turning into a milksop

I teach, I try to.

I teach two classes, each representing the following age group: Group 2 are 10-13 year olds, Group 3 are 14-17 year olds. The challenges in both age groups are like two different galaxies!

Group 3 leaves me feeling like I'm probably going to be a boring teacher, if I'm not one already. That said, they're hugely cooperative except when it comes to 'speak louder'. I could barely hear them. So shy.

Group 2 is something else altogether. The energy in the room was just... aaarrrrgggggggggghhhhh!!!! The incessant

'teacher! teacher!'

'teacher! he talks so much!'

'teacher! he kicked me!'

'teacher! she keeps talking!'

'teacher! i want to go toilet!'

'teacher! teacher! teacher!......teacher!'



AaaaAaaAAA....! *thud*
*I'm sorry your teacher died*



The other challenge with group 2 (though minuscule in comparison to the previous) was their very limited vocabulary. Much of the words in the exercise sheets provided were difficult for them. I had to draw on the board to try and explain what it is. I drew a compass, piano, seashells, recorder, and a skateboard among others. Trust me, it's challenging. My family has the least of the artsy gene. Drawing does not come naturally. I'm still not convinced they know what a compass is.

I left feeling like I've left a battle field and the present score is Stef-0, kids-1.

The first on my list is to come out with a way to handle Group 2. How to keep them quiet. Any pointers? I don't want to go in next week for another losing battle with the kids.