Starting to teach English to beginners or grade 1 students is both exciting and challenging. The first class sets the tone for future learning, so it’s important to make it simple, fun, and interactive. Whether you are a school teacher or a private tutor, understanding what to teach in the first English class for beginners and how to tutor a grade 1 student helps you create a strong foundation for language learning.
What to Teach in the First English Class for Beginners
In the first English class, focus on basic communication skills and familiar vocabulary. The goal is to make students comfortable with the sound and rhythm of English. You can start with-
Alphabet and Sounds:
Begin by introducing the English alphabet (A–Z) and their sounds. Use colorful flashcards or songs to make it engaging.
Greetings and Self-Introduction:
Teach simple phrases like “Hello,” “Good morning,” “My name is…,” and “How are you?” This builds confidence in speaking.
Basic Vocabulary:
Focus on familiar objects — fruits, animals, colors, family members, and classroom items. Use real objects or pictures for better understanding.
Numbers and Counting:
Teach numbers 1 to 10 with rhymes and actions. This not only develops language but also helps with memory.
Simple Instructions:
Practice classroom commands such as “Sit down,” “Stand up,” “Open your book,” or “Raise your hand.” It helps them follow lessons easily.
What to Teach Basic 1 in English
For Basic 1 learners (Grade 1 students), English lessons should be short, visual, and repetitive. Here’s how to structure it:
Phonics and Letter Recognition:
Introduce the sounds of letters and basic blending (like ‘ba’, ‘ca’, ‘da’).
Vocabulary Expansion:
Add new words weekly, related to daily life (e.g., food, body parts, seasons).
Sentence Formation:
Help them make short sentences such as “I am a boy,” or “This is my bag.”
Storytime and Songs:
Use short English stories or nursery rhymes to improve listening skills and pronunciation.
Reading and Writing Practice:
Encourage tracing letters and reading simple three-letter words (cat, dog, sun, etc.).
How to Tutor a Grade 1 Student
When tutoring a grade 1 student in English, focus on patience, repetition, and play-based learning. Here are some effective tips:
Use Visual Aids: Charts, flashcards, and videos help students connect words with images.
Interactive Games: Word matching, spelling bees, or “find the word” games make learning enjoyable.
Encourage Speaking: Let them speak small sentences daily to build confidence.
Positive Feedback: Appreciate their efforts — it keeps motivation high.
Consistent Practice: Daily 10–15 minutes of reading or speaking practice improves fluency.
Conclusion
Teaching English to beginners or tutoring grade 1 students is about creating a fun and supportive environment. Start with sounds, words, and simple sentences, then slowly build up to reading and writing. By understanding what to teach in the first English class for beginners and how to tutor a grade 1 student, you help children develop strong language skills that last a lifetime.
