First lesson with 5 year old beginner

[anthonyk]

Hello,

I have just taught my first ever English lesson and would like a few little hints and tips if anyone can help.

I am teaching a 5-year-old who is a complete beginner. He knows just a few words in English and hasn't fully grasped the alphabet yet.

I found it quite difficult trying to do anything because he simply didn't understand a word I said! He also has a short attention span when it comes to serious study, which is normal for kids his age.

I would just like to get some advice from people on how to keep him engaged in learning and studying. Maybe some tips on fun lesson plans.

Also, what kind of things should I be teaching at this complete beginner stage?

Any advice is appreciated immensely.

Thanks.

[loui]

that's the best Age for a anybody to learn a the phonetics of a language, so make sure you start from there, because you can learn a language one you are 18 or older but you'll probably never speak with that language's accent, so emphasize the pronounciation now that he/she (your student) is pretty young and he's brain is still learning to master his/her own native language' phonetics

[DHansen]

I went to my local library and found a CD/book ensemble for learning simple English words and the alphabet. It's an American publication (Jumpstart Phonics by Knowledge Adventure, Inc.) but you should be able to find similar items in England.

Your local librarians may be able to help you find suitable books that will give you ideas.

[anthonyk]

Thanks for the replies.

Much appreciated!

[Itchypow]

seriously...flash cards! and ramp up the energy levels. Think Wiggles! sing and dance. Kids love songs and kids love games. Also make sure you reward when the kid does well. Stickers are always cheap and popular. Get toys, squeaky hammers to hit flash cards. Start from basics....m, m, m, mummy etc.

been teachn Kinda for 3 years and it's been teh most rewarding experience of my life.

[Ifat]

Hi,

My name is Ifat, I'm from Israel, and I'm teaching English in the second grade.
Each one of my lessons begins with two songs, kids learn a lot from those songs. You repeat the words a few tims, and than, without even noticing, your kid knows English.

At first, choose some short songs that repeat themselves every other line. Then choose longer.

But, don't spend the lessons on singing.

About theaching letter - use flash cards - it's

Good Luck!

Ifat

[ivapetrova9]

Hi there

This is my first time here but your question is important.
I would suggest ...pictures.
Animals, flowers,,etc.

You almost need to be an artist to explain English words to a beginner...
Drawing...painting, colors.

AND A LOT OF PATIENCE.
hope this helps.

[petershell]

Hello,
The place to start is phonics and building basic vocabulary.
A phonics book is a must, and an audio cd would be great too.
Online interactive phonics websites are available too, just search 'em out.
Flashcards are great too. There are heaps of games/activities you can do with them (you can find ideas for flashcard games online easily). Songs are always a hit with little ones. Online you can find great songs for beginners with visuals. This is assuming you have internet access at that time, otherwise you can get dvd's with songs for kids too.
Try as many different media and activities as you can. A bit of bookwork, some flashcards games, sing a song, puppet roleplays (basic stuff like Hello. How are you? Good Bye!)
Repetition is key. Young children have a very high tolerance for repetition in fact they enjoy the familiarity. When they repeat a lot it allows the vocabulary to really sink in.
Be patient and enjoy!!!
Good luck!!!

[anthonyk]

Thanks for the replies everyone. Your help is appreciated!

[anthonyk]

Hi Peter,

I see you are teaching in Korea. I would love to go there to teach when I finish university. Can you tell me a bit more about what it's like to teach there?

Thanks!