{"id":21229,"date":"2022-11-14T10:43:14","date_gmt":"2022-11-14T17:43:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/?p=21229"},"modified":"2023-07-12T14:21:34","modified_gmt":"2023-07-12T14:21:34","slug":"how-to-build-rapport-with-esl-students","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/how-to-build-rapport-with-esl-students\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Build Rapport With ESL Students: 8 Strategies for Fostering Good Relationships"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Before you put those PowerPoint slides onscreen or break out the worksheets in your next English class, have you checked how your students feel about taking the day’s lesson? There are numerous ways to connect with students, be it high-fives or special greetings. Even so, finding ways to make students feel comfortable and engaged in lesson content can be challenging. Here, we break down some fail-safe ways for how to build rapport with ESL students!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re new to teaching, you\u2019ll want to get initial training and qualification with a TEFL certificate<\/a>. You can explore our online TEFL courses<\/a> to get started today.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What does rapport in ESL\/EFL education mean?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rapport refers to a comfortable and harmonious relationship between the teacher and the students. It is the result of being able to “click” with your students \u2013 you connect, interact, and understand each other in a positive way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rapport-building, however, is not just about finding common interests and values. It goes as far as creating trust and respect between you and your students, no matter how big your age gap or where you’re from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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A student of the author, Krzl, an online English teacher in Chile <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why is it important to build relationships with English students?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A good rapport with ESL students is the key to creating a positive and supportive online or physical classroom environment. In effect, the learning process is enhanced because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students feel more comfortable in class<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most first-time ESL students have very little idea of what to expect from their class or teacher. They also often feel anxious and shy about speaking in English for fear of sounding silly or being misunderstood. Nevertheless, it\u2019s possible to reduce these jitters if you can quickly connect with your students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learners become more motivated to participate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Have you ever admired an educator who didn’t seem to have problems making students talk or take part in any activity, and who could even make them laugh? This kind of teacher has a friendly rapport with his or her students. The more connected you are with your ESL students, the more they will respond and participate in class<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students keep coming back for more<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While students may not tell you, \u201cYou\u2019re the best teacher ever!\u201d you\u2019ll know that they have a good rapport with you when they regularly show up and make an effort to be in your class, despite their busy schedules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How do you build rapport with your ESL students?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Now that we know that it’s important to build rapport in the English language classroom to support students in becoming more comfortable, confident learners who are enthusiastic about attending class, let’s look at ways you can encourage these strong relationships with students in a variety of ESL settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Mari, an online English teacher<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

1. Smile and be energetic!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Receiving your students with a cheerful welcome instantly creates a positive learning environment. As a teacher, your vibe easily channels to your learners, so make sure that you’re enthusiastic and motivating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Incorporate fun icebreakers and other activities.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When it comes down to how to build rapport with ESL students, nothing knocks out a nervous feeling and awkward silence in class better than a good ESL icebreaker! It doesn\u2019t have to be elaborate \u2013 it could be as simple as a “Two Truths and a Lie” activity. (Find this and other games here: 10 Easy ESL Icebreakers<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, students may show up to class tired or anxious, so it\u2019s always a good idea to perk them up with a fun game. If you\u2019re teaching a group class, make it more entertaining through competitive games. Yes, your ESL student\u2019s learning is important, but don\u2019t forget to prioritize fun in class too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn more about teaching group vs. individual online English classes.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Learn about your learners.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Whether it\u2019s about their favorite pop group or their last beach trip, don\u2019t be afraid to ask questions about your students’ lives outside the classroom to find out more about them. Be genuinely curious about their interests and activities. Who knows, you might spark a fun conversation about your shared love for surfing or travel!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, pay attention to important information that you can ask them about in future lessons, like birthdays or new additions to the family. Since these details can easily slip your mind, it\u2019s helpful to write them down during or after your class.<\/p>\n\n\n