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British English vs American English. Which is Better? - TEFL Blog
Jon ITTT
Alumni Experiences
As more and more countries place a growing importance on its people to learn English as a secondary language, for work purposes or for general use, there is a growing debate about which is the better English to learn - British English or American English.
Both versions are essentially the same
Prioritise teaching "Good English"
Certain students may need specific versions of English
Points to consider when choosing a version to teach
Exploring the differences can be an interesting lesson
Don't get obsessed with minor differences
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Max E.
The argument stems from the growing influence of America in the modern world. British... [Read more]
British vs. American: Which English Accent to Choose? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
British English versus American English always sparks a lively discussion. I have read some articles so far as to compare these 2 languages and gather the information from the online resources.
Personal experience
The history of English
Vocabulary challenge
Teaching implications and classroom problems
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Zahra J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
I am Iranian and have many American and British friends and I have been living abroad for about 6 years. As an English speaker as a second language, it took me a while to learn what is British and what is American English.... [Read more]
British English vs. American English: 50 Differences Illustrated - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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The differences between British English and American English are always fun to take a look at. Below are 40 differences between the two illustrated.
Learn the difference between American English vs British English.
British vs American English
1. Post ………… Mail
2. Film ………… Movie
3. Rubbish ………… Garbage
4. Football ………… Soccer
5. Chips ………… Fries
6. Rubber ………… Eraser
7. Zip ………… Zipper
8. Sweets ………… Candy
9. Biscuit ………… Cookie
10. Maize ………… Corn
... [Read more]
How exactly do these forms of English differ? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
American English and British English are the two main varieties of the English language, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's how these forms of English differ:
American English and British English are the two main forms of the English language, each with its own unique characteristics. The main differences between American English and British English include:
Understanding the differences between forms of English, such as British English, American English, and others, is crucial for effective communication and language teaching. Here's why:
Yes, learning different forms of English can greatly help in communicating with speakers from various backgrounds and regions. Understanding and being able to use different forms of English can enhance communication in a variety of ways,... [Read more]
British English v American English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Teach English Abroad
SOURCE: www . lebonbon . co . uk/lifestyle/infographic-you-sound-like-youre-from-london/
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One More Look at American English and British English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
The United States and the United Kingdom's imperial histories and modern influences have had a significant effect on the English wording. Since English was exported to different countries across the world, the language has undergone different variations, the most common one being the British English vs. American English. The British introduced the language to Americans in the 17th century. At that time, the spelling had not been standardized. Given the number of regions where English is used, differences are bound to arise. Even though British and American English may seem similar, there are disparities in vocabulary, spelling, and grammar.
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Vocabulary
Spelling
Grammar
Culture
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL... [Read more]
The Most Important Differences Between British and American English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
American English and British English are two varieties which are taught in English teaching programs around the world. Although it is accepted that no one version is corrected, there are certainly preferences in use. Someone who can speak, read or understand one variety of English, he/she'll also probably be able to understand most of the other varieties without problem.
Pronunciation differences
Vocabulary differences
Spelling differences
Grammar differences
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sumeyra Y.
The differences between American and British English can be categorized in four ways:
British English and American sound remarkably different. The... [Read more]
The Most Distinct Differences between American and British English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
When it comes to learning English, non-native speakers can feel quite torn on whether they should learn British English or American English. They have their similarities, but can contrast each other strongly. The differences can be confusing for English speakers as well. The diversity in spelling, pronunciation, and vocabulary can really throw you off. In this article, I will be focusing on these three topics. Let's explore spelling, shall we?
Important Spelling Differences
Differences in Word Choice
Same Word - Different Pronunciation
Other Things to Consider
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Tabitha C.
Growing up in the USA, I learned to spell in... [Read more]
Some of the differences between American English and British English ▷ Infographic - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
British and American English differs in several ways that encompass vocabulary, grammarand spelling, and a student is not wrong if they use either version. Teachers should teach the English that they themselves speak but also have an awareness of the differences between the two. If a teacher is required to teach a course book that is in a version of English different to their own, then they should teach the English used in the book.
Some of the differences in vocabulary covered in this graphic are fairly well known such as ‘pavement’ (GB) and ‘sidewalk’ (US), others not so much as in the case of ‘fortnight’ (GB) and ‘two weeks’ (US). While the differences between the two don’t generally matter, a teacher may prefer to teach one... [Read more]
Why Teachers Need to Be Careful with British English and American English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Learning English is very difficult, there are many various grammatical and spelling differences between the English spoken throughout the world. Most notably is British and American English grammar. There are also differences in the pronunciation and meanings of many words. While you would think learning English would be a simple task, it is not, after all how different can English be from English? There are a few additional factors - Canadian, Australian, South African, Indian English, etc. have their own differences, these are differences that must be taken into consideration while you study the English Language.
Why Learners Have to Know Variasions
Differences in Spelling
Differences in Pronunciation
Differences in Vocabulary
Differences in... [Read more]
What are the main differences between American and British English? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
British and American English showcase several key differences that learners should be aware of:
These differences underline the richness and diversity of the English language, influenced by geographical and historical contexts.
Differences in vocabulary
Differences in grammar
Collective nouns
Have and take
Prepositions
Past tense verbs
Differences in spelling
Differences in dates
Vocabulary discrepancies constitute a major source of confusion. Numerous words have distinct meanings in the two language versions. While teaching English, it is natural to focus on the words that make the most sense to you personally. However, it is important for students to be aware of alternative terms to avoid confusion later on. While the extensive list of vocabulary differences is too lengthy to present... [Read more]
How Important is the Difference Between American English and British English for EFL Learners? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
This summative essay will exam the importance of teaching the differences between American English and British English for EFL learners. I will examine the intention behind teaching these differences, and when these teachings should be applied, and to what effect and purpose. This essay will focus primarily on the problems of pronunciation and spelling, which are the two main differences. I am a British citizen, born and raised in London, England, and currently teach at a public high school in Tokyo.
Spelling
Challenges for Beginners and Intermediate Learners
What do Students Think?
Grammar
Interesting Experience for Adults
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate... [Read more]
Last posts written by Elizaveta
Liza is a translator, freelancer and ESL teacher from Russia. She had been teaching in a Chinese bilingual school for more than two years and recently moved to Thiland to run her blog about teaching and freelance job.
Elizaveta Pachina
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
This blog post was written by a recent ITTT TEFL graduate who considers the problem of ESL teaching materials. ✅ Read this article to find out how to create and implement teaching materials in TEFL teaching.
Elizaveta Pachina
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
This blog post was written by a recent ITTT TEFL graduate who considers the problem of ESL classroom management. ✅ Read this article to find out how to manage any TEFL class in 7 easy steps.
Elizaveta Pachina
TEFL... [Read more]
British English language features - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
British English is an incredibly diverse and fascinating language that has evolved over centuries. From its origins in Old English to the modern-day dialects spoken across the United Kingdom, British English is a rich tapestry of accents, vocabulary, and grammar rules. Understanding the unique features of British English can provide valuable insights into the culture and history of the British Isles. In this article, we will delve into some of the key characteristics that set British English apart from other forms of the language, exploring everything from pronunciation and spelling to slang and regional variations.
One of the most distinctive features of British English is its wide range of accents and dialects. From the received pronunciation (RP) of the Queen's English to the... [Read more]
Tips for Stating the Date in English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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Writing dates in English can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some common ways to write dates in British and American English.
What is the correct format for dates in English? This is something very important to teach your students when teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL).
How to write the date in English usually depends on the following things: Whether you write a formal letter or an informal note; and whether you use British or American English. Let's take a look at the examples below. As you can see, there are a number of ways in which you can write the same date. As a general rule we can say that the more complicated the style of date, the more formal it is.
In British English (which is mainly used... [Read more]
British English language variations - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Understanding the nuances of British English is essential for effective communication in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries influenced by British culture. From spelling and pronunciation to vocabulary and grammar, British English has distinct variations that set it apart from American English. Whether you are planning to travel, study, or work in a British English-speaking environment, familiarizing yourself with these differences can help you navigate conversations and written communication with confidence.
One of the most noticeable differences between British English and American English lies in spelling and pronunciation. Words like "colour" (color), "centre" (center), and "realise" (realize) demonstrate the unique spelling conventions used in British English.... [Read more]
English in The United Kingdom and in The United States of America - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
When I started my ITTT classes, I wasn't totally sure of the difference between British English and American English. I knew there were accents and pronunciation differences, but it seemed like no big deal. Then I learned more about grammar, vocabulary, idioms, and spelling. When you speak to someone who has never spoken or has very little knowledge of the two, I can see how things get really confusing. British English is a bit more formal and follows the Kings English, where American English is a little bit more laid back.
Defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary:
Especially:
Defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary:
British English vs. American English
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Tefl reviews - Course Books For Business English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
BrE = British English
AmE = American English
A1 - B1 etc. = Language levels from the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages(CEFR)
Int = International English
OUP
Business Venture (A1 - B1)
International Express (AI-C1]
Business Result (A1 - C2)
CAMBRIDGE
Business Plus (Al- Bl, Int)
New International Business English (B2, BrE)
Communicating in Business 2nd Edition (B2 - C1, AmE)
PEARSON/LONGMAN
Intelligent Business (AZ-Cl.BrE)
Market Leader (AI-Cl.BrE)
Workplace Plus (4 levels, AmE)
ABAX ELT PUBLISHERS
Business Listening & Speaking
MACMILLAN
In Company 3.0 (AI-Cl)
Macmillan Business English Skills
(AI-Cl.BrE)
Workplace Plus (4 levels, AmE)
BARRONS ENGLISH
LANGUAGE ARTS
Business English
How to Write Better Business Letters
COLLINS ELT
Collins Business... [Read more]
British English language usage - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Dive into the rich and diverse world of British English language usage with ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). Whether you are a language enthusiast, a budding teacher, or someone looking to enhance their communication skills, understanding British English can open up a world of opportunities for you. From mastering the nuances of pronunciation to delving into the intricacies of British culture, our comprehensive courses are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in using British English effectively.
As one of the most widely spoken languages globally, English plays a crucial role in connecting people from different cultures and backgrounds. British English, in particular, is recognized for its influence on literature, arts, and business around the... [Read more]
All About British Tea - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Teach English Abroad
SOURCE: infographixdirectory . com/food/all-about-english-tea/
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
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British English language peculiarities - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Exploring the Unique Peculiarities of British English Language
In the realm of English language learning, one cannot overlook the distinctive features that set British English apart from its American counterpart. From spelling variations to vocabulary differences, British English has its own charm and quirks that make it a fascinating subject of study. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the peculiarities of British English and shed light on the nuances that make it a delightful dialect to explore.
Understanding the nuances of British English can greatly enhance your language skills and broaden your cultural horizons. Whether you are a language enthusiast, a student, or a professional looking to improve your communication abilities, delving into the intricacies of British... [Read more]
Vietnamese Pronunciation Problems in English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Speaking like a native speaker is always expected from learners. However, they encounter many factors that prevent their success. Therefore, as an English teacher, I want to explore some common difficulties that Vietnamese students face when they learn to pronounce English so that I can teach effectively and help them communicate more confidently.
Problem with vowels
Problems with consonants
Word stress, sentence stress
Intonation and word connection
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Thuong L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Four major features can cause problems for them. Firstly, the... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Look Vs See Vs Watch English Grammar Teaching Tips - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
In this video Linda breaks down the difference between "look", "see" and "watch". The differences surrounding these three words can be quite difficult to understand for non-native English learners. However, this video looks at the three words in detail breaking down exactly how to differentiate between them.
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.
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? have found this task to be quite challenging... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - They_re Vs Their Vs There English Grammar Teaching Tips - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
"They're", "their" and "there" are three words that are often used incorrectly. "They're" is simply the contracted form of "they are". "Their" is a possessive and indicates ownership of something. "There" indicates a place. Due to the Internet and instant messaging, the three words have been icreasingly used incorrectly. However, if you'd like to use them correctly, you should keep their meanings in mind. When trying to decide which word to use remember that "they're" = they are, "their" = ownership and "there" = place.
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... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Assure Vs Insure Vs Ensure English Grammar Teaching Tips - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
In this video Linda explains the differences between "assure", "insure" and "ensure". They not only sound similar, but those three words also make an outcome sure but they are in no way interchangeable. "Assure" is used to speak out a promise or say something with confidence, for example "I assure you that he is a great lawyer". "Ensure" is used to make something certain, such as here: "Please ensure that you will be home at five o'clock today"."Insure" means to protect an object against risk by buying an insurance policy from an insurance company, like here: "I insure my television because it was expensive". Once you have realized the three different meanings and usages, there is no way you'll confuse them again.
Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Lightening Vs Lightning Vs Lighting English Grammar Teaching Tips - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
The three words lightening, lightning and lighting are easily confused by English learners and even native speakers. Let's take a look at the differences. Lightening is the present participle of the verb to lighten describing the action of making something less heavy. A good example would be "I was lightening the load on my horse because it was exhausted." Lightning refers to a streak of static electricity through the sky usually accompanied by thunder, as here "I was struck by lightning while playing golf in a storm." Lighting is the arrangement of light especially in photography. A suitable example for this would be "The photo was dull because the lighting wasn't good enough".
Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL... [Read more]
Top 10 Cities in Latin America with the Highest Demand for English Language Teachers - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Destinations
While you are not likely to find the highest salaries in this region, teachers moving to Latin America to teach English are predominantly attracted by the continents cultural richness and varied landscapes. Whether you see yourself exploring the Andes in Chile or the rainforests of Costa Rica, here are the top 10 cities in Latin America with the highest demand for English language teachers.
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Buenos Aires - La Reina del Plata
San José - The Big Pineapple
Santiago - Gem of Latin America
Lima - The City of Kings
Bogotá - The Rising Star in Latin America
Mexico City - The City of Palaces
Rio De Janeiro - The City of Carnaval
Guatemala City - Land of Eternal Spring
Quito - Light of America
Managua - The Paris of Central America
Are... [Read more]
Which English should be taught in the TEFL classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
In the field of TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), the choice of English variation often depends on the specific preferences of a country:
In conclusion, TEFL teachers should be aware of a country's preference and adapt their teaching accordingly.
Map created by reddit user Speech500
Source: moverdb.com
How exactly do these forms of English differ?
Spelling Differences
British Grammar vs. American Grammar
Same Word - Different Pronunciation
Differences in word for the same object
Other considerations
There are a number of major differences which we will examine. The following are in no way exhaustive and you should investigate for yourself for more examples.
Mainly due to the influence of Webster (of dictionary fame) American English has focused on how words are 'sounded' to... [Read more]
English Pronunciation Problems of Italian Native Speakers - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Teaching English pronunciation to students of other languages is always a big deal. English teachers from other countries may think that it is a topic to be skipped or only briefly introduced to students, but it is one of the most important subjects and it should be an integral part of an English course. As a matter of fact, the full understanding of a language and good communication actually depend, to a certain extent, on how correctly words are pronounced. Also, it is not only a matter of pronunciation but intonation. Every language has its own intonation and stress on words, so an English learner could find it difficult to get used to a new way of pronouncing words in another language. This is true for those learners who speak Romance languages... [Read more]
Can I teach English abroad with a TEFL certificate from a Latin American country? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificates are essential qualifications for individuals looking to teach English abroad. These certificates provide the necessary training and skills to teach English to non-native speakers effectively. There are various types of TEFL certificates available, ranging from online courses to in-person intensive programs.
TEFL certificates obtained from Latin American countries are generally recognized worldwide. However, it is essential to ensure that the certificate meets the specific requirements of the country where you intend to teach. Some countries may have preferences for certificates from certain accrediting bodies or institutions. It is advisable to research the recognition of TEFL certificates in your desired destination before... [Read more]
