As a former drama-worker fresh off a CELTA into my first job teaching English, I pride myself on finding fun ways to present grammar and get students to practise it without feeling the agony of chewing over the language. However, yesterday I had what felt to me like a pretty desk-bound class. It didn't help that it's reaching summer here in the desert and it was an evening class, all my students having come in from work or university hot and tired.

I'd planned the class on a pretty conventional format: warmer, present the context, pull out the language in a grammar focus - this time board based as I'm saving this week's guided discovery for a different language point - controlled practice, freer practice. I admit it was an easy point to present (talking about the future using 'be going to' and 'will') and the students all picked up the differences straight away. By the end of the class they were using the new language beautifully and looking at me as if I were an idiot for making them harp on the same subject.

I left feeling wonderful because they'd got it so well, but awful for giving them such a dull class! On the other hand, although recent classes have been very lively and enjoyable and they have eventually got a firm grip on new language, this is the first time they have produced it successfully, completely of their own volition in freer practice.

Its early days for me, so clearly I've got a lot of playing around to do with format and balance. I think I've just learned that what I may find interesting and useful is perhaps not everyone's bag of chips. Tips, hints and feedback from other new teachers and from wiser heads would be greatly appreciated!