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Is it Difficult to Teach Children Online? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Most would say it's an almost impossible task, one that requires a lot of patience and repetition. How are you supposed to keep their interest? How do you communicate to them efficiently despite not being physically present? Teaching children may not be an easy task, however, I believe it would be a most rewarding one. Teaching online is something that I have been keen on and would like to venture into after completing this course. We are moving into a digital world where we will all soon be connected over the internet. This is a wonderful opportunity to be able to reach and enrich the lives of children globally.
Is it a good choice?
Cultural exchange
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Why English Speaking is Difficult for Many Thai Learners - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Thailand is famously known as " the land of smiles". In some situations, smiling is the way to save face or to avoid conflicts. This often includes the time when Thai people have to communicate with foreigners in English and have no idea what the other meant. They simply smile to get out of a situation instead of making the best out of it by practicing their English speaking skill. On the other hand, they build up a fear of making mistakes and avoid being in that particular circumstance in the future. As English today plays important roles in tourism and the Thai economy as a whole, still, Thai people struggle to communicate effectively. Here are some areas suggested why it is difficult for Thai learners to improve their speaking skills.
Cultural Aspects... [Read more]
How difficult is the TEFL exam? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
The difficulty level of the TEFL exam can vary depending on individual factors such as prior teaching experience, language proficiency, and preparation. Here are some key points to consider regarding the difficulty of the TEFL exam:
The main areas covered in the TEFL exam typically include:
Yes, there are various study resources available to help you prepare for the TEFL exam. Practice Tests:
[Read more]
Is getting a TEFL or TESOL certificate difficult? - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information
When compared to the requirements to become a regular subject teacher in a state school in most countries throughout the world, entering the TEFL/TESOL market is relatively easy. In a state school a teaching degree is normally required. Gaining a teaching degree (B.Ed) usually takes three or four years of study dedicated to gaining subject knowledge and teaching skills. Whilst the same two areas are covered in any TEFL or TESOL certification course, the time taken to complete the course is greatly reduced. The typical TEFL or TESOL course may only take 120-hours. The teaching of EFL therefore offers you the opportunity to enter the teaching profession in a very short time, compared to the regular teacher training process.
Onsite courses:
Online courses:... [Read more]
Is TEFL / TESOL Certification difficult to pass? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Is TEFL / TESOL Certification challenging? How tough is the exam / course?
A comprehensive TEFL / TESOL course parallels the depth of a university-level class, demanding a committed investment of time and effort. Through thorough review of course materials and adherence to deadlines, students typically excel. Most TEFL / TESOL courses offer flexible timelines, ranging from 6 months to a year for completion. If online TEFL / TESOL study feels overwhelming, ensure your chosen course includes tutor support. With this feature, experienced TEFL / TESOL professionals assist and guide you, ensuring clarity and comprehension throughout your learning journey.
How challenging is the TEFL exam?
Typical TEFL / TESOL online course content.
Video Testimonials.
Contrary to common belief, there isn't a... [Read more]
Why a Diverse-Aged Group is Difficult to Teach - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
There are many potential problems when teaching is considered. With the teaching of a foreign language, especially in a culturally reserved country such as Turkey, the possible issues become bigger or more. I do not believe it would be very useful or beneficial neither for the teacher nor the students to put people with big age differences in the same class, trying to learn the same subject from the same teacher. There are many disadvantages as opposed to weak advantages in doing so.
Level of Motivation
Learning Goals
Interaction
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nalan F. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or... [Read more]
Why the Chinese Accent is so Difficult to Minimize in English - TEFL Blog
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
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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]
How difficult is the in-person TEFL course? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
The difficulty level of an in-person TEFL course can vary depending on the individual's prior experience, learning style, and commitment. Here are some factors to consider when determining the level of difficulty of an in-person TEFL course:
The typical workload for an in-person TEFL course can vary depending on the program and institution, but generally, it includes a combination of class hours, teaching practice, lesson planning, assignments, and assessments. Here is a breakdown of the typical workload for an in-person TEFL course:
Yes, there are typically prerequisites or qualifications required for in-person TEFL courses. These requirements may vary depending on the course provider, but some common prerequisites include:
[Read more]
Reasons Why Pronunciation is More Difficult for Adults than Children in El Salvador - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Pronunciation problems in El Salvador is very common, as many know Spanish is the main Language in this country, people in El Salvador tend to speak their native Language all the time because this is what they feel more comfortable with, as there is not any other dialect, other than Spanish, they are taught English in school, English Is the only language taught in El Salvador in public schools, but only for those that can attend one, this is because there are many people that can't attend a school due to economic matter, family problems or due to the work that is done in their household many don't have time to study and there are kids that can't attend school because they have to work, but there are many that do go to school and take English classes.... [Read more]
Specific Challenges of One-to-One teaching and Ways to Overcome Them with the Help of the TEFL Course Content - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
I have taught English in a classroom setting to large groups of adults for 4 years through a non-profit agency located in a mixed-race urban area of the United States. More recently, I have been teaching English to foreign learners on a one-to-one basis via video chat, also for four years. Given this background, I can speak from a wealth of personal experience to the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each. As my goal is to continue to teach individuals online, I was admittedly skeptical of what I might gain from a TEFL course, as most certification programs are geared toward classroom teaching abroad. Having completed the ITTT course, I find myself very satisfied with having gone through the process, as I have gained many new resources for my... [Read more]
6 Tips on How to Learn English Quickly - TEFL Blog
Kavinna Batra
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
English is a fun language to learn; however, it can even throw off the most professional learner with complex spelling rules and difficult grammar. Learning English quickly could seem difficult, even though it is considered to be accessible and reasonably easy for many to learn. I'm here to tell you that as long as you have the right plan, you can learn English quickly and easily.
Here are 6 tips on how to learn English quickly:
1. Don't get annoyed when you're down
2. Begin with what you truly need
4. Situate yourself in an English environment
5. Whatever Floats Your Boat
6. When you're in doubt, just ask!
Are you ready to teach English to speakers of other languages?
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Why Learning Grammar is Essential - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
Some may conclude that the correct usage of English grammar only matters to teachers and have no real relevance in day to day life. We have to conclude that this is incorrect because grammar, disregarding the country or the language, is the infrastructure of communication. For instance, in the simplest of examples, when a message is delivered with the correct usage of grammar, it is much more understandable and precise to comprehend the intent and meaning of that message.
Knowing proper grammar use is key
Grammar in writing
Grammar to cultivate habits
Improving grammar at its best
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Rosendo D. Please note that this blog post... [Read more]
Why Learning Grammar is Important? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Language is a medium of communication that helps to express our feelings, desires, and queries to the world around us. The ability to use language distinguishes humans from other animals and when we know a language, we can speak and be understood by others who know that language. Effective communication requires an understanding and recognition of the connection between a language and the people who use it. The ability to use a language requires profound knowledge that most speakers don't know that they know. Language is considered to be an infinite set of well-formulated sentences and it can be deduced by the grammar. Hence grammars are the theories of language composed of hypotheses of the structure of some part of the language. In Layman's terms,... [Read more]
The Struggles of Teaching Difficult English Language Patterns - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
There are many different types of peculiarities when concerning the English language, and this essay is aimed at the difficulties in teaching those peculiarities to learners that are not fluent in the English language. It can be difficult for native English speakers to progressively learn the subtle nuances as children graduating to young adults and navigating complexities of the language as adults; deciphering whether or not these peculiarities warrant further investigation or retention based on usage and context. These oddities of the English language can be exponentially more difficult for those attempting to learn the English language as a second language, having fully grasped the complexities of their own language only to have to navigate the... [Read more]
Where is the best place to teach English in Spain? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
For TEFL-qualified teachers seeking the best places to teach English in Spain, top cities to consider include Madrid, the vibrant capital; Barcelona, known for its rich art and architecture; and Seville, the heart of Andalusian culture. Other noteworthy options include Granada and Palma de Mallorca, both of which offer unique cultural experiences and teaching opportunities.
Also read: How do I find a job teaching English in Spain?
Madrid
Barcelona
Seville
Granada
Palma de Mallorca
The capital of Spain, Madrid, houses over 3 million residents, and its thriving English language learning community ensures an abundance of teaching positions. Both public schools and private language institutes frequently seek new staff, while private tutoring can provide a profitable avenue. On average, Madrid... [Read more]
Teaching Vocabulary: Is it essential for English learning? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Just as quarks are the building blocks of atoms and the periodic table of elements, letters are the building blocks of words. And just as the 118 elements are the foundation of our physical life, the 26 letters of the English alphabet are the foundation of the 470 000 words English language (Wikipedia, 2019), so that each word with all its variation and diversity is part of a living and evolving cosmos of vocabulary.
Vocabulary teaching methods
An effective way to teach vocabulary
Important skills
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Today the English language is one of the most diversified and colorful languages alive and numerous words evolve to enrich this lexicon each... [Read more]
Why Learning Teaching Skills Is Important - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Modern society demands high-quality teaching and learning from teachers. Teachers have to possess a great deal of knowledge and skills about both teaching and assessment practices to meet those demands and standards of quality education.
Benefits for Teachers
Teaching Success
Work with Students
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Vivian M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Effective teacher learning and professional development are important for student's achievement. Teacher learning skills are a continuous process that promotes teaching skills, master new knowledge, develop new proficiency which... [Read more]
What is Peer Learning and Why is it Good for ESL Classes? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Understanding the main purpose of any language usage as a means of exchanging, obtaining information, rendering our emotions, feelings, desires, states, or transmitting ideas inevitably involves this process, other people. In other words, we use language to communicate with other language speakers. So why not use this peculiarity in the process of language studying? Thereby using peer learning techniques in an ESA classroom becomes an essential and inherent part of it.
Where implementing Peer-to-Peer learning?
Benefits
Ideas for outside the classroom activities
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mariia M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily... [Read more]
How can I teach online without a degree? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
While a degree can be beneficial, it is entirely possible to teach English online without one. Although some employers might prioritize degree holders, many value experience and certifications. To boost your chances of getting hired, it is important to understand employer preferences, continuously upskill, and be strategic about where you apply. Popular platforms for non-degree holders include Preply, Cambly, Palfish, and Acadsoc.
Why do some online teaching jobs require a degree?
What do you need to teach English online?
Which TEFL course should I get for teaching English online?
Normally, employers require a degree in order to obtain a work visa when hiring someone to teach English abroad. Visas are not a problem, though, when it comes to teaching online - so why do they still want... [Read more]
Why Teaching Business English Isn’t As Difficult As It Seems - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
As a former teacher of English as a foreign language, I have some experience teaching business English. Majority of my classes were for general English conversation. However, as I continued teaching, my workload increased to include a few business-focused classes. At first, I was intimidated and nervous about teaching these students. Did I have enough knowledge about business to teach them? Would I have the information they needed? After a lot of preparation and a few lessons, I realized that business classes are not much different than regular English classes and I need not know much about business to be a successful business English teacher.
Businessmen Are Ordinary Learners
Teacher's Responsibilities
My Experience
Are You Ready to Teach Business... [Read more]
Why Learning L2 is Harder Than L1 - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Over the past two years, as part of an international community, I've had the pleasure of meeting people from all over the world. We share the common experience of learning an L2. I've spoken to nearly 100 people now, and what I've learned about learning L2 is, well, it's hard.
So why is learning L2 so much harder than L1?
L2 is challenging to learn, especially for older adults.
This makes L2 very hard to use spontaneously in certain situations.
As you can see, this lack of necessity is quite damaging to L2.
Why? Maybe I just don't possess a natural ability to learn.
Our L1 learning is so gradual.
This has become very apparent to me throughout my TEFL course.
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Reasons Why Learning American English is More Common in Japan - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
British English (BrE) and American English (AmE) are two of the main varieties of the English language. There are other different varieties of English that exist such as Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, South Asian and African English.
Language Structure
1. Vocabulary and Spelling
2. Grammar
Historical Prerequisits
Diplomatic Relationships
Globalization
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Although English was introduced to America through the colonization period by the British, the two varieties of English have evolved to be quite different from each other in certain areas.
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Shanique H. Please note that this blog post might... [Read more]
Why Seating Arrangement is So Important in Learning - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Arranging seats in your classroom can be an important task, though it may not seem like it when you first are thinking about it. There are so many different options when it comes to how you can arrange seats. There is the full circle, semi-circle, giant square, U-shape, grouping tables in several desks, two desk pairs all facing forward, or the single file rows facing forward, just to name some of the many you can choose from.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Seating Arrangement
Other Things to Consider
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Brandie K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
All... [Read more]
Is Peer Learning Useful in an ESL Classroom? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
I believe that peer learning can be very helpful in English as a Second Language classroom. I believe that as a language learner there is nothing more helpful than learning from people around you. I have found that humans are very social beings just by the nature of being human. I believe that we learn best by interacting with people and that this translates especially when learning other languages. I think that it is very beneficial for students at any level to learn from each other to build their skills in every way. I think that having students talk to each other is important for improving verbal communication and that having peers correct each other's papers is a great way to help all students involved in the editing process to improve their spelling... [Read more]
Why Learning Grammar is Crucial for the Society - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
In any language, grammar is the collection of structural rules that properly arrange the configuration of phrases in a speech, oral or written (syntax). It is the guidance of a language, describing how we are supposed to work with the structure of the words (morphology) to accurately communicate what we want or need. In other words, it provides the rules for the common use of a language, allowing us to better understand each other.
The Essence of Grammar
Grammar Within the Communication
User Experience
Grammar and Fluency
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Júlia F. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions... [Read more]
5 Reasons Why Grammar Is Vital in Language Learning - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Language is the key to communication, and grammar is the foundation that unlocks its potential. Often viewed as a daunting challenge, mastering grammar is an essential step in language acquisition. Beyond the complexities lie five compelling reasons why grammar should be at the core of every language learner's journey.
1. Building Strong Foundations
2. Bridging the Gap for New Concepts
3. Achieving Native-Like Fluency
4. Uncovering Language Nuances
5. Realizing the Role of Grammar in Language Proficiency
Conclusion
Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language?
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are... [Read more]
Why Exposure is Important when Learning a Second Language - TEFL Blog
Mark Crocker
Alumni Experiences
Unlike learning a first language, learning a second language is a task that can sometimes seem frustrating and at times even impossible. There are many reasons for this as learning a second language is very different than learning your mother tongue. Firstly, there are biological factors involved and the fact that normally children tend to assimilate things more easily than adults. Secondly, it is often harder to get the same level of exposure to the language than it is when learning a native language where repetition from parents etc. is constant. That is why when you sign up for an English class, or any other language for that matter, teachers will try to replicate that scenario with endless repetitions and fun games, because the most crucial thing is... [Read more]
How Important is Slang and Idioms in Language Learning? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
For a native English speaker, it is easy to understand as they are commonly used every day in casual conversation. But for ESL students, this type of informal English might as well sound like Mumbo Jumbo! (Make no sense).That's because most students are taught proper, textbook English like:
Consider the same sentence in slang
Business students generally need correct textbook English as,
However, certain types of Idioms are used in business every day,
Regional
Generational
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"[name of person], are you going anywhere today?""No. I'm just relaxing at home."
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mark L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent... [Read more]
Peer learning: Is it Useful in an ESL Classroom? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
What is peer learning and is it useful in an ESL classroom? Let's first define what is peer learning. "Peer learning essentially refers to students learning with and from each other as fellow learners without any implied authority to any individual, based on the tenet that 'Students learn a great deal by explaining their ideas to others and by participating in activities in which they can learn from their peers' (Boud, 2001)" (Gwee, 2003).
Language Level
Grouping within the class
Communication between students
Disadvantages
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Soo Parra C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or... [Read more]
Reading as a Part of Language Acquisition - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
In the following essay, I have chosen to explain my personal experience on why reading can be an invaluable resource in both primary (L1) and secondary (L2) language acquisition.
Reading in Early Childhood
Lack of Authentic Materials
Migration
Real-Life Practice
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Manuel G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
As a very young child, my mother read to me at night until I fell asleep. By the age of 2, I could speak in simple but uninterrupted sentences with proper syntax. By a few months after my third birthday, I was able to read the same children's books that... [Read more]
