Emotions in the EFL Classroom: Why They Matter for Teachers and Students

 

Teaching English is not only about the perfect lessons plan. It is also about feelings.

In the EFL classroom, emotions can help students learn… or stop them from learning. Consider your emotions and their emotions.

In this post, we will explore why emotions matter in the EFL classroom and how simple strategies and resources can make a big difference for both teachers and students.

Common Emotions in the Classroom

Students may feel: happy, joyful, excited, nervous, enthusiastic, shy, anxious, proud, boredom, frustrated and I sure you can name even some more.

Teachers may feel: motivated, satisfied, tired, worried, stressed, angry, and a very long etc.

Emotions are normal—for both teachers and students! As teachers, we care more about how our students feel and forget about us.

How Emotions Affect Learning

When a student is anxious or bored in your class, you will see that there is a loss of focus and bad behavior can start. When a student is enjoying the class, your will see a positive response to all the activities.

On your teacher side, if you feel enthusiastic, you will show that energy in all you do. But, if you are burnout or anger, because you have taught so many lessons and your adult live sometimes gets in the way, the result is a very out of control lesson.

Simple Strategies for the teacher to Support Emotions

If I can name just one, I would say that a proper lesson plan is one of the most effective tools for reducing a teacher's negative emotions and stress. It doesn’t mean that the class will run smoothly without any bump on the road, but it will lower your stress knowing that you are fully prepared.

I have a lesson blog post series and a link to the template, here: https://eflelementaryresources.blogspot.com/2024/07/writing-warm-up-section-in-lesson-plan.html

Simple Strategies for the students to Support Emotions

For the students, there are so many things that you can do to have a fun, enjoyable lesson every time.

1.    Use emotion flashcards or feeling cards. This helps students name their feelings in English. I have a whole unit for emotions for kindergarten and elementary EFL. Here is the link to the Bundle: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotions-Unit-BUNDLE-for-Kindergarten-and-Elementary-EFL-7040440

2.    Start with Emotional Check-Ins. Ask: “How do you feel today?” Have the class or individual students do their best into expressing themselves. Use the poster that I will share at my store for free! Get it: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotions-Poster-and-Stickers-15904092

3. Use Games and Interactive Activities, such as: puzzles, matching activities, Board games, spinners, letter tiles, small cards and more. I do have so many games that are easy to print and pull together for your lesson plan. Go to my store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Holistic-English-Resources-By-Rosa-Amelia

3.    Give Positive Feedback to build confidence. I will hand in these FREE printable stickers. Go to the store and download: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotions-Poster-and-Stickers-15904092

4.    Include Creative Activities, such as: Drawing, coloring, and crafts. I include many of these worksheets and there is a craft for each unit for the Kindergarten Bundle. Click here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-ESL-Bundle-Thematic-Lesson-Plans-Flashcards-Games-for-ELL-7390586

My Experience

In my own teaching days, I have had stressful lessons, anger issues with students, social and political experiences on top. It wasn’t easy sometimes. I would just set aside all personal or external things going on and put on my teacher suit with my best happy mood and face, have my mind open for the best teaching and learning environment. I would always be prepared with my lesson plan, so I didn’t have anything else to worry about with lots and lots of activities ready for the kids.

My students would feel happy to see me, I was received with a smile. I would have great participation. Just standing next to a new or nervous student, to give confidence and assurance that the task is achievable.

That is why I started making games, visual support, and simple activities that has led to my store today. Click here, to check them out: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Holistic-English-Resources-By-Rosa-Amelia

I know that you have story about your emotions in class. Feel free to share here!

Visit my blog for preschool teachers here: EFL Preschool Teachers Blog. You'll find practical activities, tips, and resources designed to make learning fun and effective for little ones!