How Was Hanukkah Celebrated

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas My interest in ESL began without the intention of becoming an ESL instructor in the first place. It was mostly born out of curiosity and interest in relocating to a foreign country which at the time (2009) was China. At the time I had been deeply contemplating a career living abroad. The contemplation came more from a cultural motivation than from a financial or career-minded motivation. Throughout my childhood and beyond, my parents were both avid travelers. Both my Mother and Father had spent considerable periods traveling in Asia, East Asia and Central Asia in particular. Parental Supervision Real Inspiration Chinese Experience Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification...  [Read more]

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]

  Recognizing Progress and Effort Creating a Positive Learning Environment Encouraging Peer Support and Collaboration Tailoring Feedback to Individual Needs Incorporating Interactive Learning Activities Fostering a Growth Mindset Cultivating Cultural Awareness Promoting Language Immersion Experiences Providing Opportunities for Public Speaking Empowering Students to Become Global Citizens Celebrating student achievements goes beyond just acknowledging the end result. It involves recognizing the progress and effort that students put into their learning journey. By highlighting the incremental improvements and hard work of each student, teachers can motivate them to continue striving for success. ITTT, as a leading TEFL and TESOL provider worldwide, emphasizes the importance of...  [Read more]

One effective way to promote language awareness in TEFL lessons is by integrating activities that focus on language structure, vocabulary, and usage. This can be achieved through exercises that highlight the similarities and differences between the learners' native language and English. By drawing attention to these aspects, students become more conscious of language patterns and are better able to grasp the nuances of English. Additionally, incorporating discussions on language history and evolution can provide valuable insights into how languages develop and change over time. This not only enhances language awareness but also fosters a deeper appreciation for linguistic diversity. In order to promote linguistic diversity in TEFL classes, it is essential to create a supportive and...  [Read more]

  Understanding the Need for Change Developing a Change Management Plan Communicating Change Effectively Training and Development for Staff Implementing Changes in Phases Monitoring Progress and Feedback Mechanisms Assessing the Impact of Changes Addressing Resistance and Challenges Celebrating Success and Acknowledging Efforts Continuous Improvement and Future Planning Before implementing any changes, it is crucial to understand the reasons behind them. Whether it is to improve efficiency, address challenges, or adapt to new trends, a clear understanding of the need for change is essential. ITTT, as a leading provider of TEFL and TESOL courses, emphasizes the importance of identifying specific areas that require improvement in ESL teaching practices. Before implementing any changes,...  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to recognize and understand the cultural diversity present in your classroom. Students from different cultural backgrounds bring a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and perspectives that can enrich the learning environment. By being aware of cultural differences, you can create a more inclusive and respectful classroom atmosphere. It is crucial to avoid stereotypes and generalizations while acknowledging the uniqueness of each student's cultural identity. Encouraging students to share their customs, traditions, and beliefs can foster mutual respect and understanding among classmates. To effectively manage a multicultural classroom, it is vital to implement inclusive teaching methods that cater to diverse learning styles and preferences. Utilize a variety...  [Read more]

Understanding the diverse needs of students in a multicultural English classroom is essential for effective teaching. By adapting teaching styles to accommodate different learning preferences, educators can create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment. In this guide, we will explore various strategies and approaches that teachers can use to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by multicultural classrooms. From incorporating diverse perspectives in curriculum design to utilizing technology for interactive learning, we will discuss practical tips for promoting cultural awareness and fostering academic success for all students. 1. Importance of Cultural Diversity in Education 2. Adapting Curriculum to Reflect Diversity 3. Utilizing Multisensory Teaching...  [Read more]

  The Value of Non-Native English Speaking Teachers in TESOL Overcoming Challenges as a Non-Native English Speaking Teacher Embracing Diversity in the TESOL Classroom Enhancing Cultural Understanding through Non-Native English Teachers The Impact of Non-Native English Teachers on Student Learning Breaking Language Barriers in TESOL with Non-Native English Teachers Advantages of Hiring Non-Native English Speaking Teachers in TESOL Promoting Inclusivity and Equality in TESOL Education Empowering Non-Native English Speaking Teachers in the TESOL Field Celebrating Success Stories of Non-Native English Speaking TESOL Educators Non-native English speaking teachers bring a unique perspective to the TESOL field, offering insights into language learning that native speakers may not possess....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas There are many goals for English as a second language teacher (ESL). The teacher must inform and evaluate student abilities to competently produce written and verbal communication in the English language. Ultimately, one of the most important goals for the teacher to achieve is a reduction in their own talk time and an increase in student talk time (STT), using the target language. Creating a positive classroom environment is essential in generating students that have high levels of productivity. This environment is established well by building rapport and engaging the students. Having varied course materials incorporated in each lesson will help to maintain engagement for the learner and with enough diversity and fun in the activities, rapport should...  [Read more]

  Understanding Differentiated Instruction Importance of Assessing Student Progress Strategies for Assessing Student Progress Formative Assessment Techniques Summative Assessment Techniques Using Technology for Assessment Individualized Assessment Plans Monitoring Student Growth and Development Providing Feedback and Support Celebrating Student Success Differentiated instruction is a teaching approach that considers the diverse learning needs of students. ITTT is a leading provider of TEFL and TESOL courses worldwide, emphasizing the importance of adapting teaching methods to cater to individual student abilities and interests. By recognizing that students learn in various ways, educators can create a supportive learning environment that promotes academic growth. Differentiated...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Reading is one of the key elements for all English learners. By reading authentic stories and books, not only do we learn reading and understanding the text we are working with, but we also expand our vocabulary by discovering new authentic words you wouldn't be able to find in your course books, and more importantly, you can see it in context which makes it easier to remember and use those words and structures in the future. Younger Students Teens and Adults Resources Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Julia P. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. It's important to know which stories to choose...  [Read more]

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]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Are there alternatives to punishment? In this essay, we will explore what punishment sought to achieve within a classroom environment versus its applicability when seeking alternatives. Particular attention will be placed on measures that teachers may promote to achieve a class-culture that favors deterrence above sanction. What is punishment? Should teachers avoid it? Motivation Respect and Authority Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Aaron T. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Before we can understand what punishment promotes and if possible alternatives are available, we must first know what...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Every teacher needs a confidence boost, whether they are new or experience doesn't matter. It all depends on oneself to constantly develop and nurture one's level of self-confidence in the classroom because being confident in teaching is crucial as this is something transmittable. Your students always reflect your confidence level and this might affect their way of absorbing the language taught in the classroom. 1. Prepare before Teaching 2. Don't be a Perfectionist 3. Accept your mistakes 4. Realize your strengths 5. Set your own classroom rules 6. Clothing and Body Language Are you ready to teach English abroad? Listen to this blog post Related Articles: If a teacher is confident in what they're doing, so are the students and...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT Alumni Experiences Technology these days is evolving at a massive pace. As a product is released into the market, newer versions or updates follow almost simultaneously, making previous versions obsolete. Back when I was in school, the only technology we had was the basic computer, calculators, VCR players and slide projectors. In a few years, technology allowed us to learn through apps on our smartphones, compact and more user-friendly laptops, tablets, and so on. Artificial Intelligence Mixed Reality Quantum Computing Learn how to put technology to use in your classroom with a TEFL course! Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lindsay S. Computer-aided-learning is vastly used across the three C's - curricula,...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Keeping students motivated to learn can be one of the biggest challenges a teacher may face. Without motivation, the students can become bored and complacent; they may even start to act out and disrupt the class. A few ways a teacher can keep their students motivated are by participating in games and physical activity, reward, and praise, and having a good attitude as a teacher. 1. Use Games and Activities 2. Praise and Reward 3. Have a Positive Attitude Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Victoria O. Also read: Top Online Lesson Plan Resources for New and Advanced Teachers Games and activities are a good source of motivation because they are fun....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In the Chinese area, English as a compulsory course in school has to be learned by students for years. Since the government has strengthened the importance of English in Gaokao (College Entrance Examination ) these days, every Chinese family wants their children to start on English learning as early as possible. There is no need to highlight the importance of English to a Chinese family at all. Bilingual daily life Create English surroundings Apply for online English course Find a foreign teacher Be a good example Regular reading Communicate with teachers Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Xiaoyu Z. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences The seating arrangement is one of the most important topics in classroom management. Classroom management refers to the various skills and techniques that teachers use to keep students organized, orderly, focused, attentive, on task and academically productive during the class. However, this essay is going to explore more on the various methods of seating arrangement and how they influence classroom management. There are three most common seating arrangement methods that can be used by the teacher. These include the traditional rows and columns, horseshoe or U-shape and clusters. These are going to be explained in detail outlining their advantages and disadvantages in relation to the classroom size and shape, student age and size, distractions as well...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Without a doubt, English is the most popular second language around the globe. It has served as a bridge of communication in the rise of globalization. Business English has found its way in the global business market and has also worked its way up to the digital age with all of the technological advancements available. Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Clarence A. There has been a significant increase of non-native English speakers using the English language as a specific tool in competing inside the international market. It has turned into the universal language for business and can unite people from various cultural backgrounds for them to discuss...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Many texts on this subject begin primarily by defining the term 'classroom management'. I equally think it is not out of place to begin a discussion on classroom management from the same perspective. Classroom management refers to the variety of skills employed by which teachers and schools to curtail disruptive behavior of learners so as to create a congenial environment for teaching and learning. It is the case from the definition that the classroom setting may not always be as well-ordered and peaceful for teaching and learning as it should be and may require certain organizational skills and the ability to create of a friendly and disciplined atmosphere in order for teaching and learning to be effective. In every class there are different kinds of...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Throughout one's schooling, it is not uncommon to come across that particular teacher that resolves every type of altercation, or moment of class disturbance, with excessive shouting and loss of temper. Although these are the teachers we tend to recall the most when we are swapping stories with friends of our bygone school days, I feel that the number of "louder", "loss-of-temper-type" teachers, however, is heavily outweighed by the number of easier going, mild-tempered teachers. Generally, teachers tend to have an understanding of younger learners' behaviors and therefore occasional bouts in student behavior are expected and dealt with methodically and effectively. Explaining the reasons and consequences My solution of the problem Empathic approach...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is a worksheet to learn facts about Halloween. It is a reading task and there also are some activities to check the pupils' reading comprehension. The students also can learn about the origins of Halloween and how the Ancient Celtics used to celebrate it.   Here are the exercises for after the reading:   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Intelligence has been defined in many ways, including the capacity for logic, understanding, self-awareness, learning, emotional knowledge, reasoning, planning, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. More generally, it can be described as the ability to perceive or infer information and to retain it as knowledge to be applied towards adaptive behaviors within an environment or context (Wikipedia, 2019). Considering Language Habits Iconic Approach to Teaching Why Slang? Verb First Clauses Usually Play one of Three Roles: Teaching Slang and Idioms Incorporating Idioms and Slang into English language Teaching Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences We must up our game as ESL teachers in the 21st century – both figuratively and literally. I use games to engage students and promote learning in my classroom for a wide range of learning objectives. Below is a short list of icebreaker games that I regularly use in my classroom, and I will discuss the learning target(s) that each game aims to facilitate and deliver as well as the context in which the game is used. Since I work with high school age and adult students, the games are geared for English Language Learners in these age groups. As learning communities become more globalized and data give more information on how people learn, one major challenge I find with gamifying learning in the ESL classroom is making the games that I use more...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences This blog post was written by recent ITTT graduate Kaitlin F., who shares her 10 years of teaching experience with us talking about the many different jobs in the English education field she was fortunate to work in. What is an educator? "I often dealt with preschool children who made my experience memorable and from there my passion to teach continued" "Every day I would receive a call not knowing what to expect when I walked into a school" "My experience while being a paraprofessional has let me become a more knowledgeable person in order to cater to students needs." "I received an opportunity to teach as an education instructor at my neighborhoods local zoo." Are you ready to teach English? Listen to this blog post Related Articles: This post was...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Intrinsic motivation is the type of motivation that comes from within a person. An intrinsically motivated student who is highly motivated will always, all things being equal, outperform the less motivated one. These are the students who simply enjoy what they are doing. They just like learning English. Create a learning environment Have an upbeat, positive attitude Increase verbal communication Praise consistently Group activities are key Encourage classroom conversation Create a fun class Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Scott C. It is the task of the English teacher to create an environment in the classroom which will maximize the opportunity to...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Today's classroom is a global entity and unless appropriately addressed, issues of cultural diversity have the potential to severely diminish the success of even the most dedicated teachers and promising students. In order to promote an atmosphere that enables all students to be successful in learning English in the ESL (English as a Second Language) classroom, it is critical that each student feels safe, respected and appreciated. In today's diverse and multi-cultural climate, this sensitivity has never been more important. Creating An Environment To Promote Cultural Sensitivity Showing interest in your students' cultures Creating culturally diverse lesson plans Demonstrating your cultural understanding and acting accordingly It's the...  [Read more]

  The four-week in-class TEFL course in Corinth was a great experience for these three TEFL graduates. They learned how to effectively teach English to non-native speakers of different ages. Moreover, they have learned how to create and executed lesson plans in a professional manner to suit the needs of their students. They enjoyed staying in Corinth and are ready to start their careers in teaching English overseas. With their internationally recognized certificate, they can apply for teaching positions all over the world. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences As you all know, these days, English plays a vital role in life for many good reasons. As English is an international language, it enables learners to get a well-paid job and gives great opportunities to travel all over the world. Moreover, they can gain a scholarship to study abroad. If you are good at English, you will be more confident. It is really important in our lives. If you are good at English, you will. Firstly, one of the best qualities of a good teacher is energy. Secondly, a good teacher should be patient. Thirdly, be an enthusiastic teacher. Last but not least, great teachers are prepared and organized. Do you want to teach English abroad or online? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas When teaching English as a second language, one can find a variety of pre-made resources. From tried-and-true textbooks to authentic sources, an instructor can find a readily available structure for most lessons. However, to fully cater to one's students and their specific needs, a teacher must creatively produce relevant supplemental materials.For instance, one may encounter a broad range of information covered within a textbook; whether it be vocabulary or grammar, most English books offer a generalized base for students. Sometimes the reader may have insufficient explanations on grammar practices, or perhaps the students request more relevant vocabulary to add depth to the lesson. The instructor should aspire to...  [Read more]