Error Correction

Error Correction

1. CONCLUSION

   • Keep the experience positive for the learner. Being corrected constantly can be a really de-motivating.
     • Listen out for really good uses of language and highlight these to the group too.

2. HOW TO CORRECT MISTAKES

   • Self correction / Peer correction
     • Give students a chance, and time, to correct themselves. Make signs or repeat the mistake to make ss know they have made a mistake
     • Peer correction creates a positive class atmosphere, students realize they can learn a lot from one another.
   • Correction slots
     • Monitor the students and listen in on what they’re saying, take notes of the mistakes that you hear.
     • Collect a selection of their errors and then stop the activity. Write a selection of the mistakes on the board and ask students to correct them.
   • On the spot correction
     • Students often appreciate instant correction. Consider what type of activity it is before deciding to correct on the spot.

3. TIPS FOR CORRECTING MISTAKES

   • Ask the students how they want to be corrected
     • With large groups, go with the majority, but if you have a small group, focus on individual needs.
     • You can make a traffic light to put on ss' desks
       • RED: don’t correct me at all
       • ORANGE: correct important things I should know
       • GREEN: correct as much as you can
   • Consider if you are working on accuracy or fluency
     • Make sure students are aware of the objective of the class and what you expect from them
     • Don’t present an activity as a fluency task and then pick them up on every single mistake
   • Consider if the mistakes are new or repetitive
     • Remind students that making new mistakes it’s okay, but if they are always repeating the same mistakes it will affect their learning
     • By noting their mistakes students have a record of their progress and can avoid repeating the same mistakes time and time again.
     • Have a set space in their notebooks to write down their errors and the correct version
     • Have little tests based on the classic mistakes students make in class.

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