What's the best way an English teacher can deal with his or her students?

Question

Assume they know more than you expect them to, or that they know less?

Answer 1

"Don't try to teach a pig to sing. It will only frustrate you and annoy the pig." If they are willing and motivated, you have to just show your love for the subject. When I was in school, some of my classmates HATED reading the classics but I loved it and appreciated the fact that the teacher obviously enjoyed discussing the subject.

If they're not willing and motivated, if they don't want to learn, then stick to the basics and aim for creating an employee that will be able to compose a grammatically correct sentence upon demand.

Answer 2

You must always assume more and expect the worse case scenario. Students will only give you as much as you require. I have taught regular English classes and alternative school. My students always complain, "What do you think we are smart?" I always answer yes because I know they can give me more than what they are. I recently became cynical because of the administration, but I have always told my students everyone can learn. I expect no more or no less from my remediation classes and special education students than I do my higher level students. I make them all do the same work. In the real world no one is going to give these kids a break.

Answer 3

You've got to start with a pretest to assess current knowledge. Once you know where they are, you can differentiate your lessons to meet everyone's needs.

Create or find lesson plans that utilize your students. There are tons of websites dedicated to this. Just google "differentiated lesson plans" AND "English." The kids who know more can be used to bring the less advanced kids up to speed. That way, no one gets bored. Remember, the kids have to be doing the work.

I suggest you look up Harry Wong. He is an amazing teacher of teaching with videos and books that are very informative and entertaining.

Answer 4

not enough info to answer the question but in general
the teacher has to teach what is in the school's curriculum for that grade/class. give students the structure (assignments, etc.) that motivates them to do the work. if they know more, give them more challenges. If they know less, back off and give them an easier assignment. meet them where they are and teach them so they can progress.

Answer 5

You have to set high, clear expectations. My "slogan" is I expect my students to learn as much as they can. I also tell them that effort brings achievement. So in this way I am creating clear expectations that are high without assuming anything.

Good Luck!

Answer 6

my english teacher saved my life literally. i only held onto hope because of him. my teacher always gave me assignments that would let all of the "pain" pour out of me and onto the pages. i would never be more gratefully to anyone else in my life. i think that once you "connect" then your homefree, for the most part.

Answer 7

Oh, they always know more than you expect them to, don't you worry about that. don't be submissive, don't be too aggressive. joke around with them, but don't let them walk over you. I tend to pay attention more to teachers like that.

Answer 8

Assume they know nothing, cause that is closer to the truth!

Answer 9

They know nothing and they know a lot- set high goals for them both for curriculum, and behavior & responsiblity and hold them to it.

Answer 10

Dont be strict or a push-over. dont try to control them. basically get on their level and you should be fine.