As a new ESL teacher, you've probably consulted handbooks, websites and mentors to get ideas for planning and leading your first class. You may have even spent some time in an ESL classroom as a teaching assistant or observer. However, in your first semester of teaching ESL classes, you're bound to experience issues they never addressed in college, issues that have to do with individual student success, behavior and the social atmosphere of the classroom. Knowing a few basic tips, though, can help you start your career off right.

Pacing is Key
As a native speaker of English, you can probably quickly and easily explain simple grammar rules. However, to English language learners (ELLs), your quick explanation might be very confusing. For this reason, it's important not to address too many areas at once, not even if they are related. Instead, concentrate on one skill, however small. Make sure your students have at least a competent understanding of it. Then, move on to the next skill.

Cultures Can Conflict
ESL classes are made up of students at various proficiency levels and from a number of cultural backgrounds. A combination of poor communication and ignorance regarding stereotypes can lead to cultural clashes. This not only creates a hostile environment in which little is learned and many students are hurt, but it also teaches students that stereotyping is acceptable. To avoid this culture clash, teach students about stereotypes from day one by encouraging to discuss and find examples of stereotypes they've heard. Then discuss examples that prove the stereotype is not always correct.

English Is Not Easy
English is not an easy language to learn, and students can become frustrated easily. Encourage students by complimenting them when they do well and keeping accurate charts of their success so that you can show them how they've improved over time. When students don't understand a concept, try your hardest not to get frustrated, but try to explain it in a different way. For example, if you used a presentation the first time around, try a song or activity next. Expose students to English as much as you can and encourage them to consume a variety of English media. This will help them become more comfortable with the sounds and words of English.

Motivation Makes All the Difference
Students who are motivated learn effectively. Teachers who are motivated teach effectively. Motivate your students by motivating yourself. Even when students do poorly, encourage yourself by recognizing that you are making a difference. There are a number of methods in which to teach ESL. Try to learn them all; then pick those methods that work best for you and your class. Stay on top of best practices and current scientific findings within the field of ESL by subscribing to peer reviewed journals. When you are not motivated, go to a conference to hear a speaker who is motivated about her job. When your students are not motivated, encourage them by reminding them of the doors that are open to them when they learn English.