Classroom English is language that is frequently used in the classroom, and it characterized by its usefulness and practical application. It can be found in the beginning of textbook chapters, and also encompasses basic English expressions that the teacher uses daily in the classroom.
Classroom English, while seemingly simple and straightforward, is an essential part of the language setting. The functions are varied:
- Gain an understanding of the English Language
- Enable students to feel comfortable hearing and responding to English instruction
- Promote unconscious comprehension of simple commands in English
- React to English instruction and thus gain confidence in their overall ability to function in English
Here are some examples of certain classroom phrases used throughout the class:
Start of the class
“Sit down”
“be quiet please”
“Let’s review…”
“Let’s begin”
During the class
“Repeat after me”
“Read aloud”
“Next”
“try again”
“Do you understand”
After the class
“Any questions”
“The homework is…”
“Tomorrow, we’ll…”
“Goodbye, have a nice day”
Classroom English exists in a strange paradigm. Its very nature means the usage is more than other types of English, but often it isn’t taught specifically or focused on during classes. This creates a problem for language teachers as often it requires a different teaching method compared to specific chapter focused English.
Classroom English is predominantly spoken and so the teacher uses this medium to communicate with classroom English, however oral techniques are only a component of teaching classroom English.
Strategies for teaching Classroom English:
Use visuals to reinforce the target language. This is an essential part of the learning and reinforcement process. Students need to be able to see the Classroom English phrases easily and they need access to it at all times.
Use the first part of the first lesson to talk about Classroom English with students. This is an important step to establishing what phrases the students need to listen out for.
For older students, methods for learning Classroom English tend to have a passive rather than active aspect. Student exposure to Classroom English will take place throughout the class, and practical methodology includes repetition and drills.
With younger students, alongside the repetition, more active tasks can be useful, especially games. Before and after the class, games can be a great way to teach Classroom English.
