Comprehensible Input Definition

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This ESL worksheet with Christmas definitions is great for teaching your students more about Christmas, its customs, and how it is celebrated.   1. An imaginary creature that looks like a small person and has magical powers is a pixie. 2. A fat man with a white beard and a red suit who gives toys to children at Chriswtmas is Santa Claus. 3. Animals that are in front of Santa's sleigh are reindeer. 4. A shiny ball hung on a Christmas tree is a bable. 5. Wax formed into a stick with a string in the middle is a candle. 6. The "green" thing you decorate is called a Christmas tree. 7. Tinsel is shiny metal strips. 8. The red-nosed reindeer is called Rudolph. 9. Something you give to someone special is a present. ...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!   So what exactly are relative pronouns? Let's take a look at relative pronoun definition, useful grammar rules with examples sentences and an ESL printable infographic below.   A relative pronoun is used to join or relate two different clauses together by referring to the noun in the previous clause using the following pronouns: who, whom, whose, which and that.   "Which" and "that" are generally used for objects; while "who" and "whom" are used for people, and "whose" is used to show possession. Let's take a look at some examples: In this example, "which" joins the two related clauses about choosing a color and a color which would look good on everyone.   In this case, "that" joins the two...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Let's explore the present continuous tense in English with useful examples! Learn the definition and how to form the present continuous tense with this infographic.     The present continuous is a verb tense in which the action is on-going/still going on and hence the name "continuous". We use the present continuous tense to talk about actions that are happening at this current moment.     Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Addressing students' language input in TEFL lessons is crucial for effective language learning. By acknowledging and incorporating students' language input, you create a more engaging and student-centered learning environment. This approach helps to boost students' confidence, motivation, and overall language proficiency. Furthermore, it fosters a sense of ownership and investment in the learning process, leading to better retention and application of language skills in real-life situations. There are several strategies you can employ to address students' language input in your TEFL lessons. Encourage active participation through group discussions, role-plays, and pair work activities where students can practice using the language in context. Provide opportunities for students to share...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Here's a fun EFL worksheet to match health related vocabulary to their definitions.   Are you interested in teaching English as a foreign language? Get your TEFL Certification with ITTT. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Here's a fun EFL worksheet to match sports related vocabulary to their definitions.   Are you interested in teaching English as a foreign language? Get your TEFL Certification with ITTT. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

ESL (English as a Second Language) pertains to students learning English while living in an English-speaking environment. In contrast, EFL (English as a Foreign Language) is for students learning English in a country where it isn't the primary language. Essentially, the distinction lies in the learning context: ESL learners are surrounded by the language daily, while EFL learners study English in settings where the primary language isn't English. What do EFL and ESL actually stand for? What are the main differences between EFL and ESL? Teaching strategies for English as a second language Teaching strategies for English as a foreign language EFL and ESL represent the two primary categories of English language learning globally. While understanding these definitions isn't mandatory (since...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!   Let's take a look at the different types of Articles in English! Learn article definitions and how to use definite and indefinite articles in sentences with the ESL infographic below.   An article is defined as a word that modifies or describes a noun. Adjectives are used before the noun to show whether it refers to something specific or not. So, in a way, articles can also be described as a type of adjective as they also tell us something about the noun, just like adjectives. There are two types of articles in the English language, they are indefinite articles (a, an) and definite article (the).   Definite means to be clear, exact or obvious about something. It is called definite because it is used in...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! What does e.g. mean? Let's take a look at the definition and usage of this expression with this ESL infographic. Learn how and when to use this abbreviation to enlarge your vocabulary word and improve your English conversations.   The term ‘for example’ gets abbreviated as ‘e.g.’ in the English language. It is only used in written language, such as in magazines, newspapers, essays or texting.   The abbreviation ‘e.g.’ is from the Latin expression ‘exempli gratia’ and means ‘for the sake of an example’ or more commonly ‘for example’.   Let's take a look at some examples of ‘e.g.’ being used in a conversation:   Person 1: Hey do you like desserts? Person 2: Yeah. Person...  [Read more]

Sara Stojanovic TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas During the previous century, there were many different discussions on second language learning. Hence, many theories were formed by different researchers. The most famous hypothesis was proposed by an American linguist Steven Krashen. Nature vs Nurture Krashen's Hypothesis Acquisition or learning Krashen's Natural Approach Conclusion Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! Researchers have divided second language acquisition into two categories: nurture and nature. The former proposes that human interaction with the environment leads to experience which results in the acquisition of human knowledge including second...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Lewis (1993) claims that "Lexis is the core or heart of language" (p 89). Indeed, it is one of the basic steps of mastering a foreign language. Vocabulary knowledge is what makes verbal communication between people possible. Most teachers face problems when teaching new items. They feel the need to use techniques to have an effective lesson. Over the years, teachers have tried to find the most effective and practical strategies to teach vocabulary. They have been applying several methods like fill in the blank definitions, pre-teaching unfamiliar words and stressing high-frequency words. This essay will just focus on three strategies that can help teach vocabularies such as using visual aids, highlighting vocabulary in context and vocabulary practice....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Lewis (1993) claims that "Lexis is the core or heart of language" (p 89). Indeed, it is one of the basic steps of mastering a foreign language. Vocabulary knowledge is what makes verbal communication between people possible. Most teachers face problems when teaching new items. They feel the need to use techniques to have an effective lesson. Over the years, teachers have tried to find the most effective and practical strategies to teach vocabulary. They have been applying several methods like fill in the blank definitions, pre-teaching unfamiliar words and stressing high-frequency words. This essay will just focus on three strategies that can help teach vocabularies such as using visual aids, highlighting vocabulary in context and vocabulary practice. 1....  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word meticulous. This word refers to the action of showing great attention to detail, as well as being very careful or precise. Some synonyms for meticulous include careful, diligent and conscientious. The word comes from the Latin meticulosus meaning fearful. 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. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This unit is teaching the future tenses and...  [Read more]

In today's digital age, technology can be a powerful tool for engaging young learners in the English language. Interactive whiteboards, educational apps, and online resources can make learning fun and interactive. Websites like ABCya, Funbrain, and Starfall offer a wide range of educational games and activities that can help students improve their English skills while having fun. Additionally, platforms like Kahoot and Quizlet allow teachers to create interactive quizzes and flashcards to reinforce learning in a playful way. Young learners thrive on hands-on activities and games that make learning English enjoyable and memorable. Games like Simon Says, Bingo, and Charades can be adapted to practice vocabulary, grammar, and speaking skills. Flashcard games, such as Memory or Go Fish, can...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Vocabulary has a direct impact on written and spoken language comprehension. All students come to school with differences in their vocabulary knowledge, and part of teaching them how to be successful in English is to teach them vocabulary. Vocabulary development plays a critical role in helping English language learners increase their ability to communicate in the receptive and expressive domains in English. This is why vocabulary must be explicitly and systematically taught. Learn how to teach vocabulary effectively with a TEFL course today! Listen to this blog post Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Gina A. Research suggests the following three big ideas about teaching and learning new words: Also read: 4 Super...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Destinations TEFL Information Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly emerged as a game-changer across various industries, including education. The integration of AI tools in the classroom has the potential to revolutionize the way students learn and teachers teach. One such tool is ChatGPT, an AI chatbot that simulates conversation with human users. In this blog post, we will delve into what AI and chatbots are and how ChatGPT can be used in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. We will also explore the benefits and challenges of using AI tools like ChatGPT in education. Watch the live webinar about this topic Defining ChatGPT, chatbots, and artificial intelligence So what is ChatGPT? The Benefits of Using A.I. in the EFL Classroom Personalized learning...  [Read more]

English Language Learners (ELLs) come from diverse backgrounds and have varying levels of proficiency in English. It is crucial for teachers to understand these proficiency levels to provide appropriate instruction. Proficiency levels are often categorized into beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Beginners may have limited vocabulary and struggle with basic grammar, while intermediate learners can communicate in everyday situations but may lack fluency. Advanced learners have a strong grasp of the language but may still struggle with complex concepts or nuances. By assessing students' proficiency levels, teachers can tailor their instruction to meet their specific needs and help them progress effectively. There are several effective strategies that teachers can use to support English...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Whom a student is defined within about same parameters by different sources. The Collins COBUILD Advanced Dictionary also has two definitions of the word student. The Basis of the Article Useful Tips Program Core Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: The Merriam Webster dictionary (online) has two definitions of students which are as reproduced below: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate PAUL D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. For this summative assignment, the second definition by the Merriam-Webster and Collins COBUILD Dictionary will be used. Using the second definition as just stated, a beginner student will be one who is new to...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Grammar plays a very important role in learning and teaching a foreign language. What is grammar? Crystal describes grammar as "the business of taking a language to pieces, to see how it works" (as cited in Bentsen, 2017). Definition of Grammar Explicit Grammar Teaching Williams believes that meaning-focused instruction Communicative Approach Nunan defines communicative language teaching as Larsen-Freeman's recommended that grammar teaching Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Meral B. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. According to Swan ''grammar is essentially a limited set of devices for...  [Read more]

To teach English effectively without speaking the student's language, focus on using methods and techniques that promote language learning through immersion and communication. Here are some key strategies to consider: Yes, you can effectively teach English to non-native speakers without knowing their language. Teaching English to speakers of other languages, also known as TESOL or TEFL, is a specialized skill that focuses on using English as the medium of instruction. Here are some reasons why knowing the students' language is not a requirement for effective English language teaching: Understanding of language learning principles: TEFL/TESOL training equips teachers with knowledge of language learning theories, teaching methodologies, and classroom management techniques that are applicable...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas I have always loved and benefited from etymological definitions of words and always wonder sometimes even the etymological definition of a very simple word like "sorry" which leads to great insights and a better understanding of that particular word which in turn pays off in ways that have a great positive impact on both my personal and professional life. For that very reason, I have found the etymological definitions of both words "learning" and "techniques". What is Learning? What is Technique? Teachers and Students Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mohammad S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences What does it mean to learn a language? Generally, when we talk about learning a language, we mean a process that starts with a person not knowing a language but ends up knowing it, regardless of the number of languages a person might already know. Of course, this is an overly simplified definition, but it gives us a decent starting point. So why are our experiences and the mental image of acquiring our first language so different from one of learning a foreign language? In this essay, I will consider the perceived difference between first and second language acquisition. Learning a Foreign Language Age Way of learning Focus Research in the field Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our...  [Read more]

Shirin Sophy Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas The study stage, when the teaching is actually done, is the second phase of a straight-arrow ESA lesson plan. What needs to be taught in this stage depends on the course content and the source the teacher is expected to cover through a specific period. Pre-teaching Skimming Scanning Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! But generally speaking, languages are made of receptive and productive skills in addition to systems like syntax or grammar, vocabulary or lexis, and phonology. The content of textbooks is normally centered around these areas. Although the ESA method is supposed to be applied for almost every lesson, no matter if it is allocated to a skill or system, the details of the...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching vocabulary is one of the important ways for teachers to help English students succeed. When students expand their vocabulary, they can improve other language skills. The more vocabulary students have, the more words they can use to express thinking in their minds. And there are so many ways to help students to build their vocabulary, especially the three following ways. Visualization Flashcards Context Student Talking Time Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Anh N. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The first way is using visual stimuli to present vocabulary. Visual learning plays a big...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas As a new teacher, grammar was initially very difficult for me to teach. It was difficult to demonstrate grammar patterns succinctly. Luckily, the school that I work for has provided help by having an established curriculum. The key to teaching grammar, however, has been teaching variable inputs in otherwise unchanging structures as part of student-centered games. Strategies on how to teach positive patterns How to teach negative patterns? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Stephen W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. If I were to teach the pattern, "What does Billy like?/ He likes _____", then I...  [Read more]

  Elias is from the United States and recently completed our 120-hour online TEFL/TESOL course. He was very impressed by the course. Even though he had teaching experience for over 20 years in various countries worldwide, he still learned a lot of new methods and techniques. He thought all units were well designed, well planned and comprehensible. The tutor support was also very effective and helped him deepen his knowledge. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas A definition of cultural sensitivity is being aware that cultural differences and similarities between people exist without assigning them a value – positive or negative, better or worse, right or wrong. This definition gets the idea across the best. The Essence of Cultural Sensitivity Solution of the Problem Rapport Building Course Structure Conquering Prejudice Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Aiham W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Within a classroom many people come from many backgrounds, resulting in a variety of cultures being present in one area. To be able to maintain a...  [Read more]

  Understanding Authentic Materials Importance of Adapting Materials Strategies for Adapting Materials Adapting Materials for Beginner Levels Adapting Materials for Intermediate Levels Adapting Materials for Advanced Levels Incorporating Authentic Materials in Lesson Plans Benefits of Using Authentic Materials Challenges of Adapting Authentic Materials Conclusion: Enhancing Language Learning with Authentic Materials Authentic materials are real-life texts used in the classroom to expose students to language as it is used in the real world. They can include newspapers, magazines, songs, advertisements, and more. ITTT is a leading provider of TEFL and TESOL courses that emphasize the use of authentic materials in language teaching. Authentic materials are real-life texts used in the...  [Read more]

  This video covers the difference between 'principal' and 'principle'. These two words often cause confusion for English learners due to their similar spelling. The word 'principal' can be used as a noun and as an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a person of authority, like a school principal, the head of a school. When used as an adjective, it means 'leading' or 'primary', like a principal cause or reason. The word 'principle', on the other hand, is only used as a noun and refers to a moral or standard, like the principle of free speech. 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...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Weather and whether are a pair of homophones which means they sound the same, but they have different spellings and meanings. Here we explain how to use these words correctly.   WEATHER Definition and Examples Weather can be a noun or a verb. WEATHER Examples: WHETHER Definition and Examples Whether is a conjunction, which joins two words or phrases together. WHETHER Examples: Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]