GIVING CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS

by Guest Wed Feb 08, 2012 1:21 pm

One of the problems students face when taking a test or even doing a simple class activity is understanding instuctions!!
so how to set clear instructions to get your students do what you want them to do?

... In order for your classroom activities to run smoothly, it is crucial that all your students understand exactly what you want them to do before you start. Although this is true of all students, with Second Language Learners it is especially important and doubly challenging.

Your instructions must therefore be clear, concise and unambiguous.

To achieve this:

1. Plan what you are going to say and, ideally, write it down in advance so that you are as clear as possible.

2. Make sure your students are paying attention to you before you start
giving your instructions.

3. Use simple direct language, such as imperatives. Avoid using idioms, colloquialisms, conditionals, modal constructions, and over politeness.

4. Speak slowly and clearly and pause between phrases or sentences.

5. Be as brief as possible.

6. Show your students what you mean as well as tell them. Model the activity as you give the instructions.

7. Maintain eye contact, watch students for signs of incomprehension. Teach your students to nod in comprehension!

8. Only give the instructions necessary for the next stage of the activity. If an activity has several stages, give only the instructions needed for the next stage.

9. Check that students understand the instructions.
Ask them simple questions to make sure.