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TESL 0100: Unit 5 My Classroom


My Classroom

Designing a classroom takes a lot of consideration with how we also create our lesson plans.  Considering all students English level is just one factor as to how the classroom will effectively function to cater all learning needs and abilities.  Being able to assess students’ needs and knowing their learning levels and techniques will help us identify a group that will work effectively together and those who are individual learners.   

            Audiovisual Learners need an Independent Listening Lab. A Listening Lab is a computer space with headphones, laptop or even CD player where they can learn independently and improve their listening skills. They should be given a set of listening list and exercises that they can complete on their own pace based on their comprehension level. Student may be given activities from ESL Cyber Listening Lab [1]or ESL Lounge[2].       

            Silent Space can be set up with a couch and carpet with pillows for comfortable reading space.  This area is a Mini Library or can be called a Literacy Center.  Students can choose books they prefer to read or we can give them reading list to complete with corresponding exercises based on English proficiency.  There is a good online reading resource [3]that students can do independently at home. An independent reading log is also a good way to track students’ level of reading competency. One of elementary practices that I like is the Daily 5[4]. ESL students can also adapt this practice with a partner and do a “read to someone” to practice reading out loud and correct pronunciation. Silent reading is one way to spend their free time. They can choose to read to self, read to someone, listen to reading, do word work or work on writing. I also like the idea of having extra grammar worksheets in this area.  This will give students the liberty of learning something new on their own or review topics that they have completed.          

            The Round Table in the classroom can function as a group work place or a teacher come and go workplace.   Students may come to ask questions and feel free to do one on one coaching time with the teacher.  The teacher may also ask each student to come to the table for assessment or guided learning.  This is one way of helping student address their individual needs and see their progress at the same time.  
            An effective classroom environment doesn’t have to be fancy.  To have the freedom of learning independently and a feel of wellbeing without pressure is the best learning environment we can provide especially to adult learners.  Once students are used to doing daily routines, it will eventually give them the independence and choices or their learning style and practices.  We can always guide but the best guide we can do is to observe their habits and coach them to become more effective in their learning styles.

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