[Fletch]

Definitely the 7 and 8 year olds!

They are full of energy and are excited about every class. Never a dull moment especially when the games come out.

[HUE]

Living in Korea,

You wrote that a good mix of adults and children is needed to avoid falling into a rut. For me, though, I don't think this holds true. Like any job, you (one) need to set new goals with which to challenge yourself (oneself)--regardless of which age you (one) teach.

I used to teach JHS students when first in Japan, and kept the job for three years. It was great, but I also knew when it was time to move on. Now I prefer adult classes because their life experience can be incorporated into the classroom. I also like using current events (or making references to what's happening in the world today) in the classroom. Hence my website, which also provides new challenges for me. I couldn't (and wouldn't) want to go back to children, with the exception of teaching my own daughter English.

I agree with you that a mix is important, though, especially when you start out teaching. Because I taught in the public school system in Japan, I understand more about the education system here. It translates quite well into what students know and don't know, their strengths and weaknesses, and all-around structure of learning for adults when they later return to study the language. There's a lot of experience to be gained from different age groups and different levels, which can be used in unforeseen ways later down the career path.

Chris Cotter
www.headsupenglish.com

[Denis DNT]

Some adults are really terrible.
Your first class with them turns into a 'last round interview session' after the one you just had a few days ago with the recruiter. They fire tons of questions at you.

I think most of them are actually looking for a foreign friend not a teacher.

On the other hand come see my elementary kids on me pulling down all my stuff searching for candy and stickers as rewards for the good work they have done in class.
Just awesome!

But don't think you are teaching anything to those middle /high school day dreamers. All they are doing is laughing at your silly lessons and seeing how similar or different you are to their favorite NBA star, singer or movie star.

[yucatan]

Hi to all
I ve taught every age group, and like the variety.My last job was business English at 7 in the morning, teenagers after school, and younger kids Saturday morning, but I do think 9 to 11 age group is the most fun.
I agree also with the person who said you can use the same materials, just a different attitude.I have many activities that I ve used with 10 year olds as well as business people...no problem!
I will get round to sharing some of my ideas with eslhq, my favorite teaching website...brilliant, thanks.