In this article, we will read suggestions and tips of exploiting the blackboard in different ways.
How to use the blackboard properly.
Every time you use a board, consider the following suggestions:
1. Black or blue marker is the best color if you are using a whiteboard.
2. Write clearly on the board and write readable letters. Also, students at the back must clearly see what you have written.
3. Do not block the students every time you write. They must have a clear view of the board.
4. Do not turn back on the class for too long while writing. IT says that good teachers write on the board with “eyes on the back of their heads.”
5. Always check what you are writing. You must be careful of your spelling and grammar. Remember that you are an ESL teacher.
How to organize you board
Here are some examples that you can do on your board:
1. You can write new words if you are introducing new vocabulary.
2. You can write instructions so you will not repeat saying it.
3. You can write down the pages of the book that the students will read.
4. You can use it for brainstorming new ideas.
5. You can write down the lesson exercises and activities of your students.
6. You can use it for illustration, playing games, and for visuals which I will be discussing briefly in this section.
- Playing Games. We can play many different games just using the board. However, games should only be played as warmers, fillers, or lesson ending activities. Here are the examples of games that we can play on the board:
1. Hangman
2. XO game
3. Bingo
4. Snake word game
5. Pictogram
You can also play word games which are good in vocabulary class.
- Displaying
If you have a large board, you can display pictures, flashcards, charts, or someone’s work. Displayed pictures can be used by the students during the conversation class by describing it. You can also use pictures to encourage your students to write a sentence, paragraph, or a short story. Just be creative and many possible activities will come out.
- Visuals
In many parts of the world, especially SEA countries, there are still many schools who do not have fully equipped classrooms. Most of those schools have only the basic things in the classroom such as blackboard, chalk, teacher’s desk, and old books.
I remember my experience when I was assigned in a government school near the Malaysian border. I was asked to start the English program together with 3 other foreign teachers. During the first 6 months of teaching, we used the available resources like old books and newspapers. We also learned how to draw stickmen. We used our drawings as a visual aid in our classroom. It was a big helped to us.
Blackboard is a great tool in any ESL classrooms if it is properly used. You can use your board in different activities like discussing, writing, drawing, and presenting new ideas to your students. Always remember that if you’re organized in using the board, your students will be organized too.
0 comments