How Do I Teach

Kevin Cullen is the Managing Director at Vantage Siam, an authorized Cambridge English Exam Centre and the leading TEFL course provider in Thailand. We offer English language teaching, training and tests to Thai schools and universities, blue-chip Thai companies andTEFL candidates from around the world. Kevin Cullen Budget and Salary How much money do you really need to get your career in teaching English abroad going? This TEFL budget guide offers all the answers to your questions!  [Read more]

Yes, you do not necessarily need previous experience to teach English online. However, having certain qualifications and skills can greatly enhance your teaching abilities and opportunities. Here are some key points to consider: Qualifications required to teach English online: To teach English online effectively, certain qualifications are typically required. These qualifications ensure that teachers have the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver quality education to students in a virtual setting. Here are the common qualifications needed to teach English online: Yes, training is available for teaching English online, and it is essential for teachers to be adequately prepared to deliver effective online lessons. Online English teaching training programs typically cover a range of...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas When using the ESA methodology, there are a number of lesson formats available. In the third of this series we look at a Patchwork lesson. What does a Patchwork lesson look like and for what level of student is it most appropriate? Watch the video about this topic Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! Lesson aim: For the students to be able to discuss holidays using vocabulary and conducting a role-play.Student Level: Intermediate (Due to the complexity of Patchwork lessons they should only be used for Intermediate level and above) We start by reminding ourselves of the form of a Patchwork ESA lesson. We start with an engage as always and...  [Read more]

Teaching English pronunciation to total beginners can be a challenging but rewarding task. Here are some effective strategies to help you succeed: To help total beginners improve their English pronunciation skills, you can follow these effective strategies: Yes, there are various resources and tools that can be helpful for teaching English pronunciation to beginners.  [Read more]

Teaching English grammar to complete beginners requires a structured approach to ensure understanding and retention: To make learning English grammar engaging for complete beginners, you can incorporate a variety of interactive and fun activities to keep them motivated and interested. Here are some effective strategies to make the learning process enjoyable:  [Read more]

If you plan to teach in your home country or you are yet to decide on a location, taking an online TEFL course might be a good way to start as it offers a flexible and convenient route towards certification. How does an online TEFL course work? How does an in-class TEFL course work? How does a combined TEFL course work? How will I receive my TEFL certification? If you have a specific destination for teaching in mind it is often best to head there or to a nearby location to complete an in-class TEFL course. Following this path will allow you to find a suitable job in your preferred area and you will be more than ready to start teaching as soon as your course is complete. The third option is a combined TEFL course that tackles all the theory of teaching online and then concludes with a...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching English as a second language is an exciting experience! You'll get to learn a new culture, travel a new area, and possibly even learn a new language! But finding an up-to-par school, living arrangements, and learning how to live in a new environment can be difficult. It's a lot and can be a bit overwhelming. Your classroom may be the last thing on your mind at this time, but teaching a chaotic and unorganized class is a recipe for having a bad time. This is why classroom management is so important and especially important from the very beginning. This brings up the question, how do I effectively manage my classroom? Rules Planning Attitude and Personality Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was...  [Read more]

Teaching English without knowing your student's language is possible through various techniques and strategies. To effectively communicate with English language learners who don't speak your language, you can use the following strategies: Yes, there are specialized techniques and resources available for teaching English to students with different first languages. These techniques and resources are designed to address the unique challenges that learners from diverse language backgrounds may face when acquiring English as a second language. Here are some strategies and resources commonly used in teaching English to students with different first languages:  [Read more]

No, you do not have to be a native English speaker to teach EFL. Many non-native English speakers have successfully pursued careers in teaching English as a foreign language. Here are some key points to consider: To teach EFL (English as a Foreign Language), you typically need the following qualifications: Non-native English speakers can bring unique advantages to the EFL classroom: Non-native English speakers may face several challenges when teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL), including:  [Read more]

When teaching English to non-native speakers, it is crucial to understand your students' needs and backgrounds. Take the time to assess their language proficiency levels, learning styles, cultural differences, and motivations for learning English. This information will help you tailor your lessons to meet their specific needs and create a supportive learning environment. Additionally, being aware of common challenges faced by non-native speakers can guide you in providing appropriate support and resources to help them overcome language barriers. Engaging lesson plans are essential for keeping non-native speakers motivated and interested in learning English. Incorporate a variety of activities such as role-plays, group discussions, games, and multimedia resources to cater to different...  [Read more]

It is essential to understand that your scheduled teaching hours (referred to as contact hours) won't equate to the total time you are expected to spend at school (known as contract hours). Besides teaching, many jobs involve administrative duties. Moreover, the nature of the English teaching job you opt for will determine your classroom hours. Let's consider three typical job types. Government and Private Schools Corporate Teaching Private Language Schools Some Cultural Aspects In most instances, overseas schools operate regular office hours. You will likely be expected at the school from Monday to Friday, around 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - approximately 40 hours per week. However, your actual teaching might be limited to 20-25 hours weekly, with the remaining time dedicated to lesson...  [Read more]

Before we look at this question closely, we should first make an important distinction. The number of hours you teach in the classroom (often called contact hours) are not the same as the number of hours you will be expected to be in school, often confusingly called contract hours. Next, it is important to appreciate that different teaching jobs have different typical hours. There are basically three types of jobs available. Government and Private Schools Corporate Teaching Private Language Schools Some Cultural Aspects Most schools abroad work normal office hours so you will probably need to be in school, Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. (in many Asian countries) until 4:00 p.m. This equates to around 40 hours per week. You will not have to teach for all of those hours but a typical...  [Read more]

Yes, you do not have to be a native English speaker to teach English in Dubai. However, there are certain requirements and qualifications that you will need to meet in order to teach English in Dubai as a non-native speaker. Here are some key points to consider: Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency, usually by providing proof of a recognized language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL. Educational Qualifications: You will typically need a bachelor's degree in English, Education, or a related field. Some employers may also require a TEFL/TESOL certification. TEFL/TESOL Certification: Obtaining a TEFL or TESOL certification is highly recommended for non-native English speakers looking to teach English in Dubai. This...  [Read more]

To apply for TEFL jobs worldwide, start by ensuring you possess an internationally-accredited TEFL certificate. This certification is a key criterion for securing English teaching positions, both abroad and online. While navigating through job opportunities, from urban hubs to serene beach resorts, previous teaching or volunteer engagements can provide a competitive edge. Although requirements can differ based on regional demands, a strategic approach to job hunting combined with the right credentials can pave the way to your ideal TEFL teaching position. How do I apply for TEFL jobs online? What are the pros and cons of applying for TEFL jobs online? What are the pros and cons of using a TEFL recruitment company? What about national TEFL recruitment programs? What are the pros...  [Read more]

There are a number of EFL teaching scenarios that involve tutoring. The most obvious is that of one-to-one teaching. This can take place in a school, a language center, at a business or privately. Regardless of the teaching scenario, the route to becoming a TEFL tutor is basically the same as becoming a TEFL teacher. In general there are three ways to gain the certification required to become a TEFL tutor. They all involve a course with a minimum of 120 hours of training. Online TEFL certification Onsite TEFL certification Combined TEFL certification This can be done from anywhere in the world with a computer and an internet connection. Typical 120-hour courses give you up to six months to complete the course, working at your own pace. These courses will cover the main aspects of EFL...  [Read more]

It is crucial, especially when applying for teaching positions in countries like China or Vietnam or with specific online teaching platforms, to ensure your TEFL certificate's authenticity. Typically, recognized TEFL organizations provide a unique identification number on the certificate, which can be cross-referenced on the organization's official website or through direct communication with the issuing institution. Why do I need to verify my TEFL certificate? How do I verify my ITTT TEFL certificate? Will I also need certificate notarization? Due to historical ambiguities in legal requirements for English teaching, many teachers entered the field without accredited TEFL certifications. However, with current stringent regulations, countries and employers often mandate certificate...  [Read more]

To become an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher, you typically need to follow these steps: Earn a bachelor's degree: Most schools and employers require ESL teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree in education, English, or a related field. Obtain TEFL/TESOL certification: Completing a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification program is often necessary to teach English to non-native speakers. These programs provide essential training in language teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and more. Gain teaching experience: Many ESL teaching positions require some teaching experience. You can gain experience through volunteer work, internships, or teaching English abroad. Consider...  [Read more]

After completing a TEFL certification course and working as an English language teacher, some people look to branch out into other avenues of the teaching profession in order to gain more experience or to earn a higher salary. One such route is to become a TEFL trainer. Teaching people to become classroom teachers can be a very rewarding and well paid job and a route into management positions or even setting up your own language school. What are the basic requirements for becoming a TEFL trainer? What are the characteristics of a TEFL trainer? Do I need advanced qualifications to become a TEFL trainer? How important is classroom experience for a TEFL trainer? Where can I work as a TEFL trainer? Who are the main employers of TEFL trainers? The first and most obvious requirement is to...  [Read more]

To verify an ITTT certificate, you can follow these steps: Check the certificate authenticity: Ensure that the certificate you have received includes the following elements: To check the authenticity of an online TEFL certificate, you can follow these steps: When verifying a TEFL certificate, you should look for the following information: Yes, there are online databases available where you can verify a TEFL certificate. These online databases serve as platforms where employers or institutions can check the authenticity of a TEFL certificate provided by a candidate. Here are some key points to consider when verifying a TEFL certificate online:  [Read more]

To apply for the Teaching English as a Foreign Language Program (TFETP), follow these steps: The eligibility requirements for the TFETP (Teaching Foreign English Teachers Program) application vary depending on the specific program and institution offering it. However, there are common criteria that are typically required: When applying for the TFETP (Teaching English as a Foreign Language Program), you will typically need to submit the following documents: Yes, there is typically a deadline for submitting the TFETP (Teaching English as a Foreign Language Program) application. The deadline is set by the program provider and varies depending on the specific course or program you are applying for. It is important to check the application deadline on the program's official website or contact...  [Read more]

Online TEFL / TESOL certification. registered you can begin the course straight away. We will send you an email containing all you need to get your studies underway, including your personal login details for our online TEFL /TESOL training platform. Once signed in to the platform you will have access to all the materials required to complete the first unit of the course. When you feel you have absorbed the information sufficiently you can then take an automated online test based on the materials for that first unit. The test is a short, multiple-choice assessment that is designed to test your understanding of the unit before you move onto the next part of the course. To pass the course you will need to achieve a grade of at least 75% across all the unit tests as a whole. After working...  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL certification course, it is essential to identify courses that adhere to or surpass international benchmarks, typically comprising at least 100 hours of coursework and six hours of practical experience. Ensure the course is externally accredited. Given the diverse options on the market, opt for established TEFL providers known for their high-quality training. Additionally, consider courses that provide robust job assistance, paving the way for a fruitful EFL teaching career abroad. What should I look for when choosing a TEFL course? How long should an online TEFL course be? What are the benefits of an in-class TEFL course? What are the key points to consider when choosing a TEFL course? The overall length of the course is a good place to start. There are...  [Read more]

Kevin Cullen Budget and Salary How much money do I need? Determine your costs to get TEFL certified and your running costs until you get your first teaching paycheck. Estimating your Total Expenses A Three Month Plan Your TELF Budget Planner Spreadsheet Just Add Airfare How to Get Started Another Consideration in Your TEFL Course Investment Are you ready to teach abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post The TEFL Budget Planner is a tool to estimate your total costs to become TEFL certified and then begin working as a teacher. Its spread out over three months as that's a conservative plan to complete your one-month in-class TEFL course, interview and secure a position, begin teaching and final get your first paycheck at the end of your initial month. As most all schools pay at...  [Read more]

Before delving into the specifics of conducting one-to-one lessons, we need to be mindful of certain preliminary steps essential for effective lesson planning. Initially, you must assess your student's English proficiency level. This is usually achieved through a level test. The level test typically begins with a verbal conversation to gauge the general competency level of the student. English proficiency is often categorized on a five-point scale: A basic level test could involve asking progressively complex questions to pinpoint the level at which the student begins to struggle. Once the level test is completed, the next step is a needs analysis. This process aims to ascertain why the student is learning English, as needs will vary among learners. Younger students might seek to enhance...  [Read more]

The global demand for English language teachers presents vast opportunities. Here is a step-by-step guide to embarking on this journey: While a degree and prior teaching experience isn't always mandatory, comprehensive research and careful planning are crucial to navigating and thriving in the international teaching arena. Is it difficult to teach English in another country? How do I go about becoming an English teacher in another country? Enroll in a TEFL certification course and become a TEFL certified teacher Do I need to decide where to teach before taking a TEFL course? How do I find a teaching job after completing my TEFL course? Embarking on an international teaching journey can indeed have its hurdles, especially when adapting to new cultural contexts. However, a TEFL...  [Read more]

Throughout our schooling, we have likely encountered several teachers who, despite their profession, seemed mismatched for the role. Some might have resorted to strict penalties for minor mistakes, others may have been tediously boring or simply failed to heed their students' feedback. Nonetheless, we usually also recall those teachers who positively impacted our learning journey. So, what makes these educators stand out? We believe that a combination of certain traits and skills contribute to a teacher being remembered for the right reasons. By incorporating these characteristics, you are likely to be remembered as an exceptional English teacher by your future students. Communication Passion Patience Organization Adaptability Confidence Of all the qualities listed, communication arguably...  [Read more]

To apply for TEFL jobs online, you can follow these steps: The best websites to find TEFL job listings online are: Common requirements for applying to TEFL jobs online: To stand out in your online TEFL job applications, you can:  [Read more]

To verify your ITTT TEFL certificate, follow these steps: It typically takes around 1-2 business days to verify an ITTT TEFL certificate. Verification of a TEFL certificate is an important process that ensures the authenticity and legitimacy of the document. Here are some key points to consider: To verify your ITTT TEFL certificate, you will typically need to provide specific information to the verifying party. Here are the common details required for certificate verification: Yes, there is a fee for verifying an ITTT TEFL certificate. Verifying a TEFL certificate is a common requirement for employers to ensure the authenticity of the qualification. While the exact process and fee may vary depending on the institution issuing the certificate, here are some general points to consider:  [Read more]

You can pay for your TEFL course using various methods depending on the institution providing the training. Here are some common ways to make payment for a TEFL course: Accepted payment methods for TEFL courses may vary depending on the institution or provider, but commonly include: Yes, many TEFL course providers offer installment payment options to make the course more accessible to a wider range of students. When considering installment payment options for TEFL courses, it is essential to keep the following points in mind: Yes, there is usually a deadline for payment for a TEFL course, but the specific deadline can vary depending on the course provider. Here are some common practices regarding deadlines for payment:  [Read more]

To apply for the TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France), you need to follow a specific process: The eligibility requirements for the Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF) are as follows: To apply for the TAPIF Program, you will need to prepare the following documents: Yes, you can indicate your preferred location for the TAPIF Program, but final placement is not guaranteed. The Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF) allows English speakers to teach English in schools across France. Here are some key points to consider regarding location selection for the TAPIF Program:  [Read more]