There are many challenges that new teachers face, it might not be so easy a job at first. One of the hardest things for new teachers can be to build a rapport or relationship with your students. It is hard when you are excited about a lesson and your students are not. Engaging students takes some time, so don’t get too upset.

Below are 5 strategies that you can use to build a better rapport with your students.

1. Learn the names of your students.

It might sound like something simple but if you learn your students’ names it can really encourage them to speak more in class. It is not always easy to remember students’ names. You might have a large class of twenty plus students and memorizing all of their names in a different language is not that simple. However it is important to be able to call students’ by their names as soon as possible. You can use pictures of the students accompanied by their names or just review the list of students’ names.

2. Using group activities

You will probably have many students in your classes. Therefore it is a good idea to use group activities. This will help if you have students who are shy or reluctant to participate in class group activities can help and break the ice. You can start with small discussion groups. This will help shy student feel more comfortable talking. When using group activities make sure that you walk around and monitor the groups. You should also be checking that one student isn’t doing all the work while the others sit and watch. Always make sure student in group activities are on task.

3. Add some personality to your lessons.

Your students will probably be even more nervous than you are. It is important to let your personality out in your classes. You don’t need to be best friends with your students but you should share some small aspects of your life with them. You can give them some information about your country, culture or family. This will encourage students to share about their lives and participate more in class.

4. Know your student’s interests.

You should know what your students like so that you can connect things in your class to their interests. You want to engage students therefore, connecting with what they like and are interested in can help them become more interested in your lessons. You can use music lyrics that they like or talk about sports they enjoy.

5. Manage your expectations

Remember that every teaching experience is different. You may feel uncomfortable being in a new school with new students but those feelings will pass. You must remember that as time passes you will become more comfortable in your new setting. Don’t stress the small stuff. Control what you can and let things go that are beyond your control.

Building a relationship with students in a new class or school can be difficult at times but don’t stress. With time you will become more comfortable with your students and they will become more comfortable with you.