[sooy]

Hi all,
Great community you've got here
I'm a new ESL teacher and I'm wondering if anyone can recommend a good site for testing students levels and abilities (preferably something I can print out rather than online, but if there's a particular good online site, that would be handy also). I'll be starting a new job in China this year and I'm curious as to the best way of finding out just what level the students are at. I've got a few months to really get organised with lesson plans etc before I leave.
How do you all test your students abilities when you are starting at a new school ? I'd hate to be boring them with lessons that are to easy or scaring them with lessons that are too difficult !
Any advice gratefully received,
Thanks !

[michèle 2]

How old are your students?
Personally I've used Cambridge young learners English tests many times to assess my young students .You can get samples in their site.
Cambridge ESOL: Teacher resources – by exam
and for older students there are also other tests ( KET, PET...)

[sooy]

Thanks for your reply,
I'll be teaching between the ages of 13 to 18 years of age !

[HUE]

Is there any way to find out which textbooks the students will use, and then preview a copy? That would give you an idea of what language points and vocabulary they will study during the year. If not, then still remember that the students will likely still need speaking practice.

The Japanese students in a lot of classes I observe know the target language, but perhaps are just a bit rusty with it. (I work with teachers of adult classes.) But being able to ask a question, or answer one, after a minute of thought isn't communication. Your lessons and activities can focus on building fluency and speed, as well as reinforcing accuracy.

Good luck with your new career, and welcome to the ESLHQ boards.

[sooy]

Thanks Hue!

But being able to ask a question, or answer one, after a minute of thought isn't communication. Your lessons and activities can focus on building fluency and speed, as well as reinforcing accuracy.

I think that is absolutely true I think that some of the classes will be rather large and I'm a bit worried about some students missing out!
As far as textbooks and curriculum. I have been talking to the current teacher and Foreign teachers are a fairly new acquisition to this school. Apparently it is pretty much up to me. In one way I think "GREAT" in another it is a bit scary.
I'm sure it will be a challenge!