What Is Communicative Language

  So let's take an example of what those drills might involve. So here is an example of a repetition drill. I will model the language and then my class will repeat after me. So "This is a cup." "Spoon" ? "This is a spoon." "Knife" - "his is a knife." Thank you. The reason that it's called or also called the army method is that it was the method adopted by the United States military who had personnel stationed around the world at the end of Second World War and they realized that they needed those personnel to pick up the language very quickly and one of the positive things about this particular methodology is that you do very quickly learn vocabulary. Another positive thing about it is that you quickly learn the correct pronunciation of that vocabulary. However, there are some...  [Read more]

  In this TEFL training video we look at one of three teaching ideas for the present continuous tense. English grammar lessons like this are taught on a regular basis and ITTT's TEFL training courses can show you how to use these activities to your advantage in the classroom. 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. The range of expression is greatly growing by this point in the class. This chapter emphasized the kind of sentence blueprints that would...  [Read more]

The simple answer is no, you do not need to have any knowledge or experience of languages other than English to take a TEFL course or to become an EFL teacher. The ability to speak other languages is not required as the vast majority of TEFL classrooms around the world rely on the communicative approach to English teaching that specifies that English is the only language used in the classroom. In multilingual classrooms where the students could have a dozen or more different first languages, being able to communicate in one or two of them would obviously be of no particular advantage. In monolingual classrooms you may also find that students are more inclined to revert to their mother tongue during the lesson if they are aware that the teacher can understand what is being said....  [Read more]

Improving English listening skills is crucial for language learners to enhance their overall communication abilities. There are several effective methods and strategies that TEFL teachers can employ to help students develop their listening skills. Firstly, it is essential to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable and motivated to listen actively. Using a variety of authentic audio materials such as podcasts, songs, news clips, and videos can make the learning process more interesting and relevant for students. These materials expose students to different accents, speech patterns, and vocabulary, helping them improve their listening comprehension skills. Incorporating listening activities that focus on specific listening sub-skills such as...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in an international school, there are several key steps you can take to ensure you are ready for this rewarding and challenging experience. First and foremost, it's essential to have a strong grasp of the English language yourself. This means having a deep understanding of grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and sentence structure. If English is not your first language, consider taking language courses or working with a tutor to improve your skills. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is highly recommended. These certifications provide you with the necessary training and credentials to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. Many...  [Read more]

  There are some other classroom management issues that we need to consider and they may include issues such as writing on the board, giving students individual attention, the use of teacher talk time, the way in which we should give instructions to our students, the building and maintaining of rapport with our students, and finally the one that perhaps most new teachers particularly spend a lot of time worrying and thinking about, is the issue of classroom discipline. So what we'd like to do is to take each of these in turn and look at some of the major issues surrounding these classroom management issues. 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...  [Read more]

  Mary is an assistant English language teacher in Tokyo, Japan, and she recently completed the 120-hour online TEFL/TESOL course with ITTT. She enjoyed the course a lot and had fun completing all 20 units. In her TEFL review, she also says that she enjoyed the flexibility the course gave her to complete the course in her leisure time. She recommends the course to anyone interested in teaching English and finds the course to be great value for money. 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]

  Jessica from Holland completed the 120-hour TESOL course with tutor support and videos. Jessica tells us in this TESOL review that she found the course to be very useful and felt that she learned a lot from taking it. Not only does the course come with useful teaching tips, graduates also receive lifetime employment support to help with finding a job on completing the course. Jessica recommends the course for anyone wanting to start a career in English language teaching. 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...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) requires creativity and adaptability to engage students effectively. Innovative teaching methods can enhance the learning experience and make lessons more engaging and memorable for students. Here are some innovative TEFL teaching methods to consider: 1. Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): CLT focuses on real-life communication rather than rote memorization. It encourages students to interact in English through group activities, role plays, and discussions. This method helps students develop their speaking and listening skills in a practical context. 2. Task-Based Learning: Task-based learning involves giving students tasks or challenges to complete using English. This approach promotes collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking...  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL course that fits your teaching style and career goals, there are several factors to consider. The first step is to assess your teaching style and preferences. Are you more comfortable with a traditional classroom setting or do you prefer a more interactive and communicative approach? Do you enjoy working with specific age groups or do you have a preference for teaching certain skills such as grammar or conversation? Once you have a clear understanding of your teaching style, you can start researching TEFL courses that align with your preferences. Look for courses that offer specialized training in areas that interest you, such as teaching young learners, business English, or exam preparation. Consider the course format as well - some courses are offered online, while...  [Read more]

When developing your TEFL teaching methodology, there are several key components that you should consider including to ensure effective and engaging English language instruction. A well-rounded methodology will incorporate a variety of approaches and techniques to cater to the diverse needs and learning styles of your students. First and foremost, it is important to establish clear learning objectives for each lesson or course. These objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), guiding both your lesson planning and assessment strategies. By clearly outlining what you want your students to achieve, you can design activities and tasks that support their language development in a structured and purposeful manner. Incorporating a communicative...  [Read more]

To improve your TEFL teaching skills, there are several key areas you can focus on. First and foremost, gaining a deeper understanding of English grammar and syntax is crucial. This will enable you to explain language rules more effectively to your students and help them grasp the nuances of the language. Secondly, developing strong classroom management techniques is essential for creating a positive and productive learning environment. This includes setting clear expectations, providing engaging activities, and managing student behavior effectively. Furthermore, enhancing your knowledge of teaching methodologies and approaches will allow you to adapt your lessons to meet the diverse needs of your students. Familiarize yourself with communicative language teaching, task-based learning, and...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are both certificates that qualify individuals to teach English as a foreign language, but they have some key differences. Firstly, TEFL is a broader term that encompasses a range of courses and certifications that provide training in teaching English to non-native speakers. TEFL courses vary in length, content, and accreditation. On the other hand, CELTA is a specific type of TEFL certification offered by Cambridge English Language Assessment, which follows a standardized curriculum and is widely recognized by employers worldwide. In terms of course content, both TEFL and CELTA programs cover essential topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language...  [Read more]

A TEFL certification exam is designed to assess your understanding and proficiency in teaching English as a foreign language. It typically covers various aspects of language teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management, grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and teaching methodologies. One of the key components of a TEFL certification exam is the theoretical knowledge of language teaching principles. This may include questions on different teaching approaches such as the communicative approach, task-based learning, or the audio-lingual method. You may also be tested on your understanding of language skills such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and how they can be effectively taught in the classroom. Another important aspect of a TEFL certification exam is lesson...  [Read more]

Combining a TEFL certification with other certifications can definitely enhance your career prospects in the field of teaching English as a foreign language. By obtaining additional certifications, you can demonstrate a higher level of expertise and specialization, making yourself more attractive to potential employers. Here's how you can combine TEFL with other certifications for a better career: Firstly, consider combining your TEFL certification with a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. TESOL is a broader term that encompasses various approaches to teaching English, including TEFL. By holding both certifications, you can show that you have a comprehensive understanding of language teaching methodologies and are equipped to work with diverse student...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certifications are both widely recognized qualifications that enable individuals to teach English to non-native speakers. Despite their similarities, there are some key differences between the two. One of the main distinctions between TEFL and TESOL certifications lies in their focus. TEFL is specifically geared towards teaching English to non-native speakers in countries where English is not the primary language. On the other hand, TESOL is a more comprehensive term that encompasses teaching English to non-native speakers in various contexts, including countries where English may be an official or second language. From an SEO perspective, understanding the differences between TEFL and...  [Read more]

  Our final methodology is accredited to Jeremy Harmer and it's known by the letters ESA. Around 1998, Jeremy Harmer produced a book called "How to teach English" and basically what Harmer did, is a background to this book is to do what we have done today and to work through all of the different methodologies that have come about over the last 300 years. He highlighted for each of those methodologies what was good about it, what was positive and what didn't appear to work and then put all of the positive things into a melting pot and came out with this methodology, which he called ESA. It's a three-stage methodology, where each of the letters represents a particular phase of the lesson. The first one being called the engage phase, the second the study phase and the final one the...  [Read more]

When developing your TEFL teaching approach, it is essential to consider various aspects to ensure effective language learning for your students. A well-rounded approach encompasses language skills, teaching methodologies, classroom management, and cultural awareness. Firstly, it is crucial to incorporate the four language skills - listening, speaking, reading, and writing - into your lessons. Each skill plays a vital role in language acquisition and should be practiced regularly. Utilizing a balanced approach that integrates all four skills will help students become proficient in using English in real-life situations. In addition to language skills, you should also consider the teaching methodologies that best suit your students' learning styles and language proficiency levels. Utilizing...  [Read more]

  In this ITTT TEFL review video Paul describes his experience during his TEFL/TESOL course in Sydney. He talks about the people he met and the students he taught during the course. ITTT's TEFL/TESOL certification courses last for four weeks and are held in a variety of exciting sites like Sydney. No matter which training center you select, our courses will focus on training you to teach English with the international standard communicative approach, where English is the only language used in the classroom. This means you do not need to be able to speak the local language. 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...  [Read more]

When creating a TEFL teaching plan, there are several key components to consider in order to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to teaching English as a foreign language. First and foremost, it is essential to establish clear learning objectives for each lesson or unit. These objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By clearly defining what students are expected to learn by the end of each lesson, you can effectively guide your teaching and assessment strategies. Next, consider the overall structure of your teaching plan. This may include identifying the main topics or themes to be covered, sequencing of lessons, and determining the appropriate teaching methodologies and resources to be used. It is important to strike a balance...  [Read more]

When it comes to TEFL teaching methods, there are several key components that you should include to create a successful and engaging learning experience for your students. These components are essential for ensuring that your students are able to effectively learn and practice the English language. Here are some important elements to consider including in your TEFL teaching methods: 1. **Communicative Approach**: The communicative approach focuses on real-life communication and interaction in the target language. Encourage your students to engage in meaningful conversations, role-plays, and language activities that simulate authentic language use. 2. **Task-Based Learning**: Incorporate tasks and activities that require students to use English in a practical way to achieve a goal. This...  [Read more]

  The simple answer is no, you do not need to have any knowledge or experience of languages other than English to take a TEFL course or to become an EFL teacher. The ability to speak other languages is not required as the vast majority of TEFL classrooms around the world rely on the communicative approach to English teaching that specifies that English is the only language used in the classroom. In multilingual classrooms where the students could have a dozen or more different first languages, being able to communicate in one or two of them would obviously be of no particular advantage. In monolingual classrooms you may also find that students are more inclined to revert to their mother tongue during the lesson if they are aware that the teacher can understand what is being said....  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL course that aligns with your educational philosophy, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to reflect on your beliefs and values as an educator. Consider what teaching methods and approaches resonate with you, whether you lean towards a more traditional, teacher-centered approach or a more student-centered, communicative approach. Next, look for a TEFL course that offers a curriculum that aligns with your educational philosophy. Some courses may focus more on grammar and vocabulary instruction, while others may emphasize real-life communication skills. Make sure to review the course syllabus and objectives to ensure they match your teaching priorities. Additionally, consider the teaching practicum component of the TEFL course. If you...  [Read more]

When considering the best TEFL course for teaching in rural communities, it is essential to prioritize practicality, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity. Rural teaching environments often present unique challenges, such as limited resources, diverse student populations, and a lack of access to educational materials. As such, a comprehensive TEFL course that equips educators with the necessary skills and strategies to thrive in such settings is crucial. One of the most highly recommended TEFL courses for teaching in rural communities is the CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) program. Offered by Cambridge Assessment English, the CELTA certification is globally recognized and provides a solid foundation in English language teaching methodology. The...  [Read more]

  So what we're going to do is to run through a series of methodologies that were created mainly in the 1900s that adopted the idea that language learning should be much more communicative, much more natural. The first one is called audiolingualism and it's also called the army method because of where it was developed. Basically, psychology, during the 1950s and 60s, was building up new theories about behaviorism. Perhaps the most famous experiments that were done in this particular area were by Pavlov, where he was showing that most animals undergo a stimulus response mechanism and he had a series of famous experiments, where by ringing a bell, he could cause a dog to salivate, that would be his response, in the expectation of getting some food. This behaviorist idea of stimulus...  [Read more]

  Our next consideration is going to be building and maintaining rapport. The importance of rapport is that within our communicative activities, we're asking the students to talk to each other. If they feel comfortable with each other and with us, then that interaction is much more likely to be useful. So how do we actually build and maintain rapport? Well, it's easiest if we consider two stages of the course itself. What we can do at the start of the course and what we can do throughout the course to help build and maintain that rapport. So at the start of the course, it's very useful if we ask the students to create a name card and to make that name card visible to everyone. Secondly we need to try to do some ice breaking activities that will allow the students to interact with...  [Read more]

TEFL courses cover a wide range of topics that are essential for teaching English as a foreign language effectively. These courses are designed to provide aspiring teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in the classroom. Here is an overview of the key areas that are typically covered in TEFL courses: 1. **Language Teaching Methodologies**: TEFL courses introduce various teaching methodologies such as the communicative approach, task-based learning, and the lexical approach. These methodologies provide teachers with different strategies for planning and delivering effective lessons. 2. **Lesson Planning**: TEFL courses teach aspiring teachers how to create well-structured lesson plans that cater to the needs of their students. This includes setting clear learning...  [Read more]

Preparing for a TEFL job interview is crucial for success in securing a teaching position. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your TEFL job interview: 1. Research the School or Institution: Before your interview, take the time to research the school or institution where you are applying to teach. Understand their teaching philosophy, student demographics, and any specific programs or initiatives they offer. 2. Review TEFL Teaching Methods: Familiarize yourself with different TEFL teaching methods and approaches, such as the communicative approach, task-based learning, and the lexical approach. Be prepared to discuss how you would implement these methods in the classroom. 3. Practice Common Interview Questions: Prepare responses to common TEFL interview questions, such as why you...  [Read more]

Assessing students in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is a crucial aspect of the teaching and learning process. Effective assessment practices not only help teachers gauge students' progress and understanding but also provide valuable feedback for both students and teachers to enhance the learning experience. Here are some best practices for assessing TEFL students: 1. **Use a Variety of Assessment Methods**: It's essential to employ a mix of assessment methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These can include traditional tests, quizzes, projects, presentations, role-plays, and group activities. By diversifying assessment techniques, teachers can obtain a more comprehensive understanding of students' language proficiency. 2. **Align Assessments with...  [Read more]

Creating a well-structured and comprehensive TEFL teaching syllabus is essential for ensuring that your students receive a well-rounded language learning experience. A good syllabus not only outlines the topics and skills that will be covered in the course but also provides a roadmap for both teachers and students to follow throughout the learning process. When designing a TEFL teaching syllabus, there are several key components that you should include to ensure that your students are able to achieve their language learning goals effectively. 1. **Language Skills**: Start by outlining the four main language skills that should be covered in the course: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Each of these skills plays a crucial role in language acquisition, so it's important to dedicate...  [Read more]