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If you use English in classroom instructions, it gives children a good chance to develop their listening skills in a context where English is used for real communication. Some children may not understand at first, but if the teacher supports children’s understanding, the children can usually understand the meaning, even if they don't understand all the words.

To give instructions clearly, first make sure to get everyone’s attention. Wait until everyone is silent and looking at you. Speak clearly, but not too slowly. Try to use short sentences, and write the instructions on a piece of paper if necessary. Make sure you keep eye contact with them.

You can help children understand by supporting your instructions with hand gestures, facial expressions and intonation. Sometimes pictures or objects can be used. You can also write key points on the blackboard.

To make sure the students understand the instructions, you can check with them. Don’t ask “Do you understand?” because they may think they have understood when they have not. Instead, you could ask one child to explain what the class has to do in Chinese. For classes with greater English ability, you can ask them checking questions in English, e.g. “Will you work in twos or fours?” or “Will you speak or write?”.