Esl Teaching Methods

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. In other words, it is a teaching qualification for teaching English to anyone whose first language isn’t English. TEFL certificates are academic qualifications that are provided upon successful completion of a TEFL course. TEFL certificates can be used anywhere in the world, although the TEFL acronym is most commonly used when referring to teachers in the UK and Europe. Almost all schools expect their ESL teachers to be fluent in the English language, with sound communication skills and an ESL teaching qualification (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA). CELTA shares some similarities with TEFL and TESOL courses. It is overseen by the Cambridge university and is predominantly a qualification for teaching English to adult learners. TEFL and TESOL...  [Read more]

  What are ESL games? ESL games are games that can be used in the classroom to practice certain language points and encourage active and creative communication between your students. There are many different games created specifically for use in the English language classroom that can be found online or in any number of resource books. But we are not limited only to those games designed for the class. The majority of games that we played as children or still play as adults can be adapted and used in lessons. Whether games are co-operative or competitive, they provide students with a goal and in the English classroom this goal can only be reached by using the English they have learnt. Common Misconceptions about games in the classroom. "Games are fun but are not suitable for the...  [Read more]

  This video is a review of the conditionals in the English language. We take a look at the zero conditional, first conditional, second conditional, third conditional and mixed conditional. This video is specifically aimed at teaching the conditionals in an ESL setting. 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 taught me the different advantages/disadvantages to various types of client situations (one on one or in groups). I learned a lot...  [Read more]

TEFL and ESL teaching are both related to teaching English to non-native speakers, but there are some key differences between the two approaches. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) typically refers to teaching English in a non-English speaking country where English is not commonly spoken outside the classroom. On the other hand, ESL (English as a Second Language) teaching usually takes place in an English-speaking country, where students are immersed in an English-speaking environment. In terms of the target audience, TEFL students are often learning English for academic purposes or to enhance their career opportunities in their home country. In contrast, ESL students may be immigrants or international students looking to improve their English language skills to function in...  [Read more]

  Linda lives in China and is taking the 120-hour TEFL course with ITTT. This is the fifth installment of her TEFL review video journal outlining her experiences on the course. In this video Linda tells us about unit 5 of the course which covers aspects of classroom management. The unit has plenty of useful information on how students can be grouped within class and the types of activities that are suitable for different groupings. It also covers ways of dealing with problem behavior and methods for engaging students when they may not be interested in learning. At a quarter of the way through the course Linda is still clearly excited about earning her TEFL certificate. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course....  [Read more]

All ITTT TEFL courses result in a certificate that can be used when applying for ESL teaching positions anywhere in the world. Our TEFL courses range from 120-hours up to 550-hours. The majority of ESL teachers select an online course due to the flexibility of a self-paced course and its cheaper price. While these two factors make the courses ideal for most people, there are some real benefits to taking an in-class course over 4 weeks. The in-class courses are structured 4-week courses with face-to-face instruction from professional TEFL trainers. During an in-class course, trainees cover the same teaching techniques as the 120-hour online course with the added advantage of being able to put them into practice at local schools. After each class is taught by a trainee, the TEFL trainers...  [Read more]

  "In this video, our OTP trainee Richard introduces the topic of modal verbs. They are used to express ability, possibility, permission or obligation. Richard also introduces modal verbs in different tenses such as the past and the future to his students. ITTT's Observed Teaching Practice courses (OTP) are ideal for teachers wanting to improve their teaching skills remotely from anywhere in the world." 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. ...  [Read more]

Globalization and the increasing demand for English speaking professionals all over the world, especially in emerging regions, has brought about a new, steadily growing sector: English as a Second Language (ESL). An ESL teacher is, therefore, an educator who works with English Language Learners (ELLs) whose native language is not English. The goal of the ESL teacher is to help the students reach a certain level of fluency in English, on both a spoken and written level. ESL educators are not to be confused with foreign language teachers. ESL teachers do not share the same native language and are specifically trained to offer explanations and directed teaching methods to non-English speakers. This teaching style is mainly focused on repetition, drills, demonstrations, and visuals. ...  [Read more]

When selecting a TEFL course, it is best to narrow your focus to the courses that will give you the best chance to achieve your goals. TEFL qualified teachers are employed in a range of roles. Most notably, teaching children in a school setting, teaching business English at a language center, working as a private tutor, or teaching English online. Keeping your options open is a good approach, but it isn't for everyone. Understandably, some teachers limit their options to employment in a specific area or to the flexibility of online teaching jobs. If you wish to teach English via a virtual platform, it is advisable to complete a qualification which includes specific certification in teaching English online. Identifying the type of students that you would like to teach can also impact...  [Read more]

  In this TEFL review video Geoff tells us that he has just finished a 120-hour online TEFL course with ITTT. Geoff has been in China for some time and decided to take the course to take advantage of his business background in China. He found the course to be challenging but rewarding with a good combination of video tutorials and online reading. 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 covered some of the different groups of students that an...  [Read more]

  Globalization and the increasing demand for English speaking professionals all over the world, especially in emerging regions, has brought about a new, steadily growing sector: English as a Second Language (ESL). An ESL teacher is, therefore, an educator who works with English Language Learners (ELLs) whose native language is not English. The goal of the ESL teacher is to help the students reach a certain level of fluency in English, on both a spoken and written level. ESL educators are not to be confused with foreign language teachers. ESL teachers do not share the same native language and are specifically trained to offer explanations and directed teaching methods to non-English speakers. This teaching style is mainly focused on repetition, drills, demonstrations, and...  [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]

To find TEFL teaching jobs in countries with diverse educational needs, there are several strategies you can employ. One of the most effective methods is to utilize online job boards and websites that specialize in advertising teaching positions abroad. Websites such as Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESL Employment are popular platforms where schools from around the world post job openings for TEFL teachers. Networking is also a valuable tool in the job search process. Joining online TEFL forums and social media groups can connect you with other teachers who may have insights or leads on job opportunities in countries with diverse educational needs. Additionally, attending TEFL conferences and workshops can help you make valuable connections with schools and recruiters. Another way to find...  [Read more]

  This TESOL review was recorded by ITTT graduate Julia. Julia is a full time college student with a full time job and her situation shows just how beneficial ITTT?s online courses are for those with a very busy schedule. Despite studying and working full time Julia was still able to find time to complete her course without feeling pressured to complete more than she was comfortable with. Although Julia found the final lesson planning task to be particularly challenging she found the experience to be rewarding and can see how overcoming the challenge will benefit her future classes. 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...  [Read more]

It doesn’t matter whether you choose an in-class TEFL course or an online course, the skills and knowledge gained during an ITTT course will never expire. Successfully completing an ITTT course results in an academic qualification that is valid for life. Trainees of ITTT’s online courses complete regular assessments throughout the course to test their understanding of the course material. A further written summative task is the final task of each course. While your certificate won't expire, it isn't uncommon for teachers to feel the need to improve or refresh their skills. One option is to take a 120-hour online TEFL course to refresh your knowledge. Another option is to take one of our short specialized TEFL courses to extend your skills in a particular area of teaching. There are...  [Read more]

TEFL and TESOL courses can be taken online, in-class or as a combined course (mixed online and in-class training). An internationally recognised TEFL qualification should contain at least 120 hours of externally validated study. Depending on the visa rules of the country that you would like to work in, a degree may also be necessary. More information about BA and MA TESOL programs can be seen on our Upgrade your Qualifications page. There are some clear advantages to taking an in-class TEFL course. The main benefit comes from the observed teaching practice sessions and the confidence that is instilled in new teachers. Face-to-face instruction also gives the TEFL trainer more opportunity to impart their knowledge and guide the trainee on areas that they feel are particularly important. The...  [Read more]

  Former ESL student Kieu recorded this TEFL review after completing her TEFL course online with ITTT. Already an English teacher, Kiue thought taking the course was the best decision of her career. The course gave her the confidence to apply appropriate teaching methods in her classroom. 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 section, I was introduced to various planning strategies as well as ideas for activities. The text starts with a brief...  [Read more]

When it comes to ranking educational qualifications by their difficulty level, many countries have their own ranking system. For example, there are 9 different levels that courses can be classed as within the UK. Level 1: GCSE - grades 3, 2, 1 or grades D, E, F, G Level 2: GCSE - grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 or grades A*, A, B, C Level 3: A level Level 4: Certificate of higher education (Cert HE) Level 5: Diploma of higher education (Dip HE) Level 6: Degree with honors - for example bachelor of the arts (BA) hons Level 7: Master’s degree, for example Master of Science (MSc) Level 8: Doctorate, for example doctor of philosophy (PhD or DPhil) Depending on which National Qualification Framework (NQF) you are referencing, you may...  [Read more]

Throughout the world a significant percentage of ESL teaching positions are filled locally via face-to-face interviews. However, there are many countries where recruitment is typically undertaken in advance from within the teacher's home country. This method of securing a position is particularly convenient for newly qualified teachers and those with little or no experience of international travel. The application process is usually conducted via email, while interviews take place via Skype or phone. Securing a job in advance usually means you will receive assistance with obtaining the necessary visas and work permits. Employers may also provide financial assistance with airfares, health insurance and accommodation on arrival. One drawback is the time needed to complete the recruitment...  [Read more]

In the same way that we would expect our surgeon, dentist or airline pilot to have undertaken some training, our students of English might also expect their teachers to be trained and competent. What does it mean that our English teacher is competent? Possibly there are two major components to the answer: 1. The teacher has adequate subject knowledge. 2. The teacher has some classroom delivery skills. First you need to find a course that offers these components. While many native English speakers have learned the rules of English grammar sub-consciously as part of their language development, this does not give them the necessary subject knowledge required to teach English. So both native English speakers (NES) and non-native English speakers (NNES) should have some background knowledge of...  [Read more]

  This video looks at the structure of the positive form of the Present Simple tense. The negative form and the question form will be covered in other videos. The Present Simple talks about facts, habits and routines. Positive structure: subject + base form of the verb I/You/We/They teach English. He /She/It teaches English. There are a number of rules associated with the formation of the base verb. For most verbs add s to the base form of the verb -- plays, works... Verbs ending in o, s, z, ch, sh add es -- does, goes, washes... Verbs ending in a consonant plus y, change the y to i and add es -- cries, flies tries.... The verb be becomes am/is/are. The verb have becomes have/has. As a certified TEFL graduate you could gain a teaching position in a public school, a private...  [Read more]

First we need to define what TEFL means before looking at the various ways in which it can be examined to provide a teaching certificate. There are various locations in which a TEFL exam can be taken and different methods of instruction, these will also be considered. The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and it can be used in any situation where the English language is being taught to non-native English speakers. Technically speaking, TEFL refers to teaching English in countries where English is not the native language. It is a term used mainly in the UK and is used interchangeably with the equivalent USA term TESOL. As with any profession, teaching has a series of exams at different levels. Within the world of ESL the entry level examination for teachers is...  [Read more]

  Paul from Australia is currently living in Manila in the Philippines. Paul took the 120-hour online TESOL course without tutor from ITTT. In this TESOL review video, Paul tells us that he found the course to be challenging and rewarding and had a great time completing but feels it would have been better to take the course with tutor support. Since completing the course Paul has been able to observe ESL lessons at the local international school and is looking forward to starting his new career as a TESOL teacher. 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...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are both certifications that enable individuals to teach English as a foreign language. However, there are some key differences between the two. One major difference is the focus and intensity of the courses. TEFL courses are generally more broad and cover a range of teaching English concepts and methods. They are often shorter in duration and can be taken online or in person. On the other hand, CELTA courses are more intensive and focus specifically on teaching English to non-native speakers. They are usually full-time courses that last for four to five weeks and include a significant amount of practical teaching experience. Another difference is the recognition and...  [Read more]

Teaching English in Austria can be a rewarding experience for those looking to immerse themselves in a new culture while sharing their language skills. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to secure a job teaching English in Austria. Firstly, it is essential to have a recognized TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have the necessary skills to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. There are various TEFL courses available online and in-person, ranging from 120-hour courses to more advanced diplomas. Once you have obtained your TEFL certification, the next step is to research job opportunities in Austria. Many language schools, international schools, and universities in Austria hire English...  [Read more]

If you are looking to find TEFL teaching jobs online, there are several avenues you can explore to secure a position that suits your preferences and qualifications. One of the most popular ways to find TEFL teaching jobs online is through specialized job boards and websites dedicated to English teaching positions worldwide. Websites such as Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment are great resources for finding job postings from schools and language institutions around the globe. These platforms allow you to filter job listings based on your preferred location, salary range, and teaching experience. Another effective method to find TEFL teaching jobs online is by directly contacting language schools, universities, and online teaching platforms. Many institutions actively recruit...  [Read more]

TEFL related teaching jobs are available in almost every country worldwide and due to a huge demand for qualified teachers, jobs are all but guaranteed in some areas. To ensure you have the widest range of positions to choose from and the best chance of landing that dream job, there are several things you can do to put yourself at the head of the queue. If you are looking for a job outside the country you are currently in, then using online searches is a common option. There are many job boards online that post available positions from countries worldwide. The majority of these jobs will be in regions where the demand for teachers is so high that employers are happy to hire teachers without the need for a face-to-face interview. These are most likely to be found in Asia, the Middle...  [Read more]

Navigating your way through the different TEFL certification options can be daunting. Luckily, we are here to shed some light on the different levels available for TEFL courses. The frameworks' general characteristics are often related to various factors, including the total number of hours spent studying, the certification type, if the program includes a practical component, and the method of study (full-time or part-time). A level 5 TEFL course is in the upper range of the framework, meaning it is among the more advanced TEFL certifications out there. A level 5 TEFL qualification is equivalent to a CELTA or Foundation Degree. This level is ideal for obtaining the top TEFL positions available. Whether online or abroad, better-paying TEFL jobs will be easier to find. A level 5...  [Read more]

Many TEFL qualified teachers head overseas to look for excitement, adventure, new experiences, and to simply get away from the daily grind, but not all are aware of the potential to earn a very good living whilst doing so. In some parts of the world teachers can earn more than enough to live a high quality of life and also afford to put aside a considerable sum each month to pay off student debts or to save for future travel etc. As demand for qualified teachers continues to grow in many areas, so do the potential salaries on offer. When looking for a teaching job, it is always advisable to weigh up the salary on offer in comparison with the local cost of living as this can vary considerably from one country to the next. A monthly salary of $1000 in Bolivia would allow you to live a...  [Read more]

Job interviews are notorious for causing anxiety, but if you know what to expect and you prepare accordingly you should find they are not as bad as you are expecting. The essential nature of any interview is to show that you are confident in your teaching ability, keen to get started, and able to fit into the existing workforce. By doing some research and planning in advance, you should be able to demonstrate all of this and land the job on the spot. The worldwide market for teaching English abroad covers dozens of countries and many types of employer. In some situations it is normal to complete the recruitment process before leaving home, including an interview conducted via Skype or phone. However, in many of the most popular destinations employers prefer to recruit their teachers...  [Read more]