How Do Americans Celebrate Halloween

When researching your options for teaching English abroad, you may come across articles stating that it is difficult or even impossible for Americans to find work in Europe. However, the good news is this is simply not true, as there are plenty of great opportunities for American teachers in many countries throughout Europe. Due to the huge numbers of people learning English in Europe, there simply aren't enough teachers from within the EU to fill all the available positions. To meet this demand, language schools across the continent look towards native English speaking Americans who possess a TEFL qualification. Every year thousands of US citizens find teaching jobs in major cities such as Rome, Madrid, Berlin, Moscow, and Prague. In Western Europe there is a strong preference for...  [Read more]

  While you will find Americans teaching in large numbers across Asia and Latin America, Europe is still the number one choice for many. Although U.S citizens are not free to turn up and teach in any country they want, there are still plenty of great destinations to choose from.  [Read more]

Mexico is a hugely popular destination for teaching English abroad due to its booming job market, vibrant culture, diverse and beautiful landscapes, and the worldwide popularity of its cuisine. The country’s close ties to its neighbour the USA, also ensures Mexico has a very strong demand for the English language in every town and city, no matter how big or small. Although a teacher’s salary is much less than you would earn in the US, the low cost of living means that what you earn goes a whole lot further. Your income will vary depending on the type of job you secure and the location in which you choose to live and work. On average, you can expect to earn between $500 and $1,000 USD per month. When looking for a job, it is best to shop around to find the best deal as hourly rates can...  [Read more]

The Cultural Ambassadors Program (also known as the North American Language and Culture Assistants Program) is run by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport. Every year as many as 2,500 North Americans are placed through the scheme into elementary or secondary schools across the country to work as assistant language teachers. As Spain can be a difficult place for non-Europeans to secure an official work visa, this program provides a great opportunity for Americans and Canadians to legally live and work in one of the world's most popular teaching destinations. The program is open to American and Canadian citizens aged between 21 and 60, although the upper age limit for placement in the Madrid region is 35. If accepted, participants are assigned as assistant English...  [Read more]

When it comes to accents we all have one no matter where in the world we were brought up. Most of us are familiar with the basic differences between British and American accents, but what about accents from Australia and New Zealand, Canada and South Africa? And within each of these countries there are dozens of regional accents, just to complicate things further. So, we all have an accent, but is it a problem when teaching English as a foreign language? The first thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong accent when it comes to teaching and learning English. When teaching it is fine to speak naturally, just be sure that you always speak clearly and that all your instructions are fully understood by the whole class. Whether there is one accent that is better to teach than others...  [Read more]

  Massachusetts is not only the most populous state in the region of New England, but also an exciting vacation destination for many. “The Bay State” is bordered by the mighty Atlantic Ocean in the east and offers a wide variety of different landscapes. For example, visitors can enjoy exciting mountains, lush valleys as well as some of the finest beaches in the USA. Besides its many natural wonders, Massachusetts is also an important historic location in North America. The famous Pilgrims landed here after their long journey from England across the ocean. That’s why Massachusetts is a historic gem and witness of the colonial and revolutionary eras. Today, Massachusetts is a popular vacation destination for many Americans due to the 1,500-mile long coastline with its abundant...  [Read more]

To make your TEFL classes more project-based, you can incorporate a variety of activities and approaches that encourage students to work on longer-term tasks, collaborate with peers, and apply language skills in real-world contexts. Project-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered approach that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Here are some strategies to help you integrate PBL into your TEFL classes: 1. **Define Clear Learning Objectives**: Start by setting clear learning objectives for the project to ensure that students understand what they are expected to achieve. Clearly communicate the language skills and content knowledge they will develop through the project. 2. **Choose Engaging Topics**: Select topics that are relevant and interesting to your students...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, staying motivated is essential to ensure a successful and fulfilling teaching experience. Here are some tips to help you stay motivated in your TEFL journey: 1. **Set clear goals**: Start by setting achievable short-term and long-term goals for yourself as a teacher. This could include improving your teaching techniques, enhancing your students' language skills, or even furthering your own education in the field of TEFL. 2. **Celebrate small victories**: Teaching can be challenging, so it's important to celebrate even the smallest victories. Whether it's a student mastering a difficult grammar point or receiving positive feedback from a class observation, take the time to acknowledge and celebrate these achievements. 3. **Continuous professional development**: Stay...  [Read more]

  The state of Utah in the Western USA is filled with untouched natural scenery, red canyons, rivers and creeks, making it a great destination for outdoor activities. Long before the first European settlers reached this land, various tribes of the Ute-Aztec Native American ethnicity called it their home. Another group of Native Americans, the Navajo, settled in the region around the 18th century and they are still one of the largest Native American groups in the country. Utah is a unique state where the landscape has been strongly influenced by wind, water and time. The state has some of the best parks in the USA, including five national parks, seven national monuments, three national historic trails, two national recreation areas, and one national historic site. The Mighty 5®...  [Read more]

If you want to teach English in Europe you will find that most jobs are secured following a face to face interview. If you would like to have a teaching job organised before you leave home, a government placement program might be a good option for you. The following are the most popular programs of their kind in Europe. The TAPIF Program, short for Teaching Assistant Program in France, is a government initiative that places applicants into French state schools to work as teaching assistants. The program provides a great opportunity to live and work in a country where long-stay visas can be difficult to secure for non-EU citizens. For those who meet the necessary criteria, the TAPIF Program could be the perfect way to fulfil your dream of living and working in France. The program is...  [Read more]

Teaching English in a multicultural classroom can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you navigate this diverse learning environment effectively. First and foremost, it's important to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere in your classroom. Celebrate the diversity of your students by incorporating their cultures and backgrounds into your lessons. This can help make all students feel valued and respected. In a multicultural classroom, it's essential to use a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and language abilities. This can include visual aids, hands-on activities, group work, and technology-based resources. By providing a range of learning opportunities, you can ensure that all...  [Read more]

  Indiana is a beautiful state in the Midwestern and Great Lakes regions of the USA. It has a long history with records of Native Americans inhabiting the area going as far back as 8000 BC. Indiana is also one of eight states in the Great Lakes Region with Lake Michigan bordering the state in the northwest, while the mighty Ohio River makes up the state border in the south. Due to these natural influences, there is a lot do see and do in Indiana. On top of that, visitors can enjoy the many historic sites and attractions that can be found all over the state. Our training center is located in Indiana’s capital of Indianapolis and welcomes you to join our in-class TEFL/TESOL training program. Indiana offers so much to see and do, you will not be bored during you month-long TEFL/TESOL...  [Read more]

As it is one of the most visited countries in the world, Spain has a huge tourism industry that has a continually high demand for English language teachers. There are hundreds of privately run language schools located across the country that hire year-round, as well as government sponsored programs that place teachers into the public school system. The majority of positions can be found in large cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, although opportunities can be found in virtually every city, town, and beach resort in the country. The amount you can earn will vary considerably depending on your previous classroom experience, level of qualifications, the location you choose, and the type of employer. Salaries start at around ?700 per month, rising to ?1,800 for higher end...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can certainly work in heritage language programs, although the specific requirements and opportunities may vary depending on the program and location. In heritage language programs, the focus is often on teaching languages that are spoken by a specific cultural or ethnic group, typically within immigrant communities or among individuals with ancestral ties to a particular language or culture. Working in heritage language programs can be a rewarding experience for TEFL teachers, as they have the opportunity to help students connect with their cultural roots, maintain their linguistic heritage, and develop a strong sense of identity and belonging. These programs often serve as a vital link to the past for many individuals, helping them preserve and pass on their language and...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can play a crucial role in language preservation programs by using their expertise to support communities in maintaining and revitalizing their native languages. Language preservation programs aim to protect and promote endangered languages, often by teaching them alongside dominant languages like English. TEFL teachers can contribute by incorporating elements of the endangered language into their English lessons, creating bilingual materials, or even teaching the endangered language directly. One way TEFL teachers can work in language preservation programs is by collaborating with local communities to develop bilingual educational materials. By creating resources that incorporate both English and the endangered language, teachers can help students maintain their linguistic...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a high-poverty area, there are several key considerations and steps you can take to ensure you are effective in your role. Firstly, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific challenges that students in high-poverty areas may face. These could include limited access to resources, lack of parental support, and potential trauma or adverse experiences. Understanding these challenges will help you tailor your teaching approach to better support your students. Next, it's important to develop cultural competence and sensitivity. Students in high-poverty areas may come from diverse backgrounds, and it's essential to respect and value their experiences and perspectives. Building positive relationships with your students based on trust and respect...  [Read more]

If you plan on teaching English in Europe you might have come across something known as the Schengen Area. This area is currently comprised of 26 countries with a combined population of over 400 million people. The area was set up in 1985 with the intention of removing border controls to make moving between countries hassle free. The Schengen Area should not be confused with the European Union which is a separate institution. Before its creation you would have to show your passport at every border to receive an entry stamp, while now anyone including TEFL teachers can move freely from one country to another without any restrictions. Essentially, by entering a country that is a member of the Schengen Area you are entering the area as a whole. Regardless of which country you enter first, the...  [Read more]

Teaching English to beginners can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you effectively teach English to beginners: 1. **Start with the Basics**: When teaching beginners, it's crucial to start with the very basics of the English language. Focus on teaching commonly used vocabulary, simple grammar structures, and essential phrases that will help them communicate in everyday situations. 2. **Use Visual Aids**: Visual aids such as flashcards, pictures, and gestures can be extremely helpful when teaching beginners. These visual cues can aid in comprehension and make learning more engaging and interactive. 3. **Encourage Interaction**: Encourage your students to practice speaking English from day one. Provide opportunities for...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a rural area, there are several important steps you can take to ensure you are ready for this unique experience. First, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the local community and culture of the rural area where you will be teaching. This includes learning about the customs, traditions, and values of the people who live there. By understanding the background of your students, you will be better able to connect with them and tailor your teaching approach to their needs. Next, it is essential to research the educational resources and infrastructure available in the rural area. This may include understanding the curriculum guidelines, available teaching materials, and any technological limitations that may exist. By being prepared in advance, you can...  [Read more]

Spain is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for teaching English abroad for many different reasons, including the buoyant job market, laid-back culture, great climate, and fabulous cuisine. Jobs are available year-round in most major towns and cities, but are you eligible to join the many thousands of people teaching English across Spain right now? This is one of the most common questions asked by those who dream of living and working in Spain, and the answer is NO, you do not need a university degree to teach English in Spain. There is no legal requirement for English teachers to have a degree and demand is so high that most employers are also unconcerned about your degree status. Most employers in Spain prefer to hire native English speakers as this is what local students are...  [Read more]

  The Cultural Ambassadors Program is a government run scheme that places foreign nationals into public schools to work as teaching assistants. The program offers Americans and Canadians a fascinating opportunity to live and work in Spain with none of the hassles that come with applying and interviewing for jobs independently.  [Read more]

  In her ninth video diary instalment, Chantelle discusses unit 9 of her online TEFL course from ITTT. This unit covers lesson planning and the importance of being well prepared for your lessons. The unit discusses whether there is a need to plan lessons, how a lesson plan should be written and what should be included in a lesson plan. It also looks at ways to plan a sequence of lessons and how important it is for teachers to reflect on past lessons to help improve 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 areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly...  [Read more]

  ITTT’s Guatemala TEFL course is the perfect place to earn your teaching qualification. While studying for your TEFL certificate you can make the most of all this beautiful Central American country has to offer. Once you graduate you will be ideally placed to take advantage of the teaching positions available in Guatemala and the wider Latin American region. Guatemala is a fascinating country with so much to offer all types of traveller. Whether you are looking for adventure or are seeking to learn more about the history of the Mayan people, there’s plenty to keep you occupied when you are not busy in the classroom. You can be sure that taking your TEFL course with ITTT in Guatemala will be the experience of a lifetime. Although teaching positions can be found all over the...  [Read more]

Teaching English in a multicultural 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 diverse group of students. First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the cultural backgrounds of your students. This will help you understand their perspectives, values, and communication styles, allowing you to tailor your teaching approach to better suit their needs. Take the time to research common cultural practices, taboos, and communication norms to avoid any misunderstandings or unintentional offense. Additionally, adapt your teaching materials and activities to reflect the diversity of...  [Read more]

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]

A TEFL certificate is a valuable credential that can greatly benefit individuals looking to teach English to multicultural classrooms. With the increasing demand for English language skills worldwide, having a TEFL certificate can open up numerous opportunities for teaching English as a foreign language. One of the key advantages of obtaining a TEFL certificate is that it equips you with essential teaching skills and strategies specifically designed for teaching English to non-native speakers. The training provided in a TEFL program covers a wide range of topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language assessment, and teaching methodologies that are effective in diverse classroom settings. In multicultural classrooms where students come from different linguistic and...  [Read more]

Ethical considerations play a crucial role in the field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). Educators must be mindful of various ethical principles to ensure a positive and respectful learning environment for their students. Here are some key ethical considerations in TEFL: 1. **Cultural Sensitivity**: One of the most important ethical considerations in TEFL is being culturally sensitive. Teachers should respect and celebrate the diverse backgrounds and cultures of their students. Avoiding stereotypes and promoting cultural awareness can help create an inclusive classroom environment. 2. **Respect for Students**: Teachers in TEFL must treat their students with respect and dignity. This includes listening to their ideas, valuing their contributions, and providing constructive...  [Read more]

peru is a wonderful location to start your TEFL/TESOL career. There is a high demand for qualified language teachers in the whole South American region and jobs are abundant. During your four-week TEFL/TESOL course in Cusco, you will observe several lessons presented by our professional teacher trainers before creating and presenting you own English lessons. Our training center has spacious classrooms and is a full-functioning English school with local EFL learners.   [Read more]

Teaching English in an underfunded school can present unique challenges, but with proper preparation and a positive attitude, you can still make a significant impact on your students' language learning journey. Here are some tips to help you prepare for teaching English in an underfunded school: 1. **Understand the Challenges**: Before you begin, take the time to understand the specific challenges that come with teaching in an underfunded school. This may include limited resources, large class sizes, and students with varying levels of proficiency. 2. **Create a Plan**: Develop a flexible lesson plan that takes into account the limitations of the school's resources. Focus on activities that require minimal materials and can be adapted to different learning levels. 3. **Utilize...  [Read more]

For EU citizens looking to teach English in Germany it is relatively straightforward as they are able to work freely without a visa, while others such as Australians, New Zealanders, and Canadians can apply for a working holiday visa. However, for Americans and other non-EU citizens, there are fewer options when looking to live and work in the country. That being said, if you are patient it is definitely possible to obtain a work visa that allows you to fulfill your dream of teaching English in Germany. The application process can take up to two months and must be done from within Germany, so most teachers enter the country on a tourist visa. As the process is quite slow you will need to be able to support yourself financially while you wait for your application to be approved. It will...  [Read more]