English as a Second Language classes help adults and children learn to speak, write and read in the English language. People in these classes often have contrasting backgrounds and are able to speak English at different levels, which makes educating ESL students difficult. Although they have the opportunity to learn about students' different cultures, teachers need to find ways to communicate with students who have little or no grasp of the English language.

Language Barriers
The biggest challenge that ESL teachers face on a daily basis is communicating with their students. It is especially difficult for teachers of beginning-level classes because their students are often able to say few or no words in English. Educators often have to start out with simple words and phrases, such as "hello" and "how are you." Even in intermediate and advanced classes, ESL teachers will experience moments where their students are not able to understand a word or phrase they use. They often have to use gestures, written words, objects and images to help students understand what they are saying. Teachers should make sure that students know phrases such as "I need help" or "I do not understand." Hearing teachers speak in English can often help students get used to the language and start speaking it themselves, according to the Internet TESL Journal.

Cultural Clashes
Cultural barriers can sometimes present a challenge to ESL teachers, especially when they are teaching students from many different backgrounds. Students may have a difficult time relating to teachers because they follow different cultural or religious traditions than their educators. Teachers need to create an open and tolerant environment within the classroom to gain students' trust. The teacher can structure lessons around topics such as marriage traditions, food, education structure, money, government structure, jobs and family structures. Putting students in groups and having them talk about their different cultural traditions allows students to learn about other cultures and practice English.

Student Needs
Students in ESL classes often need more personal attention from teachers than students in other types of classes. Teachers sometimes have to get help from volunteers and assistants, who can devote time to individual students' needs, but it can be difficult for educators to develop close relationships with students if they cannot give them personal attention. Teachers in ESL classes need to be prepared to spend time before and after class working with some students. If they are not able to find the time to help students, they should direct them to tutors or English-learning tools, such as computer programs. Certain students, such as those working toward gaining U.S. citizenship, may ask them for extra help outside the classroom.

Class Sizes and Materials
Many ESL teachers are dealing with larger class sizes. The growing need for ESL classes means that some people have to be on waiting lists before they can get into classes. This is especially true with intermediate and advanced classes, because many ESL programs have to devote their resources and teachers to beginning-level classes. Increasing class sizes can mean that some students have to share materials, such as books. ESL teachers often have the challenge of having to share books and other materials with other teachers. Educators have to use supplemental materials, such as newspapers, photocopies and objects, to teach students.