How Can I Be A Better Teacher

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences I've taken four years of college Russian. Throughout my time at my university, I learned a few things about both learning and teaching a language that have helped me become a better ESL teacher. Creating a Comfortable Classroom Environment The teacher doesn't know everything. Using a Variety of Teaching Aids and Materials Always Be Respectful and Use the Right Language Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: This post was written by our ITTT graduate Leif O. One crucial aspect of learning a language is making sure that everyone in the class is comfortable. While this is true with young learners, this is especially true for adults. Adults don't want to make mistakes. Business professionals have devoted their...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences The following blog post is about an ITTT graduate who shares his story on how learning Chinese helped him to become a better English teacher in China. What do you call someone who speaks only one language? "My insights into their language and culture were incredibly helpful." "Many Chinese are anxious about speaking English with natives - more so than is to be considered normative." "The best ESL teachers are the ones with experience with the native language of their students." Listen to this blog post Now it's your turn to get TEFL certified! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph S. A common saying imparted to me by one of my professors goes like this: "What do you call someone who speaks three languages?...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching a foreign language involves a whole set of different stages and methods that are guided and put into practice by the teacher. Universal Language Power of Songs Choosing teaching materials Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Maria S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. If music is a "universal language", and it is furthermore considered as an element inherent to culture, this link between music and the teaching of language can be explored using the song as didactic material. Often the most playful or innovative moments are the ones that are recorded in the student's memory. Thus, one of the...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, having strong language skills is crucial for effectively communicating with students, explaining concepts clearly, and providing feedback. Your language proficiency sets the foundation for successful language teaching, as it serves as a model for students to emulate. Additionally, being proficient in the language you are teaching helps you understand the challenges students may face and enables you to tailor your teaching methods to address these issues effectively. To enhance your language skills, consider immersing yourself in the language as much as possible. This can involve activities such as reading books, watching movies or TV shows, listening to podcasts, and engaging in conversations with native speakers. Language exchange programs are also beneficial, as they...  [Read more]

Rhea Latchu Alumni Experiences What if I told you it is totally possible to combine your passion with your dream? Teaching English, the Ticket to Being an Expat Not the Typical Tourist The Teaching Aspect The Balancing Act So Are You Ready for Your Journey? Related Articles: Well, it is. You see, for as long as I can remember, I have always had the dream to travel and wander around this globe. Then approximately four years ago, I discovered a passion within me that I didn't even know existed: teaching! And that is how my journey working as an EFL Teacher began! Teaching English for many presents the opportunity needed to become an expat. To live the expat life. This was certainly the case for me. When I accepted a volunteer position as an English Teacher in Chile four years ago, it...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Teaching Ideas It is important to establish rapport with students within a classroom for a variety of reasons, it builds trust between students and teacher, insights confidence in students and allows for a fun learning environment. All aspects of teaching require a teacher to have some sort of rapport with students. Students will retain more information and do better in classes when the teacher is engaged and shows love for their job as well as an interest in their students. Most students will not learn well from a teacher who comes to class, does not greet the students let alone knows their names and just reads through the lesson without showing any interest whatsoever. It is far more beneficial for a teacher to have a good rapport with his/her students as it will make...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Nowadays English has become a common language that helps to facilitate the communication between people from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities. English may not be the most widely used language in the world, but it is the official language of 53 countries and it is used by around 400 million people worldwide. As a result, being able to speak English does not only mean communicating with native English speakers, but it also means opening the door to new international chances and opportunities. 3 Key Strengths of Non-Native ESL Teachers: 1. They have a better understanding of the difficulties and challenges faced by their students. 2. They are more precise when it comes to pronunciation and spelling. 3. They are bilingual. 3 Most Common Weaknesses of...  [Read more]

Collaborating with local teachers as a TEFL teacher can be a rewarding experience that enriches both your teaching practice and theirs. Building relationships with local teachers is a crucial first step in establishing a successful collaboration. Attend school events, staff meetings, and professional development workshops to get to know your colleagues. Show interest in their teaching methods, cultural practices, and educational challenges. By demonstrating respect for their expertise and willingness to learn from them, you can lay the foundation for a productive partnership. One of the key benefits of collaborating with local teachers is the opportunity to share resources and ideas. As a TEFL teacher, you can bring in fresh perspectives, teaching techniques, and materials from your own...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas We all played them and we all loved them as children. We made them up and we bought them. It is still a large industry today. There are easy ones and hard ones. There are thinking ones and action ones. What am I referring to? Games! From hide-and-go-seek to Monopoly, there are all sorts of fun games to play. So why don't we incorporate them into our TEFL lessons? Ways to Accumulate Games in Your Classroom Personal Experience Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Samuel S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. You can create your games or adapt to the ones you already know and love. They can be used for...  [Read more]

Contrary to the common misconception that teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is just a temporary gig or a way to pay off student debt, many educators have turned it into a lucrative, long-term profession. Whether teaching abroad or online, TEFL can indeed be a fulfilling lifelong career. Is it possible to make a long-term career out of teaching English as a foreign language? What qualifications do I need to pursue a career in TEFL? What skills will I need to pursue a career in TEFL? What other TEFL-related jobs are there in the long run? What are the advantages of a long-term TEFL career? Absolutely. While many initially venture into EFL teaching to explore the world and earn, they soon discover a passion and aptitude for it. With continuous skill enhancement and dedication,...  [Read more]

Anastasiia Ovchinnikova TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Back in the days when I was living in China with my British boyfriend, who was born and raised in Oxford, we would always make our friends smile talking about our careers. We always felt it was a bit ironic that out of the two of us, it was me who ended up as an English language teacher. I started to wonder whether he would have been a better English teacher than me, had he decided to work at one of the international schools in China. Listen to this blog post: 1. NNET Personal Experience Is Better Than Any Certificate 2. Someone Who Knows How To Speak a Language Doesn't Necessarily Know How To Teach It 3. NNETs Understand Cultural Peculiarities Are you ready to start your own teaching adventure? Related Articles: Check out what...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences When one begins to study a new language, they can often find themselves to be a bit overwhelmed. Language acquisition is not an easy task, and it comes with many challenges and difficulties attached. Although, as ESL teachers, we are trained to look out for common errors and given the best teaching ideas and methodologies to use in the classroom, it can sometimes feel as though something is missing. Teachers who have studied a foreign language and have had experience using the language possess that missing piece, and their foreign language experience makes them better teachers. "Teachers were once in their students' shoes." "Having foreign language experience helps teachers." Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Listen...  [Read more]

Absolutely! Many language schools worldwide are more interested in your teaching skills and passion than your specific educational background. While possessing a degree can offer additional opportunities, it is not a definitive barrier. Many individuals without degrees successfully pursue and thrive in English teaching roles abroad. Why is a degree required to do certain TEFL teaching jobs? How can I get a TEFL job if I don't have a degree? Where can I teach English if I don't have a degree? While there is no universal mandate stating TEFL teachers must have a bachelor's degree, several TEFL jobs do require one. The primary rationale behind this requirement is not necessarily pedagogical but administrative, mainly to fulfill visa regulations set by specific countries. Indeed, while...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences When learning a new language one's teacher plays an important role in how they develop and increase their knowledge, as well as how motivated they are to continue studying, regardless of teaching methodology, differences in culture, age, experiences that affect students way of learning or their initial reason to start learning said language. Teachers' Responsibilities Point of View Methods of Delivering Lessons Behavior Management Parents-Teachers Communication Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ria J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. A Teacher must help students learn new material and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas This is defined by Google as "the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry" or by Wikipedia as "the collection of techniques, skills, methods, and processes used in the production of goods or services or in the accomplishment of objectives, such as scientific investigation". Digital era Technology in the classroom Things to consider Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Dan S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. We are in the new world of technology, almost every sector in every nation is imbibed and subjected to technology because as people say it is...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Games are a useful tool for teachers of EFL students because they help with motivation, engagement, and graceful failure (Plass 260-261). I will present a successful example of a teacher using games in an adult grammar class from Indonesia. Second, since I plan to teach online EFL students, I will present free digital games online teachers can use in their virtual classrooms. Advantages of the Theory The First Research Popular Games Access to Materials My Choice Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Christopher C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Many professional articles have been written showing...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas When I consider the most important aspect of the education system, the very first thing I think of is teachers. I would argue that teachers are the backbone of the education system. Anyone that attended school, regardless of country or region, was once educated by teachers. Even though all of us have that in common, it is impossible to think that everyone had the same experience regarding the teachers that influenced them. The obvious reason is that, just like every person is unique and different, all teachers are unique and distinct. It is sad to admit, but not every certified teacher is a good teacher. There are certain qualities that I believe are necessary to be a successful teacher. I will argue that patience, skill, and relatable personal...  [Read more]

Typically, TEFL teachers should possess an accredited TEFL certificate with at least 120 hours of training. Proficiency in English, either as a native or fluent speaker, is also vital. While a bachelor's degree can enhance job prospects, many institutions prioritize the TEFL certification. Above all, a zest for adventure and a passion for teaching are invaluable assets in this field. Do I need to be fluent in English to get a job in TEFL? Do I need to be a native English speaker to get a job in TEFL? Do I need a TEFL qualification to teach English? Can I get a TEFL job if I have completed a TEFL taster course? What is a 120-hour TEFL certificate course? Should I take additional TEFL courses to enhance my job opportunities? Fluency in English is fundamental for those aspiring to become...  [Read more]

Combining TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) with other certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects and open up new opportunities in the field of education. By diversifying your skill set through additional certifications, you not only become a more well-rounded and versatile educator but also increase your marketability in the competitive job market. One of the key benefits of combining TEFL with other certifications is the ability to specialize in a particular area of education. For example, pairing TEFL with a certification in Special Education can equip you with the skills and knowledge to work with students with learning disabilities or behavioral challenges. This specialization can make you more attractive to employers looking for educators with specific...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT TEFL Information Teaching Ideas Lesson planning is an important part of being a TEFL teacher. While experienced TEFL teachers may appear to not require a plan it is only because they have probably taught a lesson so many times that the majority of their plan is in their head. They will still have a good idea of how they want and expect the lesson to proceed. Inexperienced TEFL teachers will need the structure a good lesson plan provides. What is the purpose of lesson planning? What are the basic tenets of lesson planning? What is the lesson planning process? Preparation Teaching Reflection Are you planning to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! A good plan acts as a guide to your planning. It helps a TEFL...  [Read more]

TEFL certification is a vital step in becoming a proficient English teacher, especially for non-native speakers. It equips educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. The certification covers various aspects of language teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment. By enrolling in a TEFL course, teachers gain a solid foundation in teaching methodologies and linguistics, enabling them to deliver high-quality instruction to their students. TEFL certification offers a plethora of benefits that can significantly enhance an English teacher's career. Firstly, it increases employability by making teachers more attractive to language schools and educational institutions worldwide. Many employers prefer...  [Read more]

Classroom management is a crucial aspect of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) as it sets the tone for the learning environment. Effective classroom management creates a conducive atmosphere for learning, promotes student engagement, and helps maintain discipline. As a TEFL teacher, having a well-managed classroom ensures that students can focus on the lesson content and participate actively in activities. There are several strategies that TEFL teachers can utilize to manage their classrooms effectively. Establishing clear expectations and rules from the beginning is essential. Consistency in enforcing these rules helps create a sense of structure and discipline. Using positive reinforcement techniques such as praise and rewards can motivate students to behave well and stay...  [Read more]

When building a strong resume as a TEFL teacher, it's crucial to understand the specific requirements and expectations of this field. Employers in the TEFL industry look for candidates who not only have a strong grasp of the English language but also possess the necessary qualifications and experience to excel in teaching English as a foreign language. Your resume should showcase your proficiency in English, your TEFL certification, your teaching experience, and any additional skills that set you apart as a qualified TEFL teacher. To create a compelling TEFL resume, it's essential to structure it in a way that highlights your qualifications and experience effectively. Start with a clear and concise summary that outlines your TEFL certification, teaching experience, and key skills. Follow...  [Read more]

To stay motivated as a TEFL teacher, it is essential to set clear goals and objectives for yourself. These goals can be short-term, such as improving a specific teaching skill, or long-term, such as advancing your career in the field of English language teaching. By having a clear sense of direction, you can stay focused and motivated to work towards achieving your goals. Additionally, setting goals allows you to track your progress and celebrate your accomplishments along the way, which can further boost your motivation. Continuing to learn and grow as a TEFL teacher is key to staying motivated in your role. Engage with professional development opportunities such as workshops, conferences, webinars, and online courses to enhance your teaching skills and stay up-to-date with the latest...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can expect to earn varying salaries depending on the country they work in and their level of experience. On average, TEFL teachers can earn anywhere from $1,200 to $4,000 per month. In countries with a lower cost of living, such as Thailand or Vietnam, salaries may be on the lower end of the spectrum. On the other hand, in countries like Japan or South Korea, where the demand for English teachers is high, salaries can be more competitive. Several factors can influence the salary of a TEFL teacher. The level of education and certification can play a significant role in determining one's earning potential. Teachers with a bachelor's degree or a TEFL certification tend to earn higher salaries than those without. Additionally, the location of the job can impact earnings, with...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The CEO of a multi-million-dollar company I worked for once told me, "Change or change will change you." This motto has stuck with me since the day I heard him say it. It's part of the reason why I decided that I want to be a teacher. I know it's going to bring me out of my comfort zone and force me to do things that I otherwise would never do. A teacher can never stop learning; one has to constantly improve. Otherwise, what's the point? Some of the most important ways to ensure that one improves as a teacher are to self-analyze and reflect. It's fine to use these tactics at one's own pace and discretion, but they are of utmost importance. Revision and Goals Challenges Analysis Saving Good Ideas for Future Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for your overall well-being and job satisfaction. One of the key strategies for achieving this balance is effective time management. By prioritizing tasks, setting goals, and avoiding procrastination, you can create a more structured schedule that allows for both work and personal time. Another important aspect of maintaining work-life balance as a TEFL teacher is setting boundaries. This includes establishing clear communication with students and colleagues about your availability outside of work hours, as well as learning to say no to additional responsibilities that may encroach on your personal time. Self-care practices are also essential for preventing burnout and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This includes...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, building a strong professional network is essential for career growth and development. Networking allows you to connect with other educators, potential employers, and industry experts, providing you with valuable opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and job prospects. By cultivating relationships within the TEFL community, you can stay updated on industry trends, exchange teaching resources, and gain insights from experienced professionals. There are several effective ways to build a strong professional network as a TEFL teacher. Attending conferences, workshops, and seminars related to English language teaching is a great way to meet like-minded professionals and expand your network. Joining professional organizations such as TESOL International...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to recognize and appreciate the diversity present in your multilingual classroom. Students come from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives to the learning environment. Understanding this diversity is the first step in effectively managing a multilingual classroom. Take the time to get to know your students individually, learn about their languages, and show respect for their cultural identities. By acknowledging and valuing this diversity, you create a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all learners. To effectively manage a multilingual classroom, it is essential to create an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and respected. Encourage collaboration and peer...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, having a strong support network is crucial for your personal and professional well-being. Teaching English as a foreign language can be both rewarding and challenging, and having a group of people who understand your unique experiences can make a significant difference in your success and job satisfaction. A support network can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community, helping you navigate the ups and downs of teaching in a foreign country. Building a support network as a TEFL teacher involves reaching out to various individuals and groups who can offer different types of support. Start by connecting with fellow teachers at your school or in your community. Joining professional organizations, attending conferences, and participating in online...  [Read more]