How To Learn About Different Cultures

Adapting your TEFL teaching style to different cultures is crucial for creating an inclusive and effective learning environment. Here are some key strategies to help you navigate cultural differences and tailor your approach accordingly. Before diving into specific teaching techniques, it's essential to educate yourself about the cultural norms, values, communication styles, and educational expectations of the country or region where you will be teaching. This cultural awareness will help you avoid misunderstandings and adapt your teaching style appropriately. Flexibility is key when teaching English as a foreign language in diverse cultural settings. Be open to new ways of learning and communicating, and be willing to adjust your lesson plans and teaching methods based on the needs and...  [Read more]

Put simply, language is a verbal expression of culture which means that culture clearly has to be seen as an important part of language learning. Although it is important to learn the vocabulary and grammar of English during lessons, to truly grasp what the language means to native speakers it is vital that EFL students learn as much as possible about the culture of English speaking nations. The good news is that students generally love learning about cultural issues, whether it is music, films, books, and TV, or other things such as food or fashion. So, how can we incorporate culture into our EFL lessons to make them interesting and productive? Authentic materials can be anything that native English speakers might use that can be adapted for use in an EFL classroom. This type of material...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher looking for diverse cultural experiences, there are several countries around the world that offer unique opportunities to immerse yourself in different cultures while teaching English. Here are some of the best countries for TEFL teachers seeking a rich cultural experience: **1. Thailand:** Thailand is a popular destination for TEFL teachers due to its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes. You can explore bustling markets, visit ancient temples, and relax on beautiful beaches during your time off. Teaching opportunities are abundant, especially in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. **2. South Korea:** South Korea is known for its high demand for English teachers and offers a fascinating blend of traditional and modern culture. You can experience...  [Read more]

Living in a non-English speaking country can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its challenges. Here are some tips on how to prepare for living in a non-English speaking country: First and foremost, it's essential to have a basic understanding of the local language. Even if it's just a few key phrases, knowing how to greet people, ask for directions, or order food can go a long way in helping you navigate your new environment. Consider taking a language course before you move or using language learning apps to familiarize yourself with the language. Research the culture and customs of the country you will be living in. Understanding the social norms, traditions, and etiquette can help you avoid cultural misunderstandings and make a good impression on the...  [Read more]

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

  Before we go into looking at the actual receptive skills lesson, if we were thinking about what potential problems there could be in these lessons. So, what things could go wrong in a reading lesson? Well, firstly the students when they are reading in a language that is not their native language, they tend to read every word as a separate piece and by reading word to word it?s very difficult to get an overall impression of what that particular text is saying. Secondly, the sentence length in a lot of articles that we will get will be very long and many of our students will not be used to that structure of language. So, here it's important to have a think about the way in which the text has actually been written and will it be fairly easy to read. The final thing is the actual...  [Read more]

If you are considering teaching English in Southern Europe, there are several steps you can take to secure a job in this region. Southern Europe offers a rich cultural experience coupled with a high demand for English teachers, making it an attractive destination for many. Here are some tips to help you land a job teaching English in Southern Europe: 1. **Qualifications and Requirements**: Most schools in Southern Europe require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Some schools may also prefer candidates with teaching experience or a specific teaching qualification like a CELTA or DELTA. 2. **Research and Choose a Destination**: Southern Europe comprises countries like Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, and others. Each...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main challenges is the language barrier. Many of your students may have limited proficiency in English, which can make communication difficult. This can be frustrating for both you and your students, as it may impede the learning process. Another challenge is adapting to a new culture. Teaching English abroad often means immersing yourself in a new and unfamiliar culture. This can be both exciting and overwhelming, as you navigate different customs, traditions, and social norms. It's important to approach this challenge with an open mind and a willingness to learn from your surroundings. Additionally, teaching English abroad may require you to adjust your teaching style to...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, you may wonder if you can teach English in countries with different dialects. The short answer is yes, you can teach English in countries with different dialects. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges and differences that may arise when teaching English in such countries. One of the key challenges when teaching English in countries with different dialects is the variation in vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. Different dialects can have unique words, expressions, and accents that may differ from the standard English that you are teaching. This can sometimes lead to confusion for students who are trying to learn English as a second language. To address this challenge, it is important to be flexible and open-minded when teaching English in countries...  [Read more]

  This video is a sample EFL lesson in a real-life classroom setting abroad. After the students have completed a worksheet about modal verbs in the first part of the study phase of this lesson, the teacher starts the second part of the study phase, which is a feedback session. The teacher clearly writes all the correct answers on the board after asking individual students what answers they have written down. 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]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding profession that offers numerous benefits for both teachers and students. One of the most rewarding aspects of TEFL teaching is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students. As a TEFL teacher, you have the chance to help students improve their language skills, gain confidence in their abilities, and achieve their academic and career goals. This sense of fulfillment that comes from seeing your students progress and succeed is incredibly gratifying. Another rewarding aspect of TEFL teaching is the cultural exchange that takes place in the classroom. TEFL teachers often work with students from diverse backgrounds and countries, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures,...  [Read more]

  In this lesson Iban teaches the meanings and differences of 'I wish' and 'if only'. He starts the lesson with a warm up activity before covering the lesson point. He ends the lesson with activities to give the students practice using the language point he has taught. 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 contained information about the qualities of a good teacher and good student.It discussed the roles of the teacher and the different...  [Read more]

Within the world of English language teaching there are many acronyms used to describe what type of teaching is involved in any particular scenario. EFL is one of the more common ones you will come across and it stands for English as a Foreign Language. You will find EFL is most commonly used when describing the teaching or learning of English in a non-English speaking country, such as Spain, Japan, or Mexico. It is very common for either of these acronyms to be used when talking about any situation where a student is learning English, however, there is a technical difference between the two. As previously mentioned, EFL is when the student is learning English in a non-English speaking environment, for example, a Japanese student learning English in Tokyo. In this scenario there is often...  [Read more]

Teaching English in developing countries can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for both the teacher and the local community. There are numerous benefits to consider when deciding to teach English in these regions. Firstly, by teaching English in a developing country, you are contributing to the socio-economic development of the community. English is often seen as the language of opportunity and can open doors to higher education, better job prospects, and increased earning potential for local residents. By equipping them with English language skills, you are empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and improve their quality of life. Additionally, teaching English in developing countries can help bridge cultural divides and foster greater understanding between people from...  [Read more]

When it comes to TEFL teachers who enjoy cultural diversity, there are several countries that stand out as ideal destinations. One of the top choices is Thailand. Thailand is a vibrant and culturally rich country with a high demand for English teachers. The country offers a mix of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities, making it a fascinating place to live and work. TEFL teachers in Thailand can immerse themselves in the local way of life, explore ancient temples, and enjoy delicious Thai cuisine. Another great option for TEFL teachers seeking cultural diversity is Spain. Spain is known for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and diverse regions. TEFL teachers in Spain can experience the unique traditions of each region, from the flamenco dancing in Andalusia to the pintxos (small...  [Read more]

Yes. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is that it can provide a great environment for learning a foreign language. It is no secret that being fully immersed in a different culture, where you are constantly surrounded by a new language, is the most effective way to quickly develop your understanding. Throughout your time living and working as an English teacher abroad, you will inevitably have endless opportunities to practice your language skills. As well as using the language as you go about your daily life, there is also a good chance that you will have access to local language courses that are far cheaper than those available in your home country. Another possibility is the network of friends that you will likely make among the local citizens. Often people are more...  [Read more]

  Peter took the 120-hour online TEFL course with ITTT. In this TEFL review, Peter mentions how he found the course to be well designed and well thought out. One thing Peter discusses is how earning a TEFL certificate and teaching English abroad is a great way to learn about new cultures and share about your own country with people all over the world. Peter would like to continue studying with ITTT and the many different courses that are available. 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...  [Read more]

As an expert in TEFL, I can assure you that obtaining a TEFL certification can offer a multitude of benefits for personal development. Not only does it provide valuable skills for teaching English as a foreign language, but it also offers individuals the opportunity to grow and expand their horizons in various ways. One significant benefit of getting TEFL certification for personal development is the enhancement of communication skills. Through TEFL training, individuals learn how to effectively communicate with non-native English speakers, which can also improve their communication skills in their native language. This improved ability to convey ideas and information clearly can be beneficial not only in a teaching context but also in various personal and professional settings. Moreover,...  [Read more]

When considering the best countries for TEFL teachers who enjoy nature and wildlife, several destinations stand out for their natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. One popular choice is Costa Rica, known for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and commitment to conservation. Teaching English in Costa Rica offers opportunities to explore national parks, spot colorful birds and monkeys, and immerse oneself in the country's eco-friendly culture. Another top destination is Thailand, with its stunning beaches, tropical jungles, and vibrant marine life. TEFL teachers in Thailand can enjoy weekends snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking to waterfalls, or visiting elephant sanctuaries. The country's warm climate and welcoming locals make it a popular choice for nature lovers looking to...  [Read more]

It’s no secret that Vietnam’s economy has boomed in recent years. Foreign investment has flooded the economy and tourism has increased dramatically. Because of this big increase in foreign involvement, the demand for TEFL Jobs in Vietnam has similarly increased. It’s easy to find well paying jobs in Ho Chi Minh City (previously Saigon), a burgeoning business center, the port city of Ga Nang and in Hanoi, the cultural capital. English teachers with TEFL qualifications will find it relatively easy to secure a desirable English teaching position in this gorgeous country. Salaries are quite high here, relative to the cost of living. If you are interested in working outside of the cities, having a more rural and culturally traditional experience, you may find it necessary to take a...  [Read more]

  Expand Your Options: More and more employers now require English teachers to have a minimum 120 - hour TEFL certificate. Earning a TEFL certificate shows commitment and professionalism. Be Prepared: In-class and combined TEFL courses give you the practical experience you need to take the sweat out of your first day. Quality online courses will give you a thorough understanding of teaching theory. Know Your Students: You will learn about different types of learners, their reasons for learning and their attitudes towards it. You will cover young learners, adult learners, business classes, one-on-one lessons and large groups. Know Your Subject: A good TEFL course will give you a solid grounding in the basics of the English language. You will learn how It works and how you can...  [Read more]

Many opportunities exist for TEFL jobs in Korea. It is also one of the more popular choices of destinations to teach English because it is one of the highest paid. A TEFL teacher willing to work overtime can earn $6000 US per month, and because the cost of living in this country is not that high, savings can be considerable. TEFL jobs are available in state universities and private language schools (hagwons). There are thousands of hagwons throughout the country, and a large proportion of teachers find work at one of these in Seoul or Busan. But there are also lots of good employment opportunities in towns and smaller cities as well. As long as you have a university degree, a well recognized TEFL certificate and you come from UK, Ireland, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada or South...  [Read more]

  This video is part of our series on the past tenses in English. We start off the series with the past simple tense. This tense is used to express completed actions in the past. In this video, we focus on the structure of the past simple. 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 unit we look at different ways of evaluating students levels and progress, as well as some of the common external exams that you may need to prepare your student for. I...  [Read more]

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

  In this ITTT TESOL review video Stratton talks about his TEFL experience in Phuket, Thailand. He talks about some of the course content including grammar, phonology and Thai culture and traditions. He also talks about the many advantages of doing the course, meeting new people and experiencing new adventures. 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 had not realised that the present tense was so complicated. Rather, I should say that I did not know...  [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]

Yes, TEFL teachers can certainly work in international volunteer programs. These programs provide opportunities for individuals to teach English in various countries around the world, particularly in communities where English language skills are limited. Volunteering as a TEFL teacher can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to make a positive impact on the lives of others while gaining valuable teaching experience and cultural insights. One of the key benefits of working as a TEFL teacher in international volunteer programs is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and community. By living and working in a foreign country, you can develop a deeper understanding of the local customs, traditions, and way of life. This cultural exchange is not only enriching for you...  [Read more]

  While the Present Tenses are each covered individually in other ITTT videos this particular video reviews the four Present Tenses together. Looking at the tenses together helps to clarify and compare the different usages and structures. The video also highlights some of the problems that students may experience when learning and using the Present tenses. For example, in the Present Simple the use of the third person singular and the formation of the question form -- these can be problematic for students. In the Present Perfect, the Past Participle and irregular verbs can often be confusing for students. In the Present Perfect Continuous, the use of non-action verbs needs clarification. A TEFL certification entitles you to unlock the door to any one of a number of TEFL jobs...  [Read more]

A TEFL certification is specifically designed to qualify individuals to teach English as a foreign language. While the skills and knowledge gained from a TEFL course can be valuable in a variety of professions, it may not directly lead to a job in a completely different industry. However, there are transferable skills that can be acquired through a TEFL certification that may be applicable to other fields. One of the key benefits of obtaining a TEFL certification is the development of strong communication skills. As a language teacher, you will learn how to effectively convey information, provide feedback, and engage with students from diverse backgrounds. These communication skills are highly sought after in many industries, such as customer service, sales, and marketing. Additionally, a...  [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]