After this module, students will be able to
1. Give instructions to students for common matters
2. Make sure instructions are clear and understandable
3. Respond to questions about given instructions
4. Respond to violations of instructions
5. Ask for understanding from students
It is important to give instructions in a classroom setting, whether to get students' attention or to make certain expectations clear. First, the instruction must be given in a clear manner. Make sure to speak loudly and confidently! If the instruction is not obeyed by the student, there must be a consequence.
Ex 1: a) (Student name), sit in your seat immediately.
b) I don't want to!
a) if you do not sit in your seat right now, you will have to stay in the classroom for 10 minutes after school.
For older students, childish discipline is inappropriate. Towards these students, be reasonable and understanding.
Ex 2: a) (Student name), can you please read the sentence on the blackboard?
b) Sorry, I don't know what the sentence says.
a) That's alright. Does anyone want to help their classmate out and read me the sentence on the board?
Practice: Find a partner. Take turns repeating exercises 1 and 2 out loud by substituting your personal information in for the underlined parts.
Act out this situation with a group of three.
Teacher (a) is instructing his students to get ready for an exam. Student (b) obliges, while student (c) does not.
a: Everyone, today we will be having an exam! Please clear your desks and hold on to something to write with. I will pass the papers out once everyone has cleared their desks and the room is silent.
b: Mr. Vijay, can I use a pen instead of a pencil?
a: Yes. Make sure to use a ballpoint pen, as other pen inks will smear.
*Student (c) is talking to a friend loudly*
a: George and Sarita, stop talking immediately. I still see your textbook on your desk.
c: But Mr. Vijay, I didn't know we were having a test today. Can I take it tomorrow?
a: You were informed of this test last week, so you should have prepared accordingly. Now put away your textbook.
b: Don't worry, there are make-up exams if you fail this one.
c: Okay. But can I at least use my calculator, Mr. Vijay?
a: If you want to, but I'm not sure how it will help you on your history test!
What all did Mr. Vijay ask the students to do before the test?
How did Mr. Vijay respond to a student who asked about which writing utensil was necessary?
Why did Mr. Vijay respond the way he did to this student?
How did Mr. Vijay stop George and Sarita from talking?
What questions did George have, and how did Mr. Vijay answer them?
What do you say to a classroom after explaining a concept?
A. "Do you understand? If not, read your textbook after class."
B. "Let's pause here. Does anyone have any questions?"
C. Nothing
Correct answer: B. Although A is an acceptable answer, some students may feel unwilling to speak up in a group setting about whether they understand or not. Opening up a discussion where questions are encouraged can help students verbalize their confusion and give them practice with English!
Which of the instructions below are clear and appropriate?
A. Use your ruler to draw a straight line.
B. Try to follow along with the class.
C. Please open your books to page 9.
D. Can you all quiet down?
Correct answer: A and C
After this module, students should be more comfortable giving and receiving instructions, as well as responding to reactions to these instructions.