Build A Rapport With Students

  Our next consideration is going to be building and maintaining rapport. The importance of rapport is that within our communicative activities, we're asking the students to talk to each other. If they feel comfortable with each other and with us, then that interaction is much more likely to be useful. So how do we actually build and maintain rapport? Well, it's easiest if we consider two stages of the course itself. What we can do at the start of the course and what we can do throughout the course to help build and maintain that rapport. So at the start of the course, it's very useful if we ask the students to create a name card and to make that name card visible to everyone. Secondly we need to try to do some ice breaking activities that will allow the students to interact with...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word "belated". This word refers to something that happened later than it should have. A common use of the word is in the following phrase "Happy belated birthday," used by people who wish someone a happy birthday after the actual birthday. Synonyms for belated include late and overdue. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. From this unit I have a greater understanding of how create my own lesson...  [Read more]

Creating a supportive learning environment in your TEFL classroom is essential for fostering a positive and effective learning experience for your students. Here are some key strategies to help you achieve this goal: Establish clear expectations: Start by setting clear expectations for behavior, participation, and academic performance. Clearly communicate these expectations to your students and consistently reinforce them throughout the course. Encourage open communication: Create a safe and inclusive space where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas. Encourage open communication by actively listening to your students, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a sense of mutual respect. Promote collaboration: Encourage collaboration among your students by...  [Read more]

A TEFL certificate can indeed be a valuable asset when teaching English to indigenous communities. Indigenous communities often have unique language and cultural backgrounds, making it crucial for English teachers to have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate and connect with their students. Here are some reasons why a TEFL certificate can be beneficial in this context: Firstly, a TEFL certificate provides you with essential teaching skills and techniques that can help you create engaging and effective lessons for indigenous learners. These communities may have specific learning styles and needs that require a teacher to be adaptable and resourceful in their approach. A TEFL course equips you with the tools to plan lessons, manage classroom dynamics, and assess...  [Read more]

  "They're", "their" and "there" are three words that are often used incorrectly. "They're" is simply the contracted form of "they are". "Their" is a possessive and indicates ownership of something. "There" indicates a place. Due to the Internet and instant messaging, the three words have been icreasingly used incorrectly. However, if you'd like to use them correctly, you should keep their meanings in mind. When trying to decide which word to use remember that "they're" = they are, "their" = ownership and "there" = place. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly...  [Read more]

  In this video Iban teaches a lesson on 'like' and 'as'. He warms the students up before moving onto the lesson point where he outlines the different uses of 'like' and 'as'. He ends the lesson with activities to get the students the language they have learned. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. I love the fact that it gives many resources that I can look up and in looking up the information. Aa I look up the sites I am bookmarking them so that I...  [Read more]

  Our next category in our series of teaching special groups in ESL is English for specific purposes. This video focuses specifically on teaching business English. How is business Enligsh different to general English? Will you be able to teach business English? Find out in this video. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. I have learnt from this unit the complexity of future tenses. I have learnt that so many tenses can be used with future meanings....  [Read more]

Teaching English in a diverse environment can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. To prepare for teaching in such a setting, there are several key steps you can take to ensure that you are well-equipped to meet the needs of your students and create a positive and inclusive learning environment. First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the cultural backgrounds and languages of your students. This will help you better understand their perspectives and tailor your teaching approach to meet their specific needs. Take the time to learn about the customs, traditions, and communication styles of the cultures represented in your classroom. Additionally, it is important to be sensitive to the diverse learning styles and abilities of...  [Read more]

  It is very important that whenever we?re doing an activity that we use the students names wherever possible when we're asking for feedback and so on and so forth. There are a number of benefits to using the students? names and they can include helping to actually organize the class itself, certainly to acknowledge when a student has given the correct answer and so forth, to indicate who should respond, rather than just asking a general question to the whole class. By using the names we can ask an individual to respond to that particular question. One point to note here is that if you are going to ask an individual student it is very useful if you put their name at the end of the question. This is useful because if you start with their name then all of the other students know that...  [Read more]

Effective classroom management is crucial for creating a positive and productive learning environment in a TEFL classroom. Here are some common techniques that TEFL teachers can use to manage their classrooms effectively: Establishing clear expectations: Setting clear and consistent rules and expectations from the beginning helps students understand what is expected of them and reduces the likelihood of disruptions. Creating a positive classroom environment: Building a positive and supportive atmosphere where students feel safe and respected encourages active participation and engagement in the learning process. Using positive reinforcement: Acknowledging and praising good behavior can motivate students to continue behaving positively and can help build a strong rapport between the teacher...  [Read more]

  The good news is there is no real age restrictions on who can take a TEFL course and then go on to teach English abroad. At ITTT we do require you to be at least 18 years old to enroll on our courses but there are certainly no upper age limits. Over the years we have successfully trained people of all ages, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers as English language teachers. As long as you are a native or near-native English speaker who is keen to learn new skills and is open to new ideas, then your age should be no barrier to your success. Although a large number of new TEFL graduates are in their 20s, it doesn't mean they are always the most sought after by employers. Yes, there are many employers around the world who are only interested in recruiting younger...  [Read more]

Teaching English in a culturally diverse setting can be a rewarding experience, but it also requires careful preparation to ensure effective communication and understanding among students from different backgrounds. Here are some tips to help you prepare for teaching English in a culturally diverse setting. First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the cultural backgrounds of your students. Take the time to learn about their customs, traditions, and beliefs to better understand their perspectives and avoid unintentional misunderstandings. This cultural awareness will help you adapt your teaching approach to be more inclusive and respectful of the diversity in your classroom. In addition to understanding your students' cultures, it is important to create a welcoming...  [Read more]

A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate can be a valuable asset if you are interested in teaching English to refugees. The skills and knowledge gained through a TEFL certification can help you effectively communicate with students who are learning English as a second language, including refugees who may have specific language learning needs. First and foremost, a TEFL certificate equips you with the essential teaching techniques and strategies needed to create engaging and effective English language lessons. This can be particularly beneficial when working with refugees, as they may come from diverse linguistic backgrounds and have varying levels of English proficiency. By understanding how to tailor your teaching methods to meet the specific needs of your students, you...  [Read more]

  Absolutely YES! Large numbers of non-native English speakers complete our TEFL courses each year and go on to have successful careers teaching English either in their home country or further afield. In order to successfully complete the course you will need to demonstrate a high standard of English, but it is certainly not a barrier that will stop you from becoming a fully qualified EFL teacher. In many cases being a non-native English speaker can actually be an advantage in the classroom as you have already been through the same experience that your students are currently facing. This can help to build a good rapport between the students and the teacher as they are often less afraid of making mistakes in this situation. It can also provide the students with a real incentive to...  [Read more]

A TEFL certificate can definitely be a valuable asset when teaching English to indigenous populations. Indigenous communities often have unique language learning needs due to their cultural backgrounds and experiences. A TEFL certificate equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language to diverse groups of learners, including indigenous populations. One of the key benefits of having a TEFL certificate is that it provides you with a solid foundation in language teaching methodologies and classroom management techniques. This can be particularly important when working with indigenous learners who may have different learning styles or preferences compared to other student populations. By understanding and applying the principles of TEFL,...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can indeed work in correctional facilities, providing valuable educational opportunities to incarcerated individuals. Teaching English in these settings can be both rewarding and challenging, as it requires a unique set of skills and approaches to address the specific needs and circumstances of the learners. Here are some key points to consider for TEFL teachers interested in working in correctional facilities: First and foremost, it is essential for TEFL teachers working in correctional facilities to have a deep understanding of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of their students. Many incarcerated individuals may have limited access to education and face various barriers to learning, such as language difficulties, low literacy levels, or learning disabilities. As a...  [Read more]

Absolutely YES! Large numbers of non-native English speakers complete our TEFL courses each year and go on to have successful careers teaching English either in their home country or further afield. In order to successfully complete the course you will need to demonstrate a high standard of English, but it is certainly not a barrier that will stop you from becoming a fully qualified EFL teacher. In many cases being a non-native English speaker can actually be an advantage in the classroom as you have already been through the same experience that your students are currently facing. This can help to build a good rapport between the students and the teacher as they are often less afraid of making mistakes in this situation. It can also provide the students with a real incentive to succeed...  [Read more]

When teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), one of the key challenges that teachers often face is handling cultural differences in the classroom. Cultural differences can manifest in various ways, including communication styles, attitudes towards authority, and approaches to learning. As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to be aware of these differences and to develop strategies for effectively managing them in order to create a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students. One of the first steps in handling cultural differences in the classroom is to educate yourself about the cultural backgrounds of your students. Take the time to learn about their customs, traditions, and beliefs, as this will help you better understand where they are coming from and why they may...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a transitional society, there are several key steps you can take to ensure you are ready for the unique challenges and opportunities that come with this experience. First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the cultural and social context of the society where you will be teaching. Understanding the history, traditions, and current events of the country will not only help you connect with your students on a deeper level but will also allow you to tailor your teaching approach to their specific needs and interests. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the educational system in the country where you will be teaching. This includes understanding the curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment practices that are commonly used....  [Read more]

Yes, having a background in social sciences can be a valuable asset when pursuing a career in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad. While a degree in English or education is often preferred by some employers, many language schools and institutions also value candidates with diverse academic backgrounds, such as social sciences. Here are a few ways in which your background in social sciences can benefit you in the field of TEFL: 1. **Cultural Understanding**: Social sciences often focus on the study of societies, cultures, and human behavior. This knowledge can be particularly advantageous when teaching English to students from different cultural backgrounds. Understanding cultural nuances and societal norms can help you tailor your teaching methods to better connect with...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in an international school, there are several key steps you can take to ensure you are ready for this rewarding and challenging experience. First and foremost, it's essential to have a strong grasp of the English language yourself. This means having a deep understanding of grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and sentence structure. If English is not your first language, consider taking language courses or working with a tutor to improve your skills. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is highly recommended. These certifications provide you with the necessary training and credentials to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. Many...  [Read more]

  In this video we look at the structure of the past perfect tense. This tense is formed in the following way: Positive: Subject + had + past participle. I had Negative: Subject + had + not + past participle. Question: Had + subject + past participle? You can earn your certificate in teaching English online from ITTT. We have many different courses available suited to your needs. Whether you are starting out as an English teacher or if you are looking to expand your skills with a specialised course in teaching young learners or business English and if you are looking for something more advanced, there is the TESOL Diploma course. To start the process of getting your certificate in teaching English online, visit us at the link above. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a developing country, there are several key steps you can take to ensure a successful and fulfilling experience. First, it is important to research the specific country where you will be teaching. Learn about the culture, customs, and educational system to gain a better understanding of the context in which you will be working. This will help you adapt your teaching approach to better meet the needs of your students. Next, familiarize yourself with the language levels and learning styles of the students you will be teaching. This will help you tailor your lessons to their specific needs and abilities. Additionally, it is important to be flexible and adaptable in your teaching methods, as resources and technology may be limited in developing countries. It...  [Read more]

Becoming an effective TEFL instructor is a process that requires time, dedication, and continuous learning. While there is no set timeframe for how long it takes to become proficient in teaching English as a foreign language, there are several factors that can influence the timeline. First and foremost, obtaining a TEFL certification is a crucial step in becoming an effective instructor. This certification typically requires completing a course that can range from 120 to 150 hours of study. Some programs offer intensive courses that can be completed in a matter of weeks, while others are more flexible and allow you to study at your own pace. Once you have obtained your TEFL certification, gaining practical experience is essential for honing your teaching skills. This can involve...  [Read more]

To teach English in Indonesia, there are several requirements that you need to meet. Firstly, having a bachelor's degree is essential. Most schools and language institutions require a degree in English, Education, Linguistics, or a related field. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is highly recommended. These certifications provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Another important requirement is a work visa. To work legally in Indonesia, you need to obtain a work visa, also known as a KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas). This process can be complex and time-consuming, so it's advisable to secure a job offer from a...  [Read more]

A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate can be a valuable asset if you are considering teaching English to rural communities. Here are some reasons why obtaining a TEFL certificate can help you in this endeavor: 1. **Cultural Sensitivity and Understanding**: Rural communities often have unique cultural norms and values. A TEFL course typically includes training on intercultural communication, which can help you navigate cultural differences and build rapport with your students. 2. **Effective Teaching Strategies**: Teaching English to non-native speakers requires different techniques than teaching it to native speakers. A TEFL course equips you with a variety of teaching methodologies and strategies that can be particularly useful when working with students from diverse...  [Read more]

Preparing to teach English in a non-profit organization can be a rewarding experience. Here are some steps to help you get ready for this role: First, familiarize yourself with the organization's mission and goals. Understanding the purpose of the non-profit will help you align your teaching methods with their objectives. This will also help you tailor your lessons to meet the needs of the learners you will be working with. Next, assess the needs of the learners. Non-profit organizations often serve specific populations, such as immigrants, refugees, or low-income communities. Consider the language proficiency levels of the learners and any specific challenges they may face in learning English. This will help you design effective and relevant lessons. It's also important to brush up on...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, preparing for cultural differences is essential to create a successful learning environment for your students. Understanding and respecting the cultural backgrounds of your students can help build rapport, avoid misunderstandings, and enhance the overall learning experience. Here are some tips on how to prepare for cultural differences as a TEFL teacher: 1. Educate Yourself: Start by learning about the cultural norms, values, and communication styles of the country where you will be teaching. Researching online, reading books, and talking to people from that culture can provide valuable insights. 2. Reflect on Your Own Culture: Take time to reflect on your own cultural biases and assumptions. Awareness of your own cultural background can help you approach cultural...  [Read more]

  ITTT's in-dass TEFL certification courses are intensive four-week classroom based English teaching programs. They provide participants with plenty of practical teaching experience, in addition to a solid grounding in teaching methods and language concepts. At the end of the course graduates receive an internationally recognized TEFL qualification. EACH COURSE CONSISTS OF 120+ HOURS OF STUDY. PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE 6 TO 10 HOURS OF OBSERVED TEACHING PRACTICE COURSE PLACES ARE AVAILABLE IN 25+ LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE THE IN-CLASS COURSE COVERS SIX MAIN AREAS: TEACHING PRACTICE Trainees put theory into practice and gain valuable experience teaching real students. FOREIGN LANGUAGE EXPERIENCE Trainees are taught in an unknown language to encourage empathy with students. LANGUAGE...  [Read more]

Demand for TEFL qualified teachers is very strong in many parts of the world, which is why our TEFL courses are open to anyone who has a solid grasp of the English language. However, in order to successfully complete the course and go on to find a good quality teaching job you will need to put in some hard work and be willing to embrace new ideas and techniques. First and foremost, anyone thinking about earning their TEFL certification with ITTT needs to be enthusiastic, motivated and determined as every course requires a considerable amount of commitment in terms of both time and effort. If you are fully committed to becoming an English language teacher, either at home or abroad, then you should have little trouble successfully completing the course and becoming a qualified EFL...  [Read more]