What is monitoring?
Monitoring refers to the process of observing and listening to your learners while they work independently on an activity. It allows you to check how they’re doing, identify successes and problems, and decide what feedback and follow-up are needed.
When do we monitor?
You should monitor whenever learners are working independently – in pairs, groups, or individually – and you want to check on their progress. Monitoring helps you ensure learners understand the task, are on track, and are using the language purposefully.
How do we monitor?
Monitoring is more than just standing and watching – your physical presence and positioning can influence how effective (and how intrusive) you are. Here are some common options:
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Move around the room and stand, sit or crouch near learners.
Advantages: You can hear and see more clearly, intervene quickly if needed.
Disadvantages: Can feel intrusive or intimidating to learners. -
Stand behind learners.
Advantages: Less visually intimidating; learners may feel more comfortable speaking naturally.
Disadvantages: Harder to make eye contact or check written work. -
Stay in the centre of the room.
Advantages: You’re accessible to everyone while keeping a low profile.
Disadvantages: You may not catch all the details of what’s being said. -
Withdraw slightly to the side.
Advantages: Least intrusive; learners often forget you’re there, encouraging more authentic language use.
Disadvantages: You may miss errors or misunderstandings.
Where possible, avoid “looming” over learners – crouch down or pull up a chair to bring yourself to their level. This feels less threatening and more collaborative.
What are we looking for when monitoring?
While monitoring, check that learners:
- Understand the task and are following the instructions.
- Are on track and actively engaged.
Beyond that, listen for:
- Good ideas and effective communication.
- Accurate and appropriate language use.
- Errors (depending on the focus of the activity).
- Interesting or funny stories to mention during feedback.
When should you join in or interrupt?
Think about the aim of the activity:
- If the focus is on accuracy, you can interrupt to correct or guide learners.
- If the focus is on fluency, avoid interrupting. Instead, note down errors or issues to address in feedback later.
What if some learners don’t understand the task?
If you notice one learner, pair, or group who are off-track or confused, quietly re-explain the instructions to them without disturbing others.
If it becomes clear that the whole class has misunderstood, stop the activity and re-instruct everyone as a group before continuing.
Final thoughts
Monitoring is more than just walking around – it’s a thoughtful process that helps you support your learners without getting in the way of their communication. By observing strategically, listening closely, and choosing the right moment to intervene, you can make your classroom activities more meaningful and effective.
Have questions or want to share your own monitoring tips? Feel free to leave a comment below.
