Best Practice 8: The First Day

Best Practice 8: The First Day

The first day of class sets the stage for what is to come throughout the course. As a result, teachers should set aside time on the first day to reinforce the items outlined in the “First Class” section of the Class Assignments portion of the MLC Teacher-Related Procedures.

Please review this material prior to each first class. To review, however, teachers should address the following administrative themes:

• Outline classroom policies (timeliness, cancellation, etc.).

• Clarify student expectations.

• Obtain signatures for the Compromiso del Alumno.

At the same time, the first lesson is a great opportunity to learn more about the students and determine which aspects of English the students want to focus on in their free time. Questions to ask include:

How long have you been learning English?

Why do you want to learn English?

What does your job involve?

Do you use English in your workplace (e.g., memos, e-mail, telephone calls, etc.)?

What do you want to focus on in our lessons?

What other topics do you find interesting or enjoyable (e.g., sports, news, etc.)?

In this way future lessons can show awareness and sensitivity to the unique characteristics, expectations and motivations of the students.

Please see Students' Engagement and Motivation