Six Strategies to Do Now for Your ESL Classroom
As an ESL teacher you may be wondering what can you do RIGHT NOW to prepare for the upcoming school year. Before the school year starts is a great opportunity to get prepared and gather yourself for the upcoming school year. I would like to share with you six strategies that you can do right now to get your school year off to a successful start.
Taking time for self-care
The past school year has been so hectic for me as a teacher. I tried to prepare for EVERYTHING and in doing so I simply overwhelmed myself. There were also some instances where it was the exact opposite. I should have been more prepared. In light of this reflection I promised to take some time to spend with myself and my loved ones. I am doing things I love like driving around the city with nowhere to go.I am spending WAY too much time in my favorite craft stores. In addition, I am taking the time to follow my dreams…helping other ESL teachers. When I go back for the school year, I am going to be so refreshed.
Reflecting on the strategies that worked and strategies that need improving for the next school year
One of my strongest attributes is reflecting on the upcoming year. This summer I am going to be at ease, but intentional about my reflection. As I am preparing for the upcoming year, I want to think back on the strategies that worked for my students. For example, going into the school year with high expectations for the students that I will be teaching. There is so much power in that mindset, and I will be doing the exact same thing this summer. I am also reflecting on my consistency. Going into this school year I plan to be more consistent in how I implement my classroom routines. There were some routines I got too relaxed too soon last school year. I WILL NOT make that same mistake for the upcoming school year.
Analyze the data from the previous school year
This year I am analyzing and owning my data as I enter the school year. What this looks like is me sitting down and looking at my areas of strength and what I could have improved on last year. I am also reviewing the students data, so I will have a good idea of what the students will need as they enter the school year. I have always thought “data walls” were silly, however this year I am planning to put my own spin on a data wall. I am preparing for a “Goal Wall”. Students are going to put what they would like to score on the end of the year language assessment on the goal wall. Also at the beginning of the school year, I am planning to meet with them individually to discuss their upcoming goals for the school year.
Create a classroom management plan that is tailored to the needs of my ELLs
EVERY teacher needs a classroom management plan. This summer I am tailoring my classroom management plan to the needs of my students. I am also going to be mindful that even if I create a plan that I need be aware that I need to be flexible. If I see that the plan is not working, then I need to be ready to adjust.
Design a long range plan for school year for EVERY class that I am teaching
Establish relationships with my students before the school year starts
