Celebrating World Teachers’ Day while incorporating SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) into your lesson plan can be a fun and meaningful experience! But how can you achieve that?
➡️ Young Students
Ask your little ones to write some heartfelt messages and make handmade gratitude cards for their favourite teachers using some coloured paper, crayons and stickers, glitter or other decorative items.
💡 Encouraging artistic expression through craft activities and creating opportunities for pair or group work can provide a meaningful context for language practice. It allows young students to learn how to express their emotions in a creative way and nurture a culture of kindness and collaboration in your English language classroom.
➡️ Older Students
Discuss the importance of appreciation and encourage your English learners to share examples of how a good teacher can have a positive impact on their lives. Then ask each student to share something they’ve truly appreciated about a teacher or a related experience they are thankful for. Can they think of any fun ways to express their gratitude?
💡 Are you aware of the AMA (Ask Me Anything) social media trend? Have you seen any celebrities and influencers answer questions about their lives? Well, now is the time to embrace this trend and let your students ask you anything about your job! Give them a glimpse into the life of an English teacher and help them to understand how many challenges you face and how hard you try to create a positive and strong teacher-student relationship! You could also watch the famous TED talk Every kid needs a champion by Rita Pierson and discuss the ways in which great teachers affect our lives and why teaching and learning should bring joy.
➡️ English Teachers
Last but not least, remember to celebrate this day not only with your students, but also with your colleagues! And let this 5th of October be the beginning of a school year of self-care!
