Basic crochet tools include hooks, yarn, scissors, and something to mark stitches with. Below are my recommendations for learners who are new to crochet.

A pair of scissors and something to mark stitches with. Learners can use actual "stitch markers" which clip into the stitches. Alternatives are bobby pins, safety pins, scrap yarn, or anything else that is small and can be threaded through stitches.

Hooks: Size 5, 5.5, or 6 (also labeled as H, I, or J). 

Yarn: The most common yarn is called "Worsted Weight." This is a good medium yarn that can work up quickly and make a complete project in a reasonable amount of time. Worsted weight is sometimes alternatively labeled as Size 4, medium weight, or Aran weight. Learners who are just starting should find an simple acrylic yarn in a light or medium color that they like (black yarns are notoriously hard to work with!). 

I recommend plain, medium to light colored acrylic yarn because it is easy to handle, is soft and doesn't fray, and usually shows stitches well so that new crocheters can see their work. It is often harder to see stitches with yarns that are very dark in color. Faux fur yarns, textured yarns, and novelty yarns can be too unwieldy or uncooperative for crocheters who are just starting out and still learning basic stitches. Yarns that are too bulky are often simply too heavy for new crocheters to handle, while yarn that is too fine can be frustrating because it works up very slowly and requires many more stitches to make a decently sized project.

Learners may need to use scissors, needles, and other tools to work on any projects in class.