How do I teach these kids?

Question

I am teaching Japanese children between the ages of 12-18. I have one class ( of 15-year-olds ) where there are about six kids who are really hard work. They are rude and don't do their work. I teach them only twice a week, and their other English teacher yells a lot. Which doesn't help. I'm frustrated because they are smart kids, but they just behave like brats. In other classes I've sorted out problems with good results ( kids motivated and, if not well-behaved, then not actively nasty ), but I'm coming up against a brick wall here... Help!

Answer 1

Have you called home yet to speak with the parents of the disruptive students? I have found that most parents are supportive and will help "motivate" the child from their end by withholding privileges or grounding their son or daughter. Sometimes, it only takes a few calls, and word gets around ... other students change their behavior because they know you mean business. I also suggest having a parent conference with one or two of the most disruptive students. Meet with the parents, the student, and a school counselor to discuss the issues at hand and set up an action plan. This is very effective ... shows the student that he or she will be held accountable for his or her actions.

One more thing .... do you have a seating chart? If not, set one up immediately and be very strategic with how you place the students. If you already have a chart, mix it up every so often. I change mine every 4 weeks or so.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

You could try taking on the mantra of "Coach" or "Friend." I'd worry a little about the latter, as it may get tough when it comes to ethics and how far do you go before crossing the line. Coersive doesn't really work all too well, although sometimes a lttle of the "Shock and Awe" can make it an effective tool. I've always found the "Team Effort" approach to be most effective.

Answer 3

Most people make the mistake of setting the rules, posting them and expecting the kids to fall right in line.

1 set rules
2 teach rules
3 practice rules
4 practice rules
5 reinforce rules
6 practice some more
7 reteach when necessary
8 practice.......getting the point?

Answer 4

Set boundaries. Be more nasty when they misbehave but then be proud of them when they do well. Punish them as a whole class that way they will all learn equally and misbehave less.

Answer 5

if you could have a class with the parents present that will change everything.

make it a parents/ family english nite with popcorn and video. also english lesson that the parents can learn and have them interact with there kids....more involvement will make the parents work with there kid

Answer 6

One word: *******