Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
How Mandarin Chinese Helps Me in Teaching English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Foreign language experience is complexed on so many different levels, it is a window into a different culture, often a different country and even a different paradigm of thinking. There is a multitude of language experiences people can have, each with their own intricacies and uniqueness. As a native English speaker from South Africa, living in China has provided me with extraordinary foreign language experience.
The Most Difficult Language
Benefits of Mandarin Experience
Do you want to teach English in China?
Related Articles:
Listen to this blog post:
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Marlan S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Mandarin, the national language of... [Read more]
Telephone Numbers in English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
How do you say telephone numbers in English correctly? This infographic looks at how to say the number 0, how to say consecutive numbers, and the difference between mobile phone and cell phone.
3964-8574
This is a telephone number.
In spoken English, we normally say phone number instead of telephone number.
In English, we give telephone numbers by saying each individual number in it:
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
[Read more]
How Learning Chinese Made Me A Better English Teacher In China - TEFL Blog
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]
How do you bring language to life in the classroom? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
When teaching in the classroom, it is very important to branch away from the traditional method of teaching, known as the "chalk and talk" method. This typically involves the teacher dictating the lesson, with students sat listening and writing down the words of the teacher. Not every student is programmed to be able to sit, listen intently to every word you say, write down everything important and absorb the information sufficiently to be able to go on and use the language in a productive way.
Differentiate classroom activities
Help to memorize language points in an unusual way
Give more freedom even when you are teaching grammar
Mind your students' language level
Do you want to learn new teaching skills right now? Take your TEFL course!
Related... [Read more]
What are the most in-demand languages for TEFL teachers to teach? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher, you may wonder which languages are the most sought after by students. English is, of course, the most popular language to teach as a TEFL teacher. The demand for English teachers is high worldwide, especially in non-English speaking countries where English is a crucial skill for academic and professional success. Mandarin Chinese is another highly sought-after language. With China's growing influence in the global economy, there is a significant demand for Mandarin Chinese teachers. Spanish is also a popular language for TEFL teachers to teach, as it is the second most spoken language in the world and is widely used in many countries.
Teaching in-demand languages like English, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish can offer several advantages to TEFL teachers. Firstly, there is... [Read more]
The Correct Order of Adjectives in English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
When you use more than one adjective, you have to put them in the right order or it will sound very strange. Do you say, "I want a big black cat" or "I want a black big cat?" Let's take a look at infographic below.
So, do you say, "I want a big black cat" or "I want a black big cat?"
The first one is correct.
Why?
If "big" is size and "black" is color, then it should come first because size is number (2) and color is number (5) on the infographic above.
You can use this chart for all orders of adjectives. A quick and easy way is to always place the adjective that is easy to change first. Number 1 (Opinion) can be changed more easily than number 6 (Origin: where something is from). It is easy for me to change... [Read more]
How much do TEFL teachers make in Korea? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
TEFL teachers in South Korea typically earn salaries ranging from $1,600 to $2,700 USD monthly. Schools seeking to hire often offer above-average salaries to attract qualified teachers. South Korea is known for its excellent working conditions, modern facilities, and advanced infrastructure, making it a top destination for English teachers. Salary levels vary based on the type of school - public or private - and the teacher's experience, with experienced educators often commanding higher wages.
What are TEFL salaries in South Korea?
What other benefits can I expect when teaching English in South Korea?
How much can I save while teaching English in South Korea?
The actual figure you will see on your monthly payslip will depend on several things including the type of school you work in,... [Read more]
How do I become a TEFL teacher in the UK? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Becoming a TEFL teacher in the UK demands a combination of qualifications and experience. Firstly, you will require a bachelor's degree and a TEFL certification. Given the UK's stringent teaching standards, prior teaching experience is often essential to make your application competitive. For non-UK citizens, it is crucial to be aware of visa and work permit requirements before embarking on this career path in the UK.
What are the difficulties of teaching English in the UK?
How can I get a work permit to teach English in the UK?
Can I get a working holiday visa and teach English in the UK?
Can I earn a comfortable living teaching English in the UK?
What should I do if I can't find a job teaching English in the UK?
Teaching English in the UK presents unique challenges despite the evident... [Read more]
How do I go about becoming an English teacher in another country? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
To become an English teacher in another country, you will typically need to follow these steps: Earn a TEFL/TESOL Certification:
To teach English in another country, you typically need the following qualifications:
To obtain a work visa as an English teacher abroad, you typically need to meet certain requirements set by the country where you intend to work. While these requirements can vary depending on the destination country, some common criteria may include:
Yes, there are specific language proficiency tests that you may need to pass to teach English in another country. In many cases, countries and schools require English language teachers to demonstrate their proficiency in the language they will be teaching. The most common language proficiency tests include:
[Read more]
How do TEFL teachers utilize authentic materials in their teaching? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), authentic materials refer to resources that have not been specifically created for language learning purposes. These can include newspapers, magazines, advertisements, songs, movies, and more. Incorporating authentic materials into lessons can greatly enhance the learning experience for students by providing real-world context and exposure to natural language use.
There are several benefits to using authentic materials in TEFL. Firstly, they expose students to real language as it is used by native speakers, helping learners to develop their listening and reading skills in a more natural way. Authentic materials also provide cultural insights and help students understand the nuances of language use in different contexts. Additionally, using... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers navigate language barriers in the classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Language barriers are a common challenge faced by TEFL teachers when teaching students whose first language is different from the language being taught. These barriers can manifest in various forms, such as limited vocabulary, difficulty in understanding instructions, and challenges in expressing thoughts and ideas. It is essential for teachers to recognize that these barriers can impact students' learning experiences and academic performance. By understanding the root causes of these language barriers, teachers can implement effective strategies to support their students.
TEFL teachers can employ a variety of strategies to navigate language barriers in the classroom. One effective approach is to use visual aids such as pictures, diagrams, and gestures to help convey meaning. Simplifying... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers handle discipline issues in the classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Discipline is a crucial aspect of any classroom setting, including TEFL environments. It sets the tone for learning, ensures a safe and respectful atmosphere, and helps students stay focused and engaged. In TEFL classes, where students may come from diverse cultural backgrounds and have varying levels of English proficiency, effective discipline becomes even more vital. Without proper discipline, disruptions can hinder the learning process, leading to a less productive and enjoyable experience for both teachers and students.
Prevention is key when it comes to managing discipline issues in the TEFL classroom. Establishing clear expectations from the beginning, setting and consistently enforcing rules, and creating engaging and interactive lessons can help prevent many discipline problems... [Read more]
How to Optimize Your CV for a Virtual English Teacher Career in 2023 - TEFL Blog
Dorian Martin
TEFL Information Teaching Ideas
To become a successful virtual English teacher after completing your TEFL course of choice is a matter of presenting your skillset as viable for teaching online.
Outline your Qualifications, Competencies and Prior Experiences Properly
Do Background Research on the Platform you might Teach On
Formatting your CV Properly will make it Stand Out
Demonstrate That You're Up-To-Date on Current Trends
Attach a Supplemental Cover/Motivational Letter about Yourself
Use Keywords Related to Virtual English Teaching
Gather Testimonials, Reviews or Recommendations from Past Experiences
List of the Technology you have Available for Virtual Teaching
The Advantages of Optimizing your CV as a Virtual English Teacher in 2023
Summary
Are you ready to teach... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers assess student progress and proficiency in English? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Assessing student progress and proficiency in English is a crucial aspect of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). It allows teachers to track students' development, identify areas for improvement, and tailor their teaching methods accordingly. Assessments also provide students with feedback on their performance and help motivate them to continue learning. In TEFL, various methods and techniques are used to assess student progress and proficiency effectively.
There are several methods that TEFL teachers can use to assess student progress. One common method is formative assessment, which involves providing ongoing feedback to students during the learning process. This can include quizzes, homework assignments, class participation, and projects. Summative assessment, on the other... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers address behavior management challenges in the classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In a TEFL classroom, behavior management is crucial for creating a conducive learning environment. It is essential to understand that students from different cultural backgrounds may exhibit varying behaviors, which can sometimes be challenging for teachers. By recognizing the root causes of these behaviors, such as cultural differences, language barriers, or individual learning styles, teachers can effectively address and manage them. Developing cultural awareness and empathy towards students' backgrounds can help teachers navigate behavior management challenges more effectively.
There are various strategies that TEFL teachers can implement to address behavior management challenges in the classroom. These include setting clear expectations and rules from the beginning, establishing... [Read more]
How do I handle discipline issues in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Discipline in the TEFL classroom is crucial for creating a conducive learning environment. As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to understand that discipline is not just about punishment but also about teaching students appropriate behavior and fostering a positive learning atmosphere. It involves setting boundaries, maintaining order, and addressing behavioral issues promptly and effectively.
One of the key ways to handle discipline issues in the TEFL classroom is by establishing clear rules and expectations from the start. Clearly communicate these rules to your students, ensuring they understand the consequences of not following them. By setting clear guidelines, you provide a structure that helps prevent disciplinary problems before they arise.
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool... [Read more]
How do I address language barriers in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to recognize and address language barriers in the classroom to ensure effective communication and learning outcomes for all students. Language barriers can hinder students' understanding of the material, limit their participation in class activities, and impact their overall learning experience. By acknowledging and proactively tackling these barriers, you can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where all students feel valued and can fully engage in the learning process.
There are several strategies you can implement to help overcome language barriers in the classroom. Firstly, using visual aids such as pictures, diagrams, and videos can help convey meaning and facilitate comprehension, especially for students with limited language... [Read more]
How do I handle cultural differences in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to understand that cultural differences play a significant role in the classroom. Students from diverse cultural backgrounds bring unique perspectives, values, and communication styles to the learning environment. By recognizing and appreciating these differences, you can create a more inclusive and engaging classroom atmosphere. Understanding cultural nuances can also help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts among students.
To effectively handle cultural differences in the classroom, it is essential to create an inclusive environment where all students feel respected and valued. Encourage open discussions about cultural differences and promote mutual understanding among students. Use diverse teaching materials that reflect various cultures and... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers engage parents and families in the learning process? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Parental involvement in a student's education is crucial for their academic success, especially in the context of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). When parents are actively engaged in their child's learning process, students are more likely to succeed academically, have better attendance, and demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning. In TEFL, where students are learning a new language and navigating a different educational system, parental support can make a significant difference in the student's progress and overall experience.
There are various strategies that TEFL teachers can implement to effectively engage parents and families in the learning process. One approach is to establish open communication channels with parents from the beginning, such as through email... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers address cultural differences and misunderstandings in the classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In TEFL teaching, cultural awareness plays a crucial role in creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. Understanding and respecting students' cultural backgrounds can enhance communication, foster mutual respect, and promote effective learning. As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to recognize that students from diverse cultural backgrounds may have different learning styles, communication norms, and perspectives. By acknowledging and valuing these differences, teachers can create a more engaging and supportive classroom environment for all learners.
To address cultural differences in the classroom effectively, TEFL teachers can implement various strategies. One approach is to incorporate diverse cultural perspectives into the curriculum, such as using materials that reflect... [Read more]
How do I address individual learning styles in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to recognize that each student has a unique way of learning. Understanding different learning styles, such as visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing, can help you tailor your teaching methods to cater to the diverse needs of your students. Visual learners prefer visual aids like charts and diagrams, auditory learners learn best through listening and speaking activities, kinesthetic learners benefit from hands-on activities, and reading/writing learners excel through reading and writing tasks. By identifying the predominant learning styles in your classroom, you can adapt your lesson plans to accommodate and engage all students effectively.
To address individual learning styles in the classroom, it is essential to incorporate a variety of... [Read more]
How do I handle conflicts between students in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Conflicts between students in the classroom are common, and as a TEFL teacher, it is essential to understand the underlying reasons behind these disputes. Language barriers, cultural differences, personality clashes, and competition for attention or resources are some of the primary causes of conflicts. By recognizing these factors, you can address conflicts more effectively and create a harmonious learning environment.
Prevention is key when it comes to managing conflicts in the classroom. Establishing clear expectations, fostering open communication, promoting teamwork, and implementing conflict resolution strategies can help prevent conflicts from escalating. When conflicts do arise, it is crucial to remain neutral, listen to all parties involved, and facilitate constructive dialogue... [Read more]
How do I navigate cultural differences as a TEFL teacher in a foreign country? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher in a foreign country, it's crucial to understand and appreciate the cultural differences you may encounter. Every culture has its own values, norms, and communication styles that can significantly impact the way people learn and interact. By taking the time to learn about the local customs, traditions, and social norms, you can better navigate these differences and create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for your students.
To navigate cultural differences successfully, it's essential to build cultural awareness. This involves being open-minded, curious, and willing to learn about the culture of the country where you are teaching. Engage in cultural activities, try local foods, learn the language, and interact with locals to gain a deeper understanding... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers support students with limited English proficiency in mainstream classrooms? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Students with limited English proficiency require special attention and support in mainstream classrooms. As a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to understand their unique needs and challenges. These students may struggle to communicate effectively, comprehend instructions, or participate in class activities due to language barriers. It is essential to assess their language proficiency levels accurately to tailor your teaching strategies accordingly. By recognizing their individual needs, you can create a supportive learning environment that fosters their language development and overall academic success.
There are various effective strategies that TEFL teachers can employ to support students with limited English proficiency in mainstream classrooms. Implementing differentiated instruction... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers address individual learning needs and differences in the classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In a TEFL classroom, it is crucial for teachers to recognize and address the diverse learning needs of their students. Understanding that each learner is unique and may have different strengths, weaknesses, preferences, and learning styles is the first step in effectively catering to individual needs. Some students may excel in reading and writing but struggle with speaking and listening, while others may learn better through visual aids rather than auditory instruction. By conducting needs assessments, observing students, and building relationships with them, teachers can gain insights into how to tailor their teaching methods to suit individual learning needs.
Once teachers have identified the various learning needs in their classroom, they can implement a range of strategies to address... [Read more]
How do I address student motivation and engagement in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher, understanding student motivation is crucial for creating a successful learning environment. Motivation can be intrinsic or extrinsic, with intrinsic motivation stemming from personal interest or enjoyment in the learning process, and extrinsic motivation coming from external factors such as rewards or grades. By getting to know your students on a personal level and identifying their individual motivations, you can tailor your teaching approach to better engage them. Additionally, setting clear goals and providing regular feedback can help students stay motivated throughout their language learning journey.
To keep students engaged in the classroom, it's essential to incorporate a variety of interactive activities and teaching methods. Utilizing a mix of visual, auditory,... [Read more]
How do I address social and emotional learning in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which individuals acquire and apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to recognize the importance of addressing SEL in the classroom to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for students.
Incorporating SEL in the TEFL classroom can be seamlessly integrated into language learning activities. Start by promoting self-awareness and self-management skills by encouraging students to reflect on their emotions and reactions in various situations. Provide opportunities for students to practice social... [Read more]
How do I stay motivated and inspired as a TEFL teacher in a challenging environment? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher working in a challenging environment, it is essential to set realistic goals and expectations for yourself. Understand that you may face obstacles and setbacks, but by setting achievable goals, you can measure your progress and stay motivated. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep yourself inspired and focused on your journey as an educator.
Building a support system is crucial for staying motivated and inspired as a TEFL teacher. Connect with colleagues, both within your school and online, to share experiences, resources, and advice. Join professional organizations or attend conferences to network with other educators in the field. Having a support system can provide you with... [Read more]
How do I handle student goals and aspirations in the classroom as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
As a TEFL teacher, it is crucial to understand that each student comes to the classroom with unique goals and aspirations. Some students may be studying English for academic purposes, while others may be learning for career advancement or simply for personal enrichment. By taking the time to get to know your students individually and their reasons for learning English, you can tailor your teaching approach to better support their goals. Encouraging students to share their aspirations with you can also help them stay motivated and engaged in their language learning journey.
Once you have a clear understanding of your students' goals and aspirations, you can incorporate them into your lesson planning. This may involve selecting topics and activities that are relevant to their interests or... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers promote cross-cultural understanding and communication in their teaching practices? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In promoting cross-cultural understanding, TEFL teachers can integrate cultural content into their lessons. This can be achieved through incorporating cultural topics, traditions, and practices into language learning activities. By exposing students to different cultures, teachers can help them develop a broader perspective and understanding of the world. This can be done through cultural presentations, videos, music, and literature from various English-speaking countries. Such activities not only enhance language skills but also foster intercultural awareness and sensitivity.
TEFL teachers play a crucial role in encouraging intercultural communication among their students. They can create opportunities for students to interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds through group... [Read more]
