Great Resources

Attending TEFL conferences is a great way for English language teachers to stay updated on the latest trends, methodologies, and resources in the field. There are numerous conferences held worldwide that cater to different aspects of TEFL, providing opportunities for professional development, networking, and learning from experts in the field. Here are some of the best TEFL conferences to consider attending: 1. TESOL International Convention: The TESOL International Convention is one of the largest and most well-known conferences in the field of English language teaching. It brings together thousands of educators, researchers, and experts to share their knowledge and best practices. The conference features a wide range of sessions, workshops, and presentations on various topics related to...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, having access to a variety of resources can greatly enhance your teaching effectiveness and student engagement. Here are some of the best resources for TEFL teachers: 1. **Online TEFL Platforms**: Websites like TEFL.org and i-to-i TEFL offer a wealth of resources including lesson plans, activities, and teaching tips. These platforms often have forums where teachers can share ideas and support each other. 2. **ESL Websites**: Websites such as ESL Library and Breaking News English provide ready-made lesson plans, worksheets, and activities for all levels of English learners. These resources are often updated regularly to keep lessons fresh and relevant. 3. **Teacher Blogs**: Many experienced TEFL teachers share their insights and resources on blogs. Websites like...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, there are numerous resources available to help you improve your skills and enhance your teaching practice. These resources range from online courses and webinars to books, blogs, podcasts, and teaching forums. By utilizing these tools, you can stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methodologies, improve your language proficiency, and connect with other professionals in the field. Online courses are a popular option for TEFL teachers looking to enhance their skills. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and TEFL courses offered by universities provide a wide range of courses on topics such as classroom management, lesson planning, and teaching grammar. These courses are often self-paced, allowing you to study at your own convenience. Webinars are another valuable resource...  [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]

  This ITTT video examines the negative structure of the Present Simple tense. The positive and questions forms are covered in other videos. Negative: subject + auxiliary verb 'do' + not + base form of the verb I/You/We/They do not teach. He /She/It does not teach. It is always important to teach the contracted forms i.e. do not - don't, does - doesn't. In the negative form the auxiliary verb (also called the helping verb) doesn't has the s so the main verb doesn't need an s -- for example, He doesn't teach. ITTT's teaching courses equip graduates with the qualification and skills necessary to obtain teaching positions globally. Our graduates are in high demand because of the professional level of training and learning acquired on our courses. As a result of this our...  [Read more]

Finding TEFL teaching jobs in countries with limited resources can be a rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. While it may seem challenging at first, there are several strategies you can employ to secure a teaching position in these regions. 1. **Research**: Start by researching countries that have a high demand for English teachers but may have limited resources. Countries in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America often fall into this category. Look for job postings on online platforms, forums, and social media groups dedicated to TEFL opportunities in these regions. 2. **Network**: Networking is key in the TEFL industry, especially when looking for jobs in countries with limited resources. Reach out to fellow TEFL teachers, alumni from your TEFL course, or contacts...  [Read more]

  No, TEFL certificates do not expire, they are valid for life. Once you have completed your course, either online or by attending a training center, you will be able to start work straight away or set off on your travels and use it later when your funds starts to get low. A TEFL certificate really is a great qualification to have in your backpack or briefcase as you can use it to earn a good income at any time, in any part of the world. Although your certification will never expire, we do recommend that you continue to develop your skills and knowledge as you progress in your teaching career. Additional courses such as an advanced TEFL Diploma or a specialized certificate in teaching business English or teaching young learners will build on your existing skills, allowing you to...  [Read more]

  WHAT ARE IELTS AND TOEFL? IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. They are the two main English-language tests in the world. IELTS is a United Kingdom and Commonwealth based test and TOEFL is U.S. based. 2. WHAT DO THEY INVOLVE? Both IELTS and TOEFL test non-native speakers for proficiency in the English language. They assess test-takers' skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. IELTS offers two test options: an academic test and a general training test. The general training test is aimed at immigrants and those seeking work abroad. TOEFL tests are mostly aimed at non-native English speakers wanting to study at U.S. universities. TOEFL also offers a Junior TOEFL test for middle school...  [Read more]

Networking with other TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teachers is a valuable way to share resources, ideas, and support within the field. There are several effective ways to connect with other TEFL teachers and build a professional network: 1. Attend TEFL conferences and workshops: Conferences and workshops provide opportunities to meet and connect with other teachers, share experiences, and learn about new teaching methodologies and resources. 2. Join TEFL organizations and online communities: Joining professional organizations such as TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) or IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language) can help you connect with other teachers in the field. Online communities like Facebook groups or...  [Read more]

Finding accommodation while teaching abroad is an essential aspect of your experience as an English teacher in a foreign country. There are several key steps you can take to ensure you secure suitable housing during your time abroad. Firstly, many TEFL programs and language schools offer assistance with finding accommodation for their teachers. It's advisable to inquire with your employer or program coordinator to see if they provide any support in this area. They may have partnerships with local real estate agents or know of suitable housing options in the area. If your employer does not offer assistance, there are still plenty of resources available to help you find accommodation independently. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Craigslist are popular platforms where you can search...  [Read more]

Creating engaging online TEFL lessons is essential for keeping your students motivated and interested in learning English. Below are some key strategies and tips to help you design dynamic and interactive lessons that will captivate your students and enhance their language learning experience. First and foremost, it's important to vary your lesson formats to cater to different learning styles and preferences. Incorporate a mix of activities such as videos, interactive quizzes, games, role-plays, and group discussions to keep your students engaged and interested in the lesson content. Another effective strategy is to make your lessons relevant and relatable to your students' interests and everyday lives. Incorporate real-life scenarios, topics, and materials that are meaningful to your...  [Read more]

Finding TEFL teaching jobs in countries with economic challenges can be a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact while gaining valuable teaching experience. Here are some tips to help you secure a TEFL job in such countries: 1. **Research the Country's Economic Situation:** Before applying for TEFL jobs, research the economic challenges facing the country. Understanding the economic context will help you assess the job market, living conditions, and potential salary expectations. 2. **Utilize Online Job Boards:** Many online job boards specialize in TEFL positions worldwide. Websites like Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and TESall are great resources for finding TEFL jobs in countries with economic challenges. These platforms often have job listings in a variety of...  [Read more]

To make your TEFL classes more interactive and fun, there are several strategies and activities you can incorporate into your teaching approach. Firstly, consider incorporating games into your lessons. Games are a great way to engage students and make learning enjoyable. You can use popular games like Jeopardy, Pictionary, or Bingo to review vocabulary, grammar, or other language concepts. Games not only make learning more fun but also encourage friendly competition and collaboration among students. Another effective way to make your TEFL classes more interactive is through group work and pair work activities. These activities allow students to practice speaking and listening skills in a more dynamic and engaging way. You can assign group projects, role plays, debates, or discussions on...  [Read more]

  Kayo lives in Japan and took the 120-hour TEFL course with tutor support and videos from ITTT. In this TEFL review video. Kayo outlines her reasons for taking the course. As a mother she wants to be a great teacher to enable local children to use English as tool for sharing their own culture and to help expand their horizons. 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 about teaching materials. I learned the difference between authentic...  [Read more]

General English classes are commonly taught all over the world and in many language centers and private companies you will also find business English classes being taught to a wide range of corporate clients. The need for business English classes is driven by the continued march of English as the language of international trade and industry, and there are no signs of this slowing down anytime soon. So what exactly is business English and how does it differ from general English teaching? Business English is a unique area of teaching that comes under the banner of English for Specific Purposes (ESP). Business English courses are designed for employees of any type of company who need to communicate using English in the workplace. Business English classes can cover a range of areas including:...  [Read more]

  In this TESOL review video, ITTT course graduate Adilet from the Kyrgyz Republic shares his thoughts on taking online TEFL courses with ITTT. He took ITTT's 120-hour online TEFL course and had a great experience with the course. He learned a lot about classroom management, lesson planning and other useful resources for teaching. He recommends ITTT to anyone.  [Read more]

For TEFL teachers who appreciate rich natural resources, there are several countries that stand out as ideal destinations to teach English abroad. These countries not only offer rewarding teaching opportunities but also boast stunning natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems for exploration and enjoyment. One top destination for TEFL teachers who love nature is Costa Rica. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, Costa Rica provides a unique opportunity to teach English while being surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. From surfing on the Pacific coast to hiking in the cloud forests, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures in this Central American gem. Another popular choice for nature-loving TEFL teachers is New Zealand. With its...  [Read more]

To find TEFL teaching jobs in less popular destinations, you can follow these steps: Start your search by exploring online job boards and websites that specialize in advertising TEFL positions worldwide. Websites like Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment are great resources for finding teaching opportunities in less popular destinations. These platforms often have job listings for countries that may not be as commonly sought after by teachers. Research language schools and educational institutions in the specific destination you are interested in teaching. Reach out to them directly via email or phone to inquire about potential job openings. Sometimes, these establishments may not actively advertise their vacancies online, so contacting them directly can give you an advantage....  [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]

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]

Preparing for TEFL exams can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and resources, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you prepare effectively: 1. **Understand the Format**: Before you start studying, familiarize yourself with the format of the TEFL exam you will be taking. Knowing the structure of the exam will help you tailor your study plan accordingly. 2. **Gather Study Materials**: Invest in quality study materials such as textbooks, practice exams, and online resources. These materials will help you cover all the necessary topics and practice different types of questions. 3. **Create a Study Schedule**: Plan out your study schedule based on the time you have available before the exam. Break down the topics into manageable sections and...  [Read more]

Teaching English in Vietnam is a popular choice for many individuals looking to work abroad. With a growing demand for English language education, there are plenty of opportunities for qualified teachers in Vietnam. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to secure a job teaching English in Vietnam. First and foremost, it is essential to have a recognized TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. Many language schools and institutions in Vietnam require teachers to have a TEFL certificate to ensure that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English effectively. There are various options available for obtaining a TEFL certification, including online courses and in-person training programs. Once you have obtained your TEFL certification, the next step is to...  [Read more]

Finding TEFL teaching jobs in competitive markets can be challenging, but with the right approach and strategies, you can increase your chances of securing a job. Here are some tips to help you navigate the job search process effectively: 1. **Online Job Boards and Websites**: Utilize popular online job boards and websites that specialize in advertising TEFL teaching positions. Websites like Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment are great resources to find job listings in competitive markets. 2. **Recruitment Agencies**: Consider registering with TEFL recruitment agencies that can help connect you with schools and institutions in competitive markets. Agencies often have inside knowledge of job openings and can assist you in finding the right fit for your skills and experience. 3....  [Read more]

  In this video, we focus on the difference between the usage of "do" and "make". We use the verb 'do' when someone performs an action, activity or task. Some common expression with 'do' include : do a crossword, do the ironing, do your job, do the dishes, and do homework. We also use the verb 'do' when referring to things in general and to describe an action without saying exactly what the action is. In this case, 'do' is often used with the words 'something, nothing, anything, everything, for example ' I'm not doing anything today', or ' He does everything for his wife'.There are also a number of fixed expressions that always take the verb 'do', such as: do badly, do business, do a favor, do good, and do harm, just to name a few. On the other hand, we use the verb...  [Read more]

  One of the major ideas here when writing on the board, is that we need to be aware that whenever we're using the board to write down information, we should not be talking and whenever we are talking we should not be writing on the board. This will inevitably lead to what's known as dead time when nothing is being said as we're putting information on the board. This dead time is not a problem but we can actually minimize it by using a number of techniques. We could use pre-prepared material. So we put information onto large pieces of paper and then instead of writing on the board, we actually stick those materials onto the board as we go through the class. Another idea is to actually ask students to write on the board for you. Another thing is that we could actually put work up...  [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]

  This is Alexandra's TESOL review. She is from Russia and currently majoring in English education. She took the 120-hour online TEFL/TESOL course and felt like it was a great addition to her current education. While the material covered in the course wasn't entirely new to her, she was still able to learn a lot of new techniques and is happy she decided to take the course. 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 learned many...  [Read more]

  Next, a couple of issues surrounding the use of worksheets and workcards. Firstly, these types of materials can either be bought or they could be made by yourself. Very often many of the book series that we use will have workcards in their teacher resource book. Worksheets and workcards are very useful because they can act as a prompt to introduce an activity or topic. They can also be used for role plays and one of the things you need to be aware of when making worksheets and workcards yourself is that you need to make them durable. So whenever you create a workcard, if you put it on some hard backing and then put it inside some cellophane or covered plastic just to make them durable then those types of workcards and worksheets can last for years. So examples of worksheets and...  [Read more]

Yes, you can absolutely obtain a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate even if English is your second language. In fact, being a non-native English speaker can sometimes be an advantage when pursuing a TEFL certification, as you have firsthand experience in learning the language and can empathize with your future students who are also learning English as a foreign language. One of the first things to consider when pursuing a TEFL certificate as a non-native English speaker is your proficiency in the English language. Most TEFL certification programs require a certain level of English language proficiency, typically equivalent to a C1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is to ensure that you have a strong grasp of the language in...  [Read more]

  ITTT's 370-hour online Diploma in TESOL course, which comes with online tutor support, is a research based course that utilizes the internet and other resources to develop a deeper understanding of areas such as, the historical development of English language teaching, syllabus design, assessment procedures, classroom management and so on. The course will provide you with an in-depth understanding of teaching English and it will be a valuable addition to your CV. 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...  [Read more]