Tips
Language Structure:
Understand the basic structure of the host language. Errors students make may be related to translation. For example, many Asian languages don't pluralize their nouns, so students may forget to write or pronounce an S at the end of the word. Correcting errors is easier when you know the reason for the mistakes.
Proactive Communication: You may feel shy and find it hard to approach superiors or fellow staff but do so anyway! Extra information will help prevent misunderstandings and conflict. If no clear guidance has been given, do not hesitate to ask. Is the teacher responsible for absences? Who is in charge of discipline? Does the teacher need to hand in progress reports or any other information? Depending on how organized the host staff are and their experience with foreign teachers, you may not be given basic information.
Classroom Code: Set up a few, very simple, clear rules. Write them down, illustrate them if possible, and repeat them often. When a child misbehaves, repeat the rules, so the student understands exactly what is going on.
Homework rules Only English in class Participation
Comparing: Don't compare yourself to other teachers. While always unhealthy, if you compare yourself to a teacher "better" than you, the effect can be crippling. Every teacher is unique. While borrowing ideas from other teachers is positive, rating yourself based on another's abilities will have negative effects on your performance and your enjoyment of the experience.
Community: Explore the community outside the classroom! Avoid the extremes of not dedicating enough time to lesson planning or of spending all day working at school or at home. Go watch a local soccer game. Walk with the neighbour lady to market. Step out of your comfort zone and enjoy the experience of working in another culture!
Understand the basic structure of the host language. Errors students make may be related to translation. For example, many Asian languages don't pluralize their nouns, so students may forget to write or pronounce an S at the end of the word. Correcting errors is easier when you know the reason for the mistakes.
Proactive Communication: You may feel shy and find it hard to approach superiors or fellow staff but do so anyway! Extra information will help prevent misunderstandings and conflict. If no clear guidance has been given, do not hesitate to ask. Is the teacher responsible for absences? Who is in charge of discipline? Does the teacher need to hand in progress reports or any other information? Depending on how organized the host staff are and their experience with foreign teachers, you may not be given basic information.
Classroom Code: Set up a few, very simple, clear rules. Write them down, illustrate them if possible, and repeat them often. When a child misbehaves, repeat the rules, so the student understands exactly what is going on.
Homework rules Only English in class Participation
Comparing: Don't compare yourself to other teachers. While always unhealthy, if you compare yourself to a teacher "better" than you, the effect can be crippling. Every teacher is unique. While borrowing ideas from other teachers is positive, rating yourself based on another's abilities will have negative effects on your performance and your enjoyment of the experience.
Community: Explore the community outside the classroom! Avoid the extremes of not dedicating enough time to lesson planning or of spending all day working at school or at home. Go watch a local soccer game. Walk with the neighbour lady to market. Step out of your comfort zone and enjoy the experience of working in another culture!