Different Types Of Teaching Careers

  If you want to teach English as a foreign language abroad, you need to be aware of the different types of schools out there as they typically pay different salaries. Teaching salaries often depend on the type of school and the country you teach in.  [Read more]

  There are many different types of books that are useful in ESL teaching and these fall into three main categories: book series, general teaching theory books, and activity books. The best books for a teacher will depend entirely upon the situation they find themselves in and there is no ‘one answer fits all’ solution.  [Read more]

  There are many differences between teaching English in Asia and teaching English in Latin America, including the typical method of recruitment, how much you can earn and save during your stay, and the type of atmosphere to expect in the classroom.  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL course that aligns with your personal interests and career plans, there are several factors to consider. First, you should determine the type of TEFL certification you need based on your career goals. Different countries and employers may have specific requirements regarding the type and duration of TEFL courses they accept. For example, some may prefer or require a 120-hour in-person course, while others may accept online certifications. Next, consider the teaching opportunities you are interested in pursuing. If you plan to teach young learners, you may want to choose a course that includes a specialization in teaching children. Likewise, if you are interested in teaching business English, look for a course that offers a focus on teaching professional English skills....  [Read more]

  This video is part of our video series on "Evaluation and Testing of Students". In this video, we look at the most common academic English exams learners of English take around the world. It is important for EFL teachers to know these different types of proficiency test as they will most likely come across them during their teaching career. 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. This unit was actually fun surprisingly. i'm not sure how well i did on...  [Read more]

  Sonia recorded this TEFL review after completing the 120-hour online TEFL course from ITTT. The course has given her more confidence as a teacher as well as the chance to develop her skills in the profession. As a new graduate, Sonia is now looking to teach in China where she can put her newly learned teaching abilities to use and start her career as an English teacher abroad. 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 enjoyed being able to watch...  [Read more]

  This video from one of ITTT's online TEFL courses looks at the structure of the future perfect tense. Positive: Subject + will + have + past participle I will have finished... Negative: Subject + will + not + have + past participle I will not (won't) have finished ... Question: Will + subject + have + past participle? Will you have finished ...? More and more people see teaching English abroad as great way to learn new skills and gain valuable experience in an international setting before returning home and embarking on their career. Alternatively, others see teaching English as an opportunity to change direction in their career and to try something new. Either way, anyone looking to start teaching English abroad will need to be appropriately qualified. Have a look at the link...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word filibuster. This word can be used both as a noun and as a verb. As a noun, it refers to a speech that avoids the progress in a legislative assembly while not technically being illegal or unlawful. As a verb, it describes the action of acting in an obstructive manner in legislature. The word originates from the Dutch vrijbuiter meaning freebooter. 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. The...  [Read more]

  In this episode, Linda takes on the pronunciation of the word "anastrophe". Enjoy the episode! Linda is a German/American ITTT alumna, teaching English in South Korea. Be sure to like and share this video if you find it helpful. 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. In this lesson I learned about the different types of methodologies, as well as the engage,study and activate to help the student to learn more, also the straight arrow lesson order....  [Read more]

  Tracy from the USA took the in-class TEFL course in Prague, Czech Republic. In this TEFL review video she discusses her overall experience. Tracy was very satisfied with the support she received before and during the course. Prague is just one of many training centers around the world where ITTT's TEFL/TESOL courses are offered. 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. In unit nineteen I learned about the different types of classes I could be teaching...  [Read more]

  Ozlem from Turkey recorded this TESOL review video. Ozlem successfully completed the 120-hour online TESOL course with ITTT. During the course Ozlem learned many things to help her with her new teaching career. ITTT?s 120-hour online TESOL course covers a wide range of topics over a course of 20 units. All the units are designed to give trainees a solid grounding in teaching theory, teaching practice and language concepts. Topics include types of learners, teaching methods, classroom management, lesson planning, grammar, pronunciation and more. 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...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) are both certifications that qualify individuals to teach English as a foreign language. However, there are some key differences between the two that prospective teachers should be aware of before choosing which certification to pursue. One of the main differences between TEFL and CELTA is the level of recognition and accreditation. CELTA is a specific type of TEFL certification offered by Cambridge English, which is globally recognized and highly respected in the field of English language teaching. CELTA courses are standardized and follow a rigorous curriculum set by Cambridge English, ensuring a high level of quality and consistency. On the other hand, generic TEFL certifications...  [Read more]

There is no simple answer to this question as the reasons for teaching English are different for different people. For some it is the chance to help people who need English to improve their job status and to provide for their families. For others it is the adventure of heading overseas that is the real draw. With a TEFL qualification you can realistically look for work in almost any country you can think of. Another major benefit of teaching English that is often overlooked is that it provides a huge boost to the confidence and future careers of thousands of people who see it as a major step on their work and study journey. Whatever your own reasons for wanting to teach English, you will get to travel, help other people, and gain valuable work and life experience, all while exploring your...  [Read more]

  This video is part of our video series on "Evaluation and Testing of Students". In this video, we cover the different types of evaluations and testings that teachers, not only those working in the EFL field, will come across over the course of their career. 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. In the fourth unit \"Materials\" I got information about the materials, that are available in the Clifton usage. Also now I know how this material can be...  [Read more]

  There is no simple answer to this question as it depends entirely on which type of TEFL course you choose to study. At ITTT we have a range of courses that are designed to suit the various needs of our trainees, each with its own time scale for completion. Please see below for a breakdown of our various course options. Online courses are often the quickest route towards TEFL certification. If you are in a real hurry a course such as our 60-hour introduction to TEFL may be a good choice as you can conceivably complete it in as little as five days. Even those who prefer to study at a slower rate should find they can complete the course within one month. However, it is worth remembering that the majority of employers worldwide insist on job applicants having a TEFL certificate of...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can greatly enhance your chances of securing a job in international student programs. Many institutions and organizations around the world require their English language teachers to hold a TEFL certification. This certification serves as a validation of your skills and knowledge in teaching English as a foreign language, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Having a TEFL certification demonstrates to employers that you are committed to professional development and have received training in the best practices of language teaching. It also shows that you are equipped with the necessary tools to effectively manage a classroom of students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. In addition to meeting the requirements of employers, holding...  [Read more]

If you have already done some research into TEFL courses you might have noticed that they are usually given a level that places it somewhere on the hierarchy of available courses. This type of organization makes it much easier for teachers to compare different courses and to choose the best options to suit their own situation. However, the first thing to make clear about TEFL course levels is that there is not just one framework, as many countries and individual teaching organizations have developed their own versions. Despite this, the vast majority of frameworks are designed using the same type of criteria, which means that most are very similar in design. Although each framework might vary slightly, most are constructed based on the type of study, the hours involved, whether they are...  [Read more]

TEFL certifications come in various forms, each catering to different needs and preferences of aspiring English teachers. The most common types of TEFL certifications include online TEFL courses, in-person TEFL courses, and combined TEFL courses. Online TEFL courses are convenient for those who prefer to study at their own pace and from the comfort of their own home. These courses typically consist of modules that cover essential teaching skills, classroom management techniques, and lesson planning strategies. Online TEFL certifications are often more affordable than in-person options and can be completed in as little as a few weeks. In-person TEFL courses, on the other hand, provide a more immersive learning experience for individuals who prefer face-to-face interaction with instructors...  [Read more]

  This ITTT video outlines the structure of the Present Perfect Continuous tense, the tense that is used for events which started in the past and are still continuing, or which have stopped, but whose effects are still ongoing. This one of two videos -- this one focuses on the structure of the positive and negative forms. Positive form: subject + auxiliary verb 'have'/'has' + been + present participle I have been working for ten years. Negative form: subject + auxiliary verb 'have'/'has' + not +been + present participle She has not been working here for some time. It is essential for any TESOL course to provide teachers with a sound knowledge of the English language tense system and to give teachers the confidence to present productive, meaningful and correct information to...  [Read more]

  This video outlines the second of three teaching ideas for the Present Simple tense. The students each have a picture with the title "This is Nicola. Nicola is a student. This is her room." In the picture there are lots of items such as a television, a coffee pot, a guitar....In small groups the students list as many facts about Nicola as possible using the Present Simple. For example, She plays the guitar. She drinks coffee. She watches television. After a specified time the groups come together and share their answers with the class. ITTT provides a variety of TEFL online courses and certification options, all of which will give you the tools you need to begin your new career as a qualified English language teacher. Studying online is a convenient way to earn your teaching...  [Read more]

As the generally accepted minimum standard for mainstream teaching jobs is a level 4 qualification, a level 3 certificate alone would not be considered enough to teach English. However, before you make any decisions on which course to take it is best to be fully informed about the different course levels available. Once you have digested all the information below regarding course levels you should be ready to pick the right one to suit your current situation and your future plans. One important factor regarding TEFL course levels is that there are many different frameworks out there for ranking them. Many countries, regions, organizations, and course providers have their own system for ranking the available courses. However, despite the many frameworks, most are designed using the same...  [Read more]

Starting a career as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teacher can be both exciting and challenging. For many new teachers, the first year in the classroom can feel overwhelming as they navigate a new country, culture, and education system. However, there are various forms of support available to help TEFL teachers thrive in their first year. From pre-departure training to in-country support networks, let's explore the different types of support available for TEFL teachers in their first year. Before heading off to teach English abroad, many organizations and programs offer pre-departure support to help new teachers prepare for their upcoming adventure. This support can come in the form of online training courses, webinars, and resources that cover topics such as lesson...  [Read more]

When considering a career in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), one may come across both public and private teaching job opportunities. Understanding the differences between these two types of teaching environments is essential for teachers to make an informed decision about their career path. Public TEFL teaching jobs are typically positions within government-run educational institutions, such as public schools, universities, or language institutes that receive funding from the government. These jobs often offer more stability and job security as they are backed by the government. Public schools usually have a structured curriculum that teachers are required to follow, and there may be standardized tests that students must take. On the other hand, private TEFL teaching jobs...  [Read more]

Teaching English in any environment offers a wide variety of benefits that will enhance your future career, whatever path you choose to follow. If your English teaching experience also included an extended period living and working outside of your home country, then this will certainly look very appealing on your resume when applying for other jobs further down the line. In the modern age where every job seems to have a huge number of applicants and everyone seems to have a degree or other high-end qualifications, being able to add an overseas teaching adventure to your application could well be the difference between securing an interview and being put at the bottom of the pile. So what are the major benefits that teaching English abroad adds to your CV/resume? This is the most obvious...  [Read more]

The average salary for TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teachers can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the country where they are teaching, their level of experience, qualifications, type of institution they work for, and whether they are teaching online or in a physical classroom. In general, salaries for TEFL teachers can range from around $800 to $4,000 per month. In countries where the cost of living is lower, such as some parts of Asia and Latin America, salaries may be on the lower end of the scale. On the other hand, in countries with higher living costs, such as in Western Europe or the Middle East, salaries tend to be higher. TEFL teachers with more experience and higher qualifications, such as a Master's degree in TESOL (Teaching English to...  [Read more]

To answer the question "how much does it cost to get TEFL certified?" we need to consider various factors that influence the cost of obtaining a TEFL certification. The cost can vary significantly depending on the type of program, the location, the duration, and the quality of the course. Online TEFL certification programs are generally more affordable compared to in-person courses. Online courses can range from $200 to $500 for a basic 120-hour certification, while more comprehensive programs with additional features and specializations can cost up to $1000 or more. In-person courses, on the other hand, can range from $1000 to $3000 or even higher, depending on the location and the reputation of the institution providing the certification. Another factor that affects the cost of getting...  [Read more]

In order to allow potential trainees to compare different courses, many countries, organizations and TEFL course providers have developed their own course-level framework. At ITTT our framework currently runs from level 3 to level 7, covering our full selection of TEFL certification courses. On this scale it is generally agreed that a level 4 course is the minimum level expected by employers who are trying to fill vacancies for mainstream entry-level EFL teaching jobs. However, many trainees choose to start their teaching career with a higher level of training. A level 5 TEFL course will give you a genuine headstart on most other first-time teachers and allow you to apply for a wider range of jobs. A level 5 TEFL course on the ITTT scale is the equivalent of a standard CELTA certification...  [Read more]

When selecting a TEFL course that aligns with your career aspirations, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, you should assess the accreditation of the course. Look for programs that are accredited by recognized bodies such as the British Council, Cambridge English, or the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Accreditation ensures that the course meets certain quality standards and will be recognized by employers. Next, consider the course content. Think about the type of teaching you want to do - whether it's general English, business English, young learners, or exam preparation. Ensure that the course covers relevant topics and methodologies that will prepare you for your desired teaching context. Additionally, check if the course includes...  [Read more]

A TEFL certification exam is designed to assess your understanding and proficiency in teaching English as a foreign language. It typically covers various aspects of language teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management, grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and teaching methodologies. One of the key components of a TEFL certification exam is the theoretical knowledge of language teaching principles. This may include questions on different teaching approaches such as the communicative approach, task-based learning, or the audio-lingual method. You may also be tested on your understanding of language skills such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and how they can be effectively taught in the classroom. Another important aspect of a TEFL certification exam is lesson...  [Read more]

When choosing the right TEFL course to suit your future plans, it is important to understand the different levels of study involved so you are able to pick the right option that provides the qualifications you really need. While a level 3 course can be completed quite quickly and at a very affordable price, it might not give you the level of qualification that employers are looking for in your chosen destination. Equally, if you plan to volunteer as a teacher or work as a teaching assistant, a level 8 Master’s degree in TEFL will involve a bit more time, effort, and money than you really need to be investing. Check out our course levels page for more details. At ITTT we have a course-level framework that has been designed to make it easy for our trainees to compare our different course...  [Read more]