Extra tools in english lessons : voice, body language and sense of humor

Abstract

This paper reflects on the difference teachers could make by motivating their classroom with some simple adaptation regarding their behavior towards the students. The objective is to analyze three specific attitudes that may be connected to teachers with the ability to motivate their students to get involved in classes and keen on learning. The three specific approaches studied in this paper are vividness of voice, body language and sense of humor. Brown (2008) postulates motivating students is essential, starting from teachers demonstrating enthusiasm themselves. Having this in mind, the manner with which teachers use their voice and body language while talking to the class may have a great impact on students` perspective because it is through this kind of attitude that humans demonstrate and perceive emotions. The sense of humor comes as an emotional strategy to provide a comfortable environment and make students feel more relaxed and also a way for teachers to bond with the class, so they are not seen in a mechanic way. The emotional aspects involved in the learning process are defended by Morrison, who states that -learning must go through our emotional filter and our memories are composed of experiences that are linked to emotions? (MORRISON, 2008, p. 45). As a result, this paper makes a reflexion on the Brazilian educational system and proposes some tips for new professionals to have a productive first year as educators, regarding the factors aforementioned (sic).