Creating and maintaining a positive learning environment that fosters a sense of safety for students poses a challenge for educators. Regardless of whether it's a new academic year or not, classroom management is crucial for a successful teaching career. Teaching encompasses more than just lesson planning and assigning homework; it extends beyond mere scores and tests. When students, regardless of age, step into your classroom, it is vital that they perceive it as a welcoming space that provides support and a safe learning environment, one that respects their individuality. Be approachable and invest time in getting to know your students, their interests, backgrounds, and needs. By doing so, you establish positive relationships with them, enabling them to thrive in your classroom.
In recent times, it has become apparent that many students lack motivation due to various reasons. Consequently, creating captivating lessons that engage and sustain the motivation of all students has become another challenging and demanding task for teachers. This is especially true for students with special educational needs such as dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and others who require additional support and adapted teaching methods and materials.
Text by: Margarita Bofiliou
Every student is unique, with different learning styles (visual, kinesthetic, auditory, etc.), distinct demands, and academic expectations. However, what all students need is a healthy, non-judgmental classroom environment, both from the teacher and their peers. This encompasses the utilization of diverse strategies to support their learning, encourage socialization, and foster a sense of equality.
It is essential to understand that dyslexia or ADHD is not solely about experiencing learning difficulties. Students with these conditions may struggle in school, and without proper intervention, their difficulties can become increasingly severe over time. Additionally, they often face various social and emotional challenges that can lead to isolation and withdrawal. As an educator, focus on their abilities, praise and reinforce their strengths, and demonstrate that you acknowledge their difficulties. It is crucial to emphasize that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process, as it paves the way for success. Provide them with activities that not only facilitate success but also bring enjoyment. For instance, relate new concepts to their interests or life experiences. Allow them to experience fun in the classroom.
Consider a student with dyslexia who struggles with reading and comprehension or an ADHD student who finds it difficult to maintain focus. These students cannot thrive in a standard lesson as they easily become bored, among other challenges. To create an inclusive environment where all students can learn together, provide clear instructions multiple times and be adaptable by employing a variety of teaching styles. Break down complex directions into smaller, more manageable steps, ensuring that each student comprehends the given instructions. Encourage questions to clarify any uncertainties. By doing so, you help them stay focused on their tasks. Embrace your creativity and that of your students when assigning new tasks. Students with special educational needs are often remarkably creative. Harness this positive element and incorporate it into engaging activities or, perhaps, explore new teaching styles.
Projects involving oral presentations, art, games, videos, and teamwork with peers can all be part of the learning process. Patience and focus are required as it takes time to encourage and promote their strengths, rather than their weaknesses. However, the effort is entirely worthwhile.
In order to provide appropriate resources for students with dyslexia and/or ADHD, a novel idea emerged. I had the privilege of collaborating with "Global ELT" to create something innovative: "Learning is NOT difficult," a supplementary resource that includes alternative activities for the "Smart Heroes" primary series. "Smart Heroes" is a fresh two-level English course designed for young learners at the primary level. Carefully graded (pre-A1 CEFR level) and featuring contemporary content tailored to 21st-century skills, it incorporates the latest learning theories, including experiential, inquiry-based, and task-based approaches.
The course offers engaging activities across all language skills. If you find yourself facing the challenge of supporting students with specific learning difficulties, the "Learning is NOT difficult" component can provide effective adjustments. It includes a range of specially designed, enjoyable activities covering phonological and phonemic awareness, grammar rules, and vocabulary. The instructions and examples provided are clear, and the best part is that it does not require a substantial budget or extensive planning.
Teaching English to students with specific learning difficulties may initially seem challenging and intimidating, but with flexibility and diversified teaching methods, you can achieve the seemingly impossible. By offering multiple options to present new information, you ensure that all students, not just those with learning difficulties, have the opportunity to develop their language skills effectively.
