How to be an ESL Class Observer

Preparing to observe

• Procure a textbook from the Teacher so you can follow along.

• Please wait to join for class until you have coordinated ahead of time with the School Leader and Teacher(s) of the class you’ve been assigned to for that day. Not all classes are a good fit for an observer. For example, some classes may be too small, and another native English speaker would make the students nervous.

How to observe

• Pray for the students and volunteers serving them.

• Things to look for

Not taking away

• Please do not talk during class. This may seem harsh, but we do not require training for the Observer role. It’s just to learn about what an ESL classroom is like. If you’re interested in talking with the students or helping to teach, then prayerfully consider the Assistant Teacher role.

• Please do not enter or leave during class time unless the Teacher(s) has approved it. E.g. Please be early in order to talk with the Teacher(s) and get settled before students arrive. This is also because the preparation the volunteers do is part of your learning / observation experience.

Afterward

• If at all possible, try to debrief your experience with the Teacher(s) and School Leader.