How to Handle Large ESL Classes with Limited Resources

🎯 Introduction

Many TEFL teachers—especially in public schools or rural placements—find themselves teaching large classes with limited resources. While it can be intimidating at first, it’s absolutely possible to create effective, engaging lessons using smart strategies and creative thinking.

🧩 1. Plan Activities That Scale

Choose activities that work whether you have 10 students or 40. For example:

• Think-pair-share

• Group rotations

• Whole-class surveys

Keep prep minimal and rely more on interaction than materials.

📋 2. Set Clear Routines

Consistency is key. Use signals, visual aids, or gestures to establish classroom routines like:

• How to start an activity

• What to do when finished

• How to transition between tasks

This reduces chaos and gives students structure.

🗣️ 3. Use Student Helpers

Assign classroom roles:

• Vocabulary board writer

• Timekeeper

• Group leaders

This promotes classroom ownership and reduces your workload.

🖍️ 4. Maximize What You Do Have

Use reusable materials like whiteboards, flashcards, or printed prompts. Even a chalkboard and scrap paper can go far when paired with the right activity.

💡 Pro Tip

Teach students how to work in pairs and small groups. Peer learning is your best friend in a large class.

📌 Need Support for Real-World Classrooms?

GoTEFL prepares you to teach in any environment, and TEIK helps you match with schools — from small academies to full-sized public classrooms.