What is the age group and what is the subject?

Was this question just another troll?

Not a troll, Martin. I know you've gotten into online arguments with trolls recently, but that doesn't mean everyone else is one.

I'm having serious trouble managing my classes...i teach English to classes of 45-50 students, aged between 15-17. The ones hovering around 15 are a little wild and rude, the ones closer to 17 are so apathetic you'd think someone had sedated them before class.

I guess the first is a management problem, the second is just a motivation issue. I don't know...just find it tough, especially the older jaded kids...just feel like slapping them sometimes.

Maybe knowing the difference between Chinese style and western style may help.

Western teachers teach to individuals who make up a group.

Chinese teachers teach to a group which happens to be made up of individuals.

This allows a Chinese teacher to teach classes of 150 students in the age group you mention.

Western teachers complain about classes larger than 30 and share your concerns.

Observe some Chinese teachers. It is very difficult to accept their ways, about as hard as a Chinese teacher adopting western teaching methodology.

Best wishes.

I think Martin is " "

I would sort of agree with him somehow ... We are after all, in there country with there methodology.

We "must" adapt ... but above all remember that schools in China is all about business.
Use that as a strategy

As long as the parents see a westerner teaching and there child happy your boss will cherish you!

have fun with the kids! Right Martin?

That is all.

Just teach and ignore bad students, ignore all students, you are just presenting if that is the size of the class or let Chinese teachers do it, as a certain troll here mentioned.
best bet is just to quit and get something realistic. Waste of time for students but if it pays well, take the money and laugh.