. Even though some students sais "Thanks teacher, That was great class. very interesting, actually I can't understand all of what you tells, but I feel first English is interesting." for her speaking I could get confidence to teach English. The succeeded factor is,, focusing in active class. They make their 3-D glasses and explain how to make it in English ans then they feel English is interesting. So thesedays there are many useful and interesting materials. we can find those easily. Teachers need enough time to prepare an active class. When students feel that the class is interesting, they will study. I dont want to be a teacher to make students sleep. So I need practice and study harder.
ReplyDeletePyo Hyun-hwa(WA)
ReplyDeleteI do not agree that. In Korea, English is a second foreign language. So I think using only English on English class helps students develop more and more. But it has a limit. That is to understand all meanings or contents is difficult for our students.
In my experience, our students are sometimes faced with understanding a story structure and organization. When suffering the difficulties, to explaining in Korean is good for our students. Therefore I need to use Korean properly for more successful English classes in Korea.
I wnat to be a good teacher so I really try to be friently to the student who are forced by their mon into the class. Most of them can start to be intersted in teachers and they find out English intereting. I really happy for those students to try to study English in my class.
ReplyDeleteI had taught those students sometimes. I had a lesson with a little bit easy subjets for them.
ReplyDeleteTherefore I could make them imprve their interest in English. After that, they had engourage in studying English. That's my own exprience.
As the factors of concluding the human behaviors are able to describe many ways, but for my think that the learning motivation is consciousness of one’s purpose and interesting of the subject.
ReplyDeleteI believe the student is going to find a motivation by provide these two things.
The lists of “Purpose of studying English” is,
1. To go to the university
2. To get a job
3. Because it is faster than teaching Korean to the world.
In fact, all the students know that these lists since they were baby. Even though they know the reason, they don’t want to study. The reason is, definitely interesting.
These things decreased the interesting,
1. Difficulty, low grade
2. Punishment by falter in class or comparison with other one.
3. Hate the teacher for some reasons, or non-humor teacher
Is is very difficult that to describe the reason of study to student. Because each students has different think, philosophy, worldview, and purpose. Some student really hard to find the reason, even wash his/her eyes constantly. But for these student, if the teacher provide some fun, interesting, favorable impression, and good feeling, they are going to study English even they need not.
It's not easy to inspire students who don't want to learn English. They usually don't participate in activities of a class actively or positively and even more sometimes disturb other students who want to learn English. For other students and themselves teachers have to manage and heip them. But how can we make them get invove to a class of their own free will? I think it will be the best way to give them a chance to have intrinsic motivation such as "Why do they have to learn English?", or "Why is English getting important now days?" or "What are the strong points to use English fluently and effectively?" And connecting English to their interests and dreams which are jobs they want to have will be effective too. Also making them to understand importance of language, English as a kind of tool not just a foreign language is really needed for these students I think.
ReplyDeleteYoung children learn from what they see, hear and touch and they like to interact with things around them. They prefer moving to sitting down quietly. They have a limited attention span and a lot of curiosity.
ReplyDeleteTo inspire them, I need many teaching materials which is visible. They can learn easily not from explanation but from play. Play is learning for children.
In my case, first, I cause their curiosity by pictures or surprising teaching tools made by myself. And I let them guess what to make them know some words. Second, I let them practice some words with games(especially with physical movement). And third, I sing with them. I think children prefer more speedy songs to silent songs. Sometimes I let them draw and make things. And last, I praise them frequently. Praise is great way to inspire them.