Tefl Classroom

Effective classroom management is crucial for creating a positive and productive learning environment in a TEFL classroom. Here are some common techniques that TEFL teachers can use to manage their classrooms effectively: Establishing clear expectations: Setting clear and consistent rules and expectations from the beginning helps students understand what is expected of them and reduces the likelihood of disruptions. Creating a positive classroom environment: Building a positive and supportive atmosphere where students feel safe and respected encourages active participation and engagement in the learning process. Using positive reinforcement: Acknowledging and praising good behavior can motivate students to continue behaving positively and can help build a strong rapport between the teacher...  [Read more]

Our in-class training at our Barcelona location in spain is led by professional teacher trainers with years of teaching experience abroad. The school has spacious classrooms and is located in a central part of Barcelona. When graduating, all trainees hold in hand an internationally recognized teaching qualification in their hands allowing them to work as English language teachers all around t  [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]

To make your TEFL classroom more interactive, there are several strategies you can implement. One effective method is to incorporate a variety of interactive activities that cater to different learning styles and preferences. For example, you can include group discussions, pair work, role plays, and games to engage students and promote active participation. These activities not only make learning more enjoyable but also help students practice their language skills in a meaningful context. Another way to enhance interactivity is to use technology in the classroom. You can utilize online resources, interactive whiteboards, educational apps, and multimedia tools to create a dynamic learning environment. By integrating technology, you can appeal to digital-native students and make the lessons...  [Read more]

  "In this video, our OTP trainee Richard conducts a classroom discussion with his students using modal verbs. 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. I'm exposed to real life classroom experience with 2 totally different demonstration. There are quite a few points to learn from the differences of the...  [Read more]

  Every language has developed its own vocabulary for talking about things that are important to that specific culture. To fully embrace a new language it is important to be exposed to as many facets of its culture as possible and as EFL teachers we have the perfect platform to do just that.  [Read more]

  When choosing a TEFL certification course one of the first decisions you need to make is whether to complete it online as a distance learning course or in-class by attending a training center. Both have their pros and cons so it is down to the individual to decide which best suits their own personal situation. So what are the main differences to consider between an online TEFL course and an in-class TEFL course? Probably the most significant difference is the inclusion of Observed Teaching Practice (OTP) in classroom based courses. Throughout the four-week course you will spend many hours practicing your teaching skills in a real classroom with genuine English language learners. These practice lessons are observed by an experienced course trainer who will provide instant...  [Read more]

  Both options offer a credible route towards TEFL certification but there are some noticeable differences. Are you able to study alone without a tutor? Are you able to attend a training center? The cost and the type of certification required in your chosen country should also be considered.  [Read more]

To enhance your TEFL classroom management skills, there are several strategies and techniques you can implement. These methods will help you create a positive and productive learning environment for your students while also maintaining control and fostering engagement. Here are some key tips to improve your TEFL classroom management skills: Establishing clear expectations from the beginning is essential in creating a well-managed classroom. Clearly communicate your rules and expectations regarding behavior, participation, and academic standards. Make sure your students understand what is expected of them and the consequences for not following the rules. Developing a positive and respectful relationship with your students is crucial for effective classroom management. Show genuine interest...  [Read more]

  This presentation is going to focus on the use of course books, materials and teaching aids. There are many materials that we can bring to our classroom that will help with the teaching of our lessons and these include, though they're not limited to, things such as the wipe board, similar to the one that we're using here, various types of visual aids, created or bought worksheets, the use of cassettes CDs and DVDs and the use of video and in these classroom materials, we can also include things such as dictionaries and course books, various types of resource books that we'll have a look at and other materials such as photo copiers, computers, OHPs. So what we'd like to do is just to take a general look at some of the issues relating to each of these types of materials. Below you...  [Read more]

  Throughout section on the teaching of productive skills and the teaching of receptive skills our activate activities will usually involve some form of game and our final consideration here will be the use of games in the classroom. We can start with a definition of what we actually mean by a game and it basically has three components. A game is an activity that has rules it should have for its purpose in the classroom a teaching point and by nature to the fact that it's a game it should also include an element of fun. So that will be our working definition for a game that we're going to use in the classroom. There are many different types of games and they range between the competitive and those will require cooperation and there are all sorts of games that involve both of these...  [Read more]

To improve your TEFL classroom management skills, you can focus on several key strategies that will help create a positive and productive learning environment for your students. First and foremost, it is essential to establish clear expectations and rules from the beginning of the course. This includes setting guidelines for behavior, participation, and respect within the classroom. By outlining these expectations early on, students will understand what is expected of them and will be more likely to follow the rules. Another important aspect of classroom management is building rapport with your students. Get to know them on a personal level, show interest in their lives and cultures, and create a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. When students feel valued and respected, they are more...  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL certification course one of the first decisions you need to make is whether to complete it online as a distance learning course or in-class by attending a training center. Both have their pros and cons so it is down to the individual to decide which best suits their own personal situation. Probably the most significant difference is the inclusion of Observed Teaching Practice (OTP) in classroom based courses. Throughout the four-week course you will spend many hours practicing your teaching skills in a real classroom with genuine English language learners. These practice lessons are observed by an experienced course trainer who will provide instant feedback and tips for improvement following each lesson. OTP allows you to hone your teaching skills and gain...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a multicultural classroom, there are several key factors to consider. First and foremost, it's essential to have a strong understanding of the diverse backgrounds and cultures of your students. This will help you tailor your teaching approach to meet the needs and preferences of each individual learner. One important aspect of preparing for a multicultural classroom is to familiarize yourself with the various learning styles and preferences that may be present among your students. Some learners may respond well to visual aids, while others may prefer auditory or kinesthetic learning activities. By incorporating a variety of teaching methods into your lessons, you can ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed. Additionally, it's crucial to...  [Read more]

Creating a supportive learning environment in your TEFL classroom is essential for fostering a positive and effective learning experience for your students. Here are some key strategies to help you achieve this goal: Establish clear expectations: Start by setting clear expectations for behavior, participation, and academic performance. Clearly communicate these expectations to your students and consistently reinforce them throughout the course. Encourage open communication: Create a safe and inclusive space where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas. Encourage open communication by actively listening to your students, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a sense of mutual respect. Promote collaboration: Encourage collaboration among your students by...  [Read more]

Using games in your TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) classroom can be an effective and engaging way to enhance language learning. Games can help students practice language skills in a fun and interactive way, promote communication and collaboration among students, and increase motivation and participation in the classroom. There are various types of games that can be used in the TEFL classroom, such as vocabulary games, grammar games, speaking games, listening games, and writing games. Here are some ideas on how to effectively incorporate games into your TEFL lessons: Vocabulary games are a great way to help students learn and practice new words and phrases. You can use games like word puzzles, word searches, flashcard games, or memory games to reinforce vocabulary. For...  [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]

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]

Teaching English in a non-traditional classroom can be a rewarding and unique experience. Whether you are teaching in a corporate setting, online, or in a community center, proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful learning environment. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for teaching English in a non-traditional classroom: Understanding your students' needs and goals is crucial when teaching English in a non-traditional setting. Conducting a needs analysis will help you tailor your lessons to meet the specific requirements of your students. Consider their language proficiency levels, learning styles, cultural background, and reasons for learning English. Developing a flexible lesson plan is essential for teaching in a non-traditional classroom. Unlike traditional...  [Read more]

  The dynamics of classroom interaction is often dictated by the arrangement of the classroom itself and the way in which the classroom is arranged could depend upon a number of factors and they might include things such as the age of the students, so for example we're unlikely to have the same arrangement for adult learners as we would have for young learners. It could also depend upon the actual physical space available. The physical space may determine how we have to arrange our classroom to maximize the opportunity for interaction and so forth. It will also depend on what material is available and by material in this case we're talking about the actual desks and chairs and so on and so forth. Perhaps the final thing we might put here is that it could also depend upon the...  [Read more]

As a seasoned TEFL instructor, incorporating advanced teaching strategies can significantly enhance your classroom instruction and student engagement. Here are some advanced TEFL teaching strategies that can help you take your teaching to the next level: 1. **Differentiated Instruction**: Tailoring your teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of your students is essential for effective learning. Use a variety of techniques such as group work, individual assignments, and multimedia resources to cater to different learning styles and abilities in your classroom. 2. **Task-Based Learning**: Encourage students to learn through real-life tasks and activities that require problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This approach fosters active participation and helps students develop...  [Read more]

Technology has revolutionized the field of TEFL, offering educators and learners a wide range of tools and resources to enhance language learning. In the modern classroom, technology plays a crucial role in providing interactive and engaging learning experiences for students of all ages and language levels. One of the key benefits of technology in TEFL is its ability to provide access to authentic language materials from around the world. With the internet, students can easily access articles, videos, podcasts, and other authentic resources that expose them to real-world language use. This exposure helps students develop their listening, reading, and comprehension skills in a way that textbooks alone cannot achieve. In addition to authentic materials, technology also offers a variety of...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in an urban environment, there are several key factors to consider. First and foremost, familiarize yourself with the cultural and linguistic diversity that may exist within urban areas. Urban environments often have a mix of different ethnicities, languages, and socio-economic backgrounds, so it's important to be sensitive to these differences and to adapt your teaching approach accordingly. In addition, urban areas may present unique challenges and opportunities for English language learners. For example, students in urban environments may have different levels of exposure to English outside of the classroom, which can impact their language proficiency and learning needs. It's important to assess the individual needs of your students and tailor your lesson...  [Read more]

  Whereas stress is typically concerned with one individual word, intonation is generally concerned with the variation in volume and pitch throughout an entire sentence. Intonation carries the message of a sentence. It's particularly important when questioning or agreeing, disagreeing and confirming statements. It's also very important when expressing emotions and feelings. The normal pattern for intonation is the rise-fall. Few examples would be ?I haven't seen him for a week,? or a simple word as ?okay?. With the falling intonation, we?re indicating that we're finished speaking. Again, ?I haven't seen him for a week? and ?okay?. A few more examples would be ?I'll see you at six then,? or a question of information ?How do you spell rough?? These are straightforward statements that...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can greatly benefit individuals looking to teach English to adults. Whether you are a seasoned teacher or new to the field, obtaining a TEFL certification can enhance your teaching skills, provide you with a deeper understanding of language learning principles, and increase your confidence in the classroom. One of the key advantages of obtaining a TEFL certification is that it equips you with the necessary knowledge and techniques to effectively teach English to adults. The certification covers a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, language assessment, and teaching methodologies tailored specifically for adult learners. By completing a TEFL course, you will be better prepared to create engaging and interactive lessons that cater to the...  [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]

  So, we'll focus first of all on a speaking skills lesson and perhaps a starting point for this would be to ask a question which is: Why do we speak to each other? The reason that it's important to ask ourselves this question is that whatever answers there are to this should be present in our lessons. So, why do we speak to each other? Well, there are a multitude of answers to that but when you boil them all down to their essence, they probably actually come down to one or two things. We communicate to each other by speaking because of either a need. We need something. We want something or a desire to achieve something. 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...  [Read more]

  Connected speech is also an important element of phonology and it's involved in joining words together in an effect to make our speech more efficient. Some might say it's a product of being lazy but nonetheless it's what we all do and we want all of our non-native speakers to speak as naturally as possible, so we have to be aware of these things. Here are a few of the more common examples. We have linking, dropping, changing and extra lettering. An example of each would be with linking, we link our words together so that they almost in effect become one word. Instead of saying ?What do you want to do,? we typically will say ?Whatdoyou want to do?? Then, we can also have dropping. Rather than pronouncing each and every consonant, we can sometimes, especially in certain accents,...  [Read more]

  The next thing we should look at is how our consonants are arranged for the top two rows we have P and F at the left side of our chart and G and J at the right side of our chart. They're arranged this way because if we analyze the way we speak we're using the front of our mouth to use these sounds as in ?p? and ?f? and I'm using my lips and my teeth to produce those sounds and as we move to the right on the chart slowly but surely we're making those sounds it towards the back of our mouth. We can use the examples of ?g?. The sound ?g? is produced further back in our mouth than ?p?. The next thing we'll notice about our chart is that some of our symbols are shaded. Notice that none of the symbols in the vowel sections are shaded but only a few are in the consonant section. The...  [Read more]

  Here we have a set of five words, which all share one sound: the ?oh? sound, as in ?go?, ?show?, ?dough?, ?note? and ?boat?. They?re five different spelling patterns to tell our students so they can identify when to make the ?oh? sound. We can have a simple letter ?o?, ?ow?, ?ough?, ?o? with the magic ?e? which turns our vowel into what we knew as long sounds and the ?oa? as in ?boat?. Now, for a non-native learner, perhaps they can handle something like this. They remember that these spelling combinations help to produce the ?oh? sound and they can go about their business looking at the words and memorizing this knowing that these spelling patterns will produce the sound ?oh?. Now that?s okay until we get to a situation where we can also have words like ?to?, ?cow? and also...  [Read more]