Tesol Teaching

  Are you unsure whether to take a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification course? The choices for certification are abundant when it comes to teaching English professionally. Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA.  [Read more]

Asia and Latin America are two of the most popular regions for teaching English abroad. Both have a strong demand for English language instruction, and there are always plenty of employers ready to take on experienced and newly qualified teachers in a wide variety of countries. If you are undecided on which destination would suit you best, take a look at the following points as they might help you to make an informed choice. In general, most people who head to Latin America will find that they can live comfortably on their earnings, but are unlikely to save much (if anything at all) of their monthly salary. Paying rent and other bills, socializing, and exploring the region should be affordable for most, but if you have debts to pay off or need to save to fund further travel, it may not...  [Read more]

Every year, thousands of new and experienced teachers head to Europe looking for adventure while working as an English language teacher. A large number of these will arrive in the usual hotspots across Italy and Spain where the competition for jobs can be very high. If you are looking for something a little different that is slightly off the beaten path, then the Central European Teaching Program (CETP) may be worth a look. The CETP is a long running program that places applicants into schools in Hungary to work as English language teachers. The CETP is open to native English speakers from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., or any other EU country. As the scheme has no official upper age limit it is a particularly good option for older teachers who might find it difficult to secure jobs in...  [Read more]

  Our goal at ITTT is to not just sell TEFL training courses, but to offer a clear path through the entire process. At the start of the process we are on hand to offer advice and guidance to ensure you choose the right course to suit your future plans and we can also provide tips on how to plan your studies. Once you start your studies we have the option of an online tutor to guide you every step of the way through your chosen certification course. Our professional teacher trainers will be available to answer all your questions and to point you in the right direction at any stage of your studies. Once you have completed the course and are officially TEFL certified, the next step will probably be to start looking for your dream job, either at home or overseas. At ITTT our help...  [Read more]

  The in-class TEFL course has many benefits and the most important is probably the real life teaching practice that is a large part of the overall course schedule. During the in-class course you will have many opportunities to practice the skills that you are taught in the input sessions by teaching actual lessons of your own with individual students or groups of genuine English language learners. There is no better preparation for a teaching career than having multiple practice sessions in a real classroom under the guidance of a professional teacher trainer. Before you set foot in the classroom for your practice lessons you will undertake extensive lesson planning with the help of your trainer. Once the lesson is complete you will also receive a thorough debrief where the trainer...  [Read more]

  TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. These descriptions are generally used interchangeably, however, TESOL is more common in the USA and TEFL is more common in the UK.  [Read more]

  Which is the best course for me? A typical question asked by prospective trainees. It is not always an easy question to answer as it really depends on one's background, financial situation and time constraints. Where a person wants to teach can also be a factor in the course you select. For example in some regions the 120 hour online course is the basic requirement by employers but in other regions the 4 week in-class course is basic requirement. Contact us if you need assistance in deciding the right course for you. We will be happy to provide you with the relevant information you need to meet your particular needs and requirements. Go to our web site or follow the link above. Are you ready to live and teach abroad? Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding...  [Read more]

  ITTT's in-class four week TEFL certification course can be studied at one of our international locations. This intensive course covers the principals, theories and methodologies of TEFL and is given face to face in one of our training centers. On this course you are given the opportunity to teach local students thus gaining practical experience teaching English in a supervised environment. All teaching sessions are observed by qualified trainers who will provide you with valuable, constructive feed back after each of your lessons. Our combined course offers the main benefits of both the online course and the in-class course. The online component covers most of what is delivered face to face on the in-class course. Once you complete the online course you can attend one of our...  [Read more]

  Both the 120 hour TEFL/TESOL online course and the four week TEFL/TESOL in-class course cover the same academic content, i.e. grammar, phonology, teaching theories and methodologies. The difference between the two courses is the actual teaching practice component in the in- class course. During the in-class course trainees are given the opportunity to complete a number of observed teaching practice sessions. By having this practical teaching experience you are improving your job prospects. 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...  [Read more]

  When conducting online research for teaching English abroad you will quickly come across the acronyms TEFL, TESOL and CELTA. Essentially, they represent the basic qualifications that many international employers look for when hiring English language teachers to work in schools or language academies.  [Read more]

Some people who head overseas to teach English grow to love the lifestyle so much that they never return to work in their home country. However, for the majority, the move back home will come at some stage, whether after a single year or much longer. For some it can be a difficult experience as you are no longer the person you were when you first left home. Everything can feel different, from the everyday language to the time zone, from the climate to the cuisine. Reverse culture shock can be genuinely unsettling. One way you can combat this, and continue the international focus of your new found way of life, is to find a job that allows you to use the new skills and knowledge that your time abroad has given you. One obvious step for many teachers is to simply continue working as an...  [Read more]

While no teaching job is ever likely to be seen as easy, teaching English as a foreign language promises a rich life full of travel, excitement, and job satisfaction. However, if you want everything to go as smoothly as possible, there are a few things you need to think about before jumping on a plane to distant shores. If you want to start your teaching career in a positive fashion it is important to understand the TEFL job market and to head to where the demand is especially high. As a newly-qualified teacher you are unlikely to have the luxury of picking and choosing exactly where you want to live and work as many of the most sought after jobs in the most popular teaching locations will often be taken by teachers with previous classroom experience. Many first-time teachers look...  [Read more]

If you want to meet the criteria laid out for most online or overseas TEFL jobs, then you will need to complete a standard 120-hour TEFL certification course as a minimum. Anyone who dreams of earning a higher salary or applying for management level positions will typically need an advanced qualification such as diploma. However, teachers who want to get to the very top of the EFL tree will probably need to think about completing a Bachelor's Degree in TESOL. ITTT does not operate its own degree course, but we are able to recommend a good option. The Bachelor of Education in TESOL (B.Ed TESOL) from the Paris College of International Education offers a very convenient and affordable way to gain a high-end, internationally recognized teaching qualification. This is a 120-credit degree...  [Read more]

The age, background, and motivation of the students in your ESL classroom will vary greatly depending on where you are teaching and the school or institute you work for. You could have a class full of university students, hotel workers or even high flying business executives. Alternatively, you might work in a government school teaching a class of children aged anywhere from five to sixteen. Each of these groups has its own characteristics, and different teachers have their own preferences. Just remember that by completing a reputable TEFL certification course before you head off abroad, you will learn all the skills required to deliver effective and enjoyable lessons to almost any group of learners. A large percentage of teachers working in ESL classrooms overseas will find their...  [Read more]

The market for ESL teaching books is very large and all the major publishers have some form of involvement in the production and selling of these resources. There are many different types of books and resources that are used in ESL teaching and we will consider three main categories. 1) Book series 2) General teaching theory books 3) Activity resources There are a number of well known book series. These are specifically written for the ESL teaching market and are generally set at the five levels most often taught. These levels are Starter or Beginner, Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Upper-Intermediate. A typical book series at each level will contain three books. These are the teacher book, student book and resources book (or similar names). The teacher book gives an...  [Read more]

If you do not want to be tied to an individual English teaching platform and would prefer to be your own boss, you can potentially set up your own online teaching business. There are many different ways to set up your own online teaching service, although it obviously helps if you have some previous experience in the field of online language teaching. Former ITTT alumna Bri did just that and shared her story and top tips with ITTT on our TEFL blog: How To Start Your Own ESL Teaching Service  [Read more]

In the run up to your departure overseas to teach English there will inevitably be plenty of things to organise. You will probably have one or two leaving parties to attend and you might have to clear out your old apartment and office space. Even if you only have to pack a bag in preparation for your trip, you will still need to consider exactly what you will and won’t need to take with you. Although mobile phones now have improved cameras built in, taking a separate, high-quality camera is certainly recommended. Mobile phones are only as good as the battery that runs them and these can be short lived when using the camera extensively. Bear in mind that many of the places you might visit could be lacking in charging points and you do not want your phone to die on you while you visit the...  [Read more]

Many TEFL qualified teachers choose to teach English online as the flexibility and convenience of working from home means you can fit it around all your other personal commitments. However, when applying for jobs with online teaching platforms you might be expected to provide your potential employers with a demo video. This can be in the form of an introduction to yourself and your teaching ethos or it can be an actual demo lesson where you need to showcase your teaching skills and personality. Some companies will use this purely as part of the interview process, while in many cases the video will be available to potential students who can watch it to see if they like your approach to teaching English. When teaching online we are forced to rely on facial expressions, body language, hand...  [Read more]

Homesickness can be a common experience for those teaching English abroad, especially if it is your first time living in a foreign country. It is essential to acknowledge these feelings and take proactive steps to manage them effectively. Here are some strategies to help you deal with homesickness while teaching abroad: 1. Stay Connected with Loved Ones: Maintaining regular contact with family and friends back home can provide a sense of comfort and connection. Schedule video calls, send messages, or write emails to stay in touch and share your experiences with them. 2. Establish a Routine: Creating a daily routine can help you feel more grounded and settled in your new environment. Plan your lessons, explore the local area, and engage in activities that bring you joy and a sense of...  [Read more]

When it comes to teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), having access to quality resources can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of your lessons. There is a wide range of resources available, both online and offline, that can help TEFL teachers to engage their students and enhance their learning experience. One of the most popular online resources for TEFL teachers is the British Council's LearnEnglish website. This site offers a wealth of free resources, including lesson plans, activities, games, and worksheets for teaching English to learners of all levels. The site also provides tips and advice for TEFL teachers, as well as links to other useful resources. Another valuable online resource for TEFL teachers is the website of the International Association of...  [Read more]

To enhance your TEFL teaching experience, there are several strategies you can implement that will not only benefit your students but also help you grow as a teacher. First and foremost, it's crucial to continue developing your own language skills. This can be done through regular practice, engaging with authentic materials like books, movies, and podcasts, and even taking language courses yourself. The more confident and proficient you are in the language you are teaching, the more effective you will be as a teacher. Another important aspect of enhancing your TEFL teaching experience is to stay updated on the latest teaching methodologies and approaches. Attend workshops, conferences, and webinars to learn about new techniques and technologies that can make your lessons more engaging and...  [Read more]

To apply for TEFL teaching jobs, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success. Firstly, it is important to ensure that you meet the minimum requirements for the position you are applying for. Most teaching jobs require a bachelor's degree, although some may accept a TEFL certification in lieu of a degree. Additionally, having a TEFL certification is highly recommended as it demonstrates your competency in teaching English as a foreign language. Once you have the necessary qualifications, the next step is to create a professional resume and cover letter. Your resume should highlight any relevant teaching experience you have, as well as any TEFL certifications you hold. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should...  [Read more]

To teach English in Germany, there are several requirements that you need to fulfill. First and foremost, you typically need to have a Bachelor's degree in English or a related field. This degree should ideally include coursework in education or teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). Some schools may also require a TEFL certification, such as CELTA or TESOL, which provide training specifically for teaching English to non-native speakers. In addition to educational qualifications, many schools in Germany also require teachers to have some teaching experience. This can vary depending on the institution and the level of students you will be teaching. Some schools may require a minimum of one year of teaching experience, while others may prefer candidates with more extensive...  [Read more]

When creating a TEFL teaching strategy, it is important to consider various factors that will contribute to the effectiveness of your lessons. Your strategy should encompass a range of teaching methods, activities, and resources to cater to the diverse needs of your students. Here are some key elements to include in your TEFL teaching strategy: First and foremost, it is essential to establish clear learning objectives for each lesson. These objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By clearly defining what you want your students to achieve by the end of the lesson, you can better structure your teaching approach. Incorporate a variety of teaching methods to keep your lessons engaging and interactive. This can include a combination of...  [Read more]

In order to teach English in Norway, there are several requirements that you need to meet. First and foremost, you must be a native English speaker or demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the English language. This is essential as you will be teaching English as a foreign language to students who are looking to improve their language skills. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree is typically a requirement for teaching English in Norway. While it is not always mandatory for the degree to be in English or education, having a degree in one of these fields can be beneficial and increase your chances of finding a teaching position. Another important requirement is obtaining a teaching certification or qualification. This can vary depending on the institution or school where you wish...  [Read more]

To enhance your TEFL teaching resources, you can consider a variety of strategies that can help make your lessons more engaging, effective, and enjoyable for your students. Here are some tips to help you improve your TEFL teaching resources: 1. **Incorporate Multimedia**: Utilize a variety of multimedia resources such as videos, podcasts, interactive games, and online platforms to make your lessons more dynamic and engaging for your students. These resources can help cater to different learning styles and keep your students motivated and interested in the lesson. 2. **Use Authentic Materials**: Incorporate authentic materials such as newspaper articles, songs, movie clips, and real-life scenarios to provide your students with exposure to natural language use. Authentic materials can help...  [Read more]

When creating TEFL teaching materials, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure they are effective and engaging for your students. Here are some key components to include in your TEFL teaching materials: 1. **Language Skills Practice**: Include activities that focus on developing the four essential language skills - reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Incorporate a variety of exercises that cater to different learning styles and abilities. 2. **Grammar and Vocabulary**: Integrate grammar explanations and exercises that are clear and concise. Provide opportunities for students to practice using new vocabulary in context to enhance retention and understanding. 3. **Cultural Content**: Incorporate materials that expose students to the cultural aspects of the...  [Read more]

Teaching English in Vietnam is a popular choice for many expats due to the high demand for English language teachers in the country. To teach English in Vietnam, there are several requirements that you must meet: 1. **Bachelor's Degree**: One of the primary requirements for teaching English in Vietnam is having a bachelor's degree in any field. This is a standard requirement for obtaining a work permit in the country. 2. **TEFL Certification**: While not always mandatory, having a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification can significantly improve your job prospects and earning potential in Vietnam. Many language schools and employers prefer candidates with a TEFL certification as it demonstrates your knowledge and skills in teaching English to non-native speakers. 3....  [Read more]

To improve your TEFL teaching skills, there are several strategies and techniques you can implement. Firstly, it's essential to continue your professional development by attending workshops, conferences, and training courses specifically designed for TEFL teachers. These opportunities can provide you with new teaching methods, resources, and insights into the latest trends in the field. Another effective way to enhance your skills is to seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or even your students. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and build on your strengths as a teacher. Additionally, observing other experienced TEFL teachers in action can offer valuable insights and inspiration for your own teaching practice. Incorporating technology into your teaching...  [Read more]

Teaching English online offers a wide range of benefits for both teachers and students. From flexibility to accessibility, here are some of the advantages of teaching English online: Flexibility is one of the key benefits of teaching English online. As an online English teacher, you have the freedom to set your own schedule and work from anywhere in the world. This flexibility allows you to balance work with other commitments, such as family, travel, or further studies. Another benefit of teaching English online is the accessibility it provides to students. Online English classes eliminate the barriers of physical location, making it possible for students from all over the world to access high-quality English language education. This opens up a wider pool of students for teachers to work...  [Read more]