I Don't Speak Chinese In Chinese

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]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Self-confidence has been seen as a major contributor to a person learning a language. As a teacher and a counselor, I agree with Jack Welch's quote: Giving people self-confidence is by far the most important thing that I can do because then they will act. Confidence exists of three realms: who I am, what I can learn, and what I can do. These are steps that can be taken to help Chinese Business English students improve confidence in these realms. What is self-confidence? Who am I? What can I learn? What can I do? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate William N. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Language has always played an important role in communication between people. Today, in the globalization, the importance of mastering a foreign language has become increasingly prominent. English is the most widely used language in the world. English Status in China Reasons for Low Results in English Economical Challenges Differences in Two Languages Cultural Background Lack of Proper Study Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Xiao W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. In the 21st century, English is not unfamiliar to us Chinese. In our life, we can find English everywhere with little...  [Read more]

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

1. Benefits of Teaching English in Countries Where You Don't Speak the Local Language 2. Challenges of Teaching English in Countries Where You Don't Speak the Local Language 3. Strategies for Teaching English in Countries Where You Don't Speak the Local Language 4. Conclusion: Teaching English Successfully in Countries Where You Don't Speak the Local Language Benefits of Teaching English in Countries Where You Don't Speak the Local Language Teaching English in a country where you don't speak the local language can be a rewarding experience. It forces you to immerse yourself in the language you are teaching and helps you understand the challenges your students face when learning a new language. This can make you a more empathetic and effective teacher. Additionally, being in an environment...  [Read more]

Yes, it is possible to learn Chinese while teaching English abroad. While the main focus of teaching English abroad is on instructing students in the English language, many programs and schools offer opportunities for their teachers to learn the local language. Here are some common ways you can learn Chinese while teaching English abroad: Language classes: Some schools provide language classes for their teachers to learn the local language, including Chinese. These classes can be formal lessons or informal language exchanges with local colleagues or students. Cultural immersion: Living in a country where Chinese is spoken allows you to immerse yourself in the language and culture. Daily interactions with locals, such as shopping, dining out, or participating in community events, can help...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas China is one of the leading countries in the world that has been in the search and quest to learn the English language. In recent years the demand to learn English has been on a rise. Every school tries to have a teacher who can teach the language to the learners. However, in this process of learning, many learners encounter a series of problems which make the language learning process not an easy task both for teachers and students. However, we are going to be looking at very common problems students learning English as a foreign language face in China. First Language Lack of Interest Pronunciation Difficulties Ways to Solve The Abovementioned Problems 1. Speak English to Students Only 2. Work on Building Students' Confidence Do you want to teach...  [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]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences While attempting to actively assimilate into a foreign language environment overseas, it has been an ongoing journey and challenging adventure in these previous three years. There have been a few noted observations and insightful discoveries indeed. Life in China as a Teacher Language is a rich, colorful and multidimensional medium Practice Makes Perfect Teaching Business English Lack of Exposure and English Proficiency Having a lesson plan ready Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Angela W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Through living in a tier three city where English is not...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas As an aspirant teaching English to Chinese children, I chose 'Pronunciation problems of Chinese people' as the most attractive and the most useful topic for my summative task at this moment. So let's begin from the very beginning. The Second difficulty in pronunciation is so-called dark L or L's with no vowel sound after them. How can the teacher help students to correct this? Different Approaches Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: As resources of this joyful and useful research on the internet, I have used three videos on Youtube made by the three experienced teachers of the English language. Only one of them works with children. And only one of them (accent coach from London, Luke Nicholson) gave a lot of live...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Education is one of the most important and complex processes of all humans achievements, especially early childhood education. It requires good attention and hard work. Learning language is one part of those big achievements, once the language is given as a second language for young learners, therefore teaching English as a second language in primary institutions like kindergartens is a great challenge itself as for the students so for the teachers. Building a relationship with the children in the second language without utilizing their mother tongue demands great work. Teaching kids in the kindergarten must be motivating. Teaching Skills My TEFL Experience Teachers' Attitude Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: ...  [Read more]

Teaching English in countries where you don’t speak the local language is not only possible but also quite common. Many English language teachers work in countries where English is not the first language. This can actually be a benefit as it immerses students in an English-only environment, promoting faster language acquisition. However, it can present some challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main challenges of teaching English in a non-English speaking country is the language barrier between you and your students. To overcome this, it's essential to use techniques such as visual aids, gestures, and simplified language to make sure your instructions are clear. Additionally, learning a few key phrases in the local language can help you navigate daily life and build rapport...  [Read more]

Unlocking the Potential of CELTA Teaching Methods in Chinese Educational Settings 1. Understanding CELTA Teaching Methods 2. Implementing CELTA Techniques in Chinese Classrooms 3. Benefits of Utilizing CELTA Approaches in Chinese Education 4. Overcoming Challenges and Enhancing Learning Outcomes As the demand for English language proficiency grows in China, the need for qualified and skilled English teachers becomes increasingly crucial. The Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) is a renowned certification that equips educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English effectively. In recent years, the application of CELTA teaching methods in Chinese educational settings has shown promising results in enhancing language learning outcomes among...  [Read more]

Navigating through the vast array of ESL teaching resources available can be overwhelming, especially when preparing to teach in Chinese classrooms. From lesson plans to classroom activities, finding the right tools to engage and educate students is crucial for a successful teaching experience. At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we offer a comprehensive range of ESL resources specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of educators in Chinese classrooms. With a focus on practicality and effectiveness, our ESL resources cover a wide spectrum of topics, including grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural sensitivity. Whether you are a seasoned ESL teacher or new to the field, our resources provide valuable support to enhance your teaching skills and help you create...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding profession that allows you to make a significant impact on the lives of non-native English speakers. As a TEFL teacher, your primary responsibility is to help students improve their English language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. While having knowledge of the local language can be beneficial, it is not a requirement for teaching English in a foreign country with a TEFL certificate. One of the most common concerns for individuals considering teaching English in a foreign country is the language barrier. It is important to note that many TEFL teachers successfully teach English without speaking the local language fluently. In fact, immersion in an English-only environment can be advantageous for...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas If you think of Chinese ESL students it is safe to assume that most teachers would immediately worry about how they should teach phonics to Mandarin speakers. It is also true that the media has portrayed the Chinese accent as one of the most challenging to understand or even get rid of. Personal Experience Phonetical Errors Grammar Challenges Problems Due to Geographical Origin of Students Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Graciela G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Usually, the first thing you will notice as an ESL teacher, speaking from experience, is the difficulty Chinese ESL students face...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Grammar is the rules governing the composition of clauses, phrases, and words in a natural language. Simply put, grammar is the general rule of a language. Language is logical; grammar tells us in which order we say words. It's about how words become phrases; how words and phrases become sentences and how sentences become language. The Essence of Grammar Different languages have different grammar rules How to teach grammar (EFL: how to teach Chinese students English) Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Yang S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Some of these rules are acquired naturally in...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Visa and Legal Destinations Work in China is very appealing for several reasons like traveling, good salary and working conditions. However, there are some pitfalls expats should know. If you desire to work in China as an ESL teacher, here are some things to take into consideration: visa status, passport country of issue, as well as age, education and experience. 1. Visa Status 2. Country of Your Passport 3. Other Restrictions Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach English in China? Related Articles: For more details about teaching in China, check out our "Step-By-Step Guide to Legally Teaching English in China"! Many people think that it is appropriate to arrive in China on a tourist or business visa and start working in a company. In fact, it is not. Any...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Importance of English in the Chinese Education System 3. Benefits of Learning English in China 4. Opportunities for English Teachers in China In today's globalized world, proficiency in the English language has become increasingly essential. This is particularly true in China, where English is seen as a gateway to international opportunities and economic success. The Chinese education system places a strong emphasis on learning English, recognizing its importance in fostering communication skills, expanding career prospects, and facilitating cultural exchange on a global scale. As a result, there are numerous advantages to be gained from learning English within the Chinese education system. English holds a prominent position in the Chinese education system, with students...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Average Monthly Pay for ESL Teachers in Tier 1 Cities 3. Average Monthly Pay for ESL Teachers in Tier 2 Cities 4. Average Monthly Pay for ESL Teachers in Tier 3 Cities China is a popular destination for English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers looking to teach abroad. With a vast number of opportunities available across the country, ESL teachers can choose to work in different regions based on their preferences and priorities. One crucial factor to consider when deciding where to teach in China is the average monthly pay for ESL teachers in various regions. This information can help teachers make informed decisions about their career paths and financial goals. Tier 1 Cities are typically the most developed and economically advanced cities in China. These cities...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences In this blog post, I plan to examine why English may be such a challenging language for Chinese speakers to master, namely in comparison to their European peers. For the purpose of this examination, I will focus on four main aspects, from quite glaring differences to other aspects that some may not initially consider: written language, grammar, vocabulary, and language exposure. Chinese does not use an alphabet for written language Grammatically, Chinese and English stand worlds apart Challenges with vocabulary Exposure to English is very limited in China Are you ready to teach English in China? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post These points are drawn from my own experience of living and teaching English in China, from learning Chinese myself...  [Read more]

Peak English head office located in Guangzhou City, our company is fully-licensed by municipal and provincial government, therefore we are able to issue proper work visa. Our company is well-known in the city for its standards of teaching and the quality of its instructors. Our students range from pre-school children to adults. Contracts are available for 6 months or 1 year. We will provide professional training for all new teachers. If you are passionate about education, don't hesitate to contact us.  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching English to foreign students can be challenging, yet one of the most rewarding experiences. Providing education on the English language to young, middle-aged, or older individuals can be an eventful experience, shaping an instructor's portfolio and personal life. In this report, I explore possible advantages and disadvantages of teaching English to university students in China from a prospective instructor's perspective. Individual Needs Working on Personal Qualities Listen to this blog post Enjoying The Process Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Dhanisha N. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Teaching, in general, can be an action-packed...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences There are many behaviors and simple acts of conduct that may or may not be considered appropriate in any given circumstance or country. There are multiple examples for specific regions of this world. In this assessment, I would like to focus on China. Mandarin is the main language, within which there are multiple dialects. In a way, I can see a similarity between the English language and that of China. Taking the major English speaking countries of the world, that's including the United Kingdom, United States, or any other speaker of English in the first language including Australia. Every country has words that if not in slang, are spelled, worded or pronounced differently. This leads me to the following question "What are the problems involved for...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences English is one of the most widely spoken languages and it is taught in a lot of countries. Globalization, fast economic development makes many people study English. People learn English for different reasons: business, education, life abroad, traveling, personal interest. Chinese students are not an exception. With the growing economies of China, the need for learning English increased dramatically. What challenges do Chinese students face when learning English? What challenges does the teacher meet teaching Chinese students? What teaching approach can be found? 1. Motivation 2. Education 3. National character 4. Language difference 5. Grammar 6. Pronunciation Example ESA lesson plan Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Learning a second language can be difficult, and this is especially true when the learners L1 and their target language are completely different in structure, sound, and tones. An English as a second language student who speaks French, German, or any other European language will have an easier task than one who speaks a language that is not of European origins. One such language is Mandarin Chinese. State of The Problem The Chinese Language Structure Tenses Sentence Structure Do you want to teach English in China? Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ashley L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The areas that native Mandarin speakers most often run...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sheneil J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Problems with Consonants Problems with Vowels Problems with Rhythm and Stress Problems with intonation Minimal Pairs Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Chinese does not have either of the "th" sounds (like "that" and "this"). Most other languages do not have these sounds and they are problematic for most learners of English. The difficulty is the point of articulation- the tongue has to be between the teeth, not behind them. Many people say that English speakers look like they're sticking their tongues out all the time because of the "th" sounds. It...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Working as an English teacher in the kindergarten is very entertaining and challenging, as the teacher will deal with the children who don't have even a basic knowledge of English, have the very short attention span and very different in terms of their behavior. Before I moved to China, I haven't prior experience in teaching the kindergarten level students, because I always thought that teaching the young learners would be annoying, hard to discipline and far too energy-consuming. So what I had learned was just through my own experience. My Experience Rapport Building Lesson Planning Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nasiba Q. Please note that this...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences During nine years of teaching English as a Second language, I have discovered how important phonetics is in learning the correct pronunciation of the English language, and in fact, in any language. Derwing and Munro (2005) emphasize, "It is essential to have an accurate understanding of the target language phonological system to enhance the quality of pronunciation". We should look at some of the problems that L2 learners have when trying to produce accurate L1 language patterns. We also have to take into account the students. Chinese students are very reluctant to speak in a classroom setting. So what pronunciation mistakes are most common? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Since the opening of China to the Western world, Chinese society and economic prowess have both continued to grow at exponential rates. This has led to its status as a rising power, culturally and economically, and an international power increasingly interconnected with many parts of the globe. As Chinese educational infrastructure tries to match pace with the rapidity of the country's progress, one educational mandate that has persisted in importance over time has been that of English learning for all young learners across the country. The government sees English proficiency as a matter of national economic competitiveness, in fact requiring that English is taught as part of the public school curriculum as preparation for China's 高考 (gaokao),...  [Read more]