Tips for Zoom Language Classes

As technology advances, online learning has become an increasingly popular method for language learners. Zoom, in particular, has become a popular platform for online language conversation classes due to its easy-to-use features and accessibility. Here are some tips on how to conduct Zoom language conversation classes with middle school students, based on my own experience as a language teacher.

1. Establish a routine: Consistency is key to any successful language conversation class. Establish a regular schedule for your class and communicate it clearly to your students. This will help them to be prepared and focused for each class. As someone who has been teaching via Zoom for over a year now, I've found that keeping a consistent schedule has helped my students to develop a routine and take their learning more seriously. I like to start every class with asking how a student is and then a reading exercise, which helps them warm up the language and also train their pronounciation and deepen their vocabulary. I have a stack of material that I iterate through, that way they get used to the material and have more chances to learn the words.

2. Set clear learning objectives: Before each class, set clear learning objectives and communicate them to your students. This will help them to understand what they are expected to achieve in each session and keep them motivated. I usually create a lesson plan and share it with my students before each class, so they know what to expect and can come prepared with any questions or materials they might need.

3. Encourage participation: Participation is essential in language conversation classes. Encourage your students to actively participate in the conversation by asking them open-ended questions and giving them opportunities to speak. One way I do this is by incorporating discussions or debates into my lessons, which allows my students to practice their language skills in a more natural and engaging way. I often use ice breaker questions to get them to talk openly. Sometimes it takes a while for the student to find his words or what he wants to say, so be patient. Move on after a few moments of silence.

4. Use visual aids: Visual aids such as pictures, videos, and infographics can help to engage middle school students in the conversation and make the learning experience more interesting. I often use PowerPoint presentations or share my screen to show my students relevant videos or articles, which helps to spark their interest and generate discussion.

5. Correct mistakes gently: Correcting mistakes is an important part of language learning, but it should be done in a gentle and encouraging manner. Try to correct mistakes without making your students feel embarrassed or discouraged. I always try to provide constructive feedback and focus on the progress my students have made, rather than just pointing out their mistakes.

6. Play games: Middle school students love games, and incorporating them into your conversation classes can make the learning experience more enjoyable and interactive. There are many language learning games available online, such as Kahoot and Quizlet, that you can use to add some fun to your classes. I often use these games as a way to review vocabulary or grammar concepts we've covered in class.

7. Have them write things down: By writing down new words or sentences we created together, the student gets a chance to rest for a moment while still learning. Studies have shown that writing down things by hand helps the brain remember more easily.

8. Use breakout rooms when teaching bigger groups: Zoom breakout rooms are a great way to encourage smaller group conversations and give students more opportunities to practice their language skills. Divide your class into smaller groups and assign conversation topics for each group. As a teacher, I can easily pop in and out of these breakout rooms to provide feedback and guidance as needed.

9. Incorporate culture: Learning a language is not just about grammar and vocabulary, it's also about understanding the culture. Incorporate cultural topics into your conversation classes to help your students gain a deeper understanding of the language and the people who speak it. I often use news articles or cultural events as conversation starters, which allows my students to practice their language skills while also learning about different cultures.

10. Incorporate seasons and holidays: I like to use the changing of the seasons and approaching holidays to change up the lessons and bring them new vocabulary in an immersive way, since they actively live through what we have been talking about. In spring for example we talk about the changes in nature, and the next time the student goes outside they might remember the name of the flower or animal we learned earlier.

11. Provide feedback: Feedback is essential to language learning. Provide feedback to your students after each session to help them improve their language skills and feel motivated to continue learning. I always try to provide specific feedback on what my students did well and what they can improve on, as well as any resources or tips they can use to continue practicing outside of class.

As a teacher, it's important to create a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel comfortable to find their words and express themselves. Be sure to provide ample time for students to speak and avoid interrupting or rushing them. This will help build their confidence and improve their communication skills over time. Remember, language learning is a process and progress may not always be immediate, but with patience and persistence, students can achieve their language goals.

In conclusion, conducting Zoom language conversation classes with students can be a fun and effective way to help them improve their language skills. By establishing a routine, setting clear learning objectives, encouraging participation, using visual aids, playing games, using breakout rooms, incorporating culture, providing feedback, and conducting trial classes, you can create an engaging and effective learning experience for your students. With a little creativity and planning, online language conversation classes can be just as effective as in-person classes.