Teachers’ roles: supporting language learning——theory 17

It is important for teachers to create a constructive learning environment for primary learners of English. Teachers also need to manage language learning activities and support learners when they do these activities.

01 Making decisions about activities

During English lessons teachers have to make decisions about activities. Sometimes they need to add activities, for example, to give more practice and sometimes they may need to cut a planned activity or change the time to spend on it.

02 Managing the time

An important role for teachers is to manage time we learn ers do an activity that need to have enough time but not too much teachers need to wash learn ers and and activities at the right time.

03 Giving information about English

An important role for English teachers is to give information about English, for example, give vocabulary, explain grammar. They also need to model English or find examples of spoken and written English for their learners.

04 Giving clear instructions

When learners work individually or in pairs or groups they need to know what they have to do. Teachers need to give clear instructions and check that learners understand the activity before they it.

05 Monitoring primary learners

Teachers need to monitor primary learners when they work individually or in pairs or groups when possible. Teachers should move around their classroom, watch and listen to learners. They  can answer questions and help where necessary.

06 Giving feedback to learners

Teachers need to know what their learners can do well and what they have problems with. They need to let learners know about their progress, for example, praising or giving feedback about about ways to improve.

07 Keeping records about learners

Many teachers have to keep records about primary learners, for example, for assessment or reports. Teachers can use a notebook to record notes about learners in class and grades from a test and exercises.