Teaching Resources > TKT > Modules > Module 3 > Learner Factors

 

 

 

 

 

Learner Factors

Aim:

to raise awareness of how learner factors affect the classroom and of common ways of managing problems they may cause

Target Audience:

 teachers/candidates

Relevance to TKT:

Module 3 Part 2

Organisation:

groups then whole class then groups then whole class

Materials needed:

paper
  1. Write these terms on the board:

    learners’ personalities, age, ability, motivation, learning styles, learner needs, discipline, class size.

  2. Divide the class into 8 groups and give one of these terms to each group.

  3. Each group brainstorms ways (positive or negative) in which their factor might affect the classroom, e.g. in terms of activities, topics, interaction, class management etc.

  4. The groups report back their answers to the whole class.

  5. Each original group imagines a problem arising from their factor. They write it on a slip of paper.

  6. The groups exchange slips of paper and discuss solutions to the problems. (The cards could be exchanged up to eight times!)

  7. Round up – the trainer asks the class to identify common ways of handling problems e.g. choice of appropriate materials and activities, getting appropriate students to work together, variety, choice of pace, choice of interaction patterns, establishing routines and rules.

Notes/Variations:

  • You may prefer to conduct discussions in the trainees’ first language.

Module 3 Activity List