Teenagers In The Classroom

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Classroom management is the skill of organizing and managing the class, having a friendly, relaxed manner, and maintaining discipline. Good classroom management allows students to increase their motivation. Motivation has an impact on a student's academic performance. The main purpose of assigning jobs is to teach them some responsibility. Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Satinder K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. While they do learn how to be responsible by taking care of their belongings and keeping their desks clean and organized, a classroom job helps students keep the room smoothly....  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Whether in the classroom or at the grading desk, the word "corrections" might bring to mind an answer list or possibly a red pen. For English language, linguistic and spelling errors are generally the focus of these corrections. However, where English language acquisition is concerned, such a focus can interrupt the natural flow of conversation and even set the learning process backwards. Kudos Before Criticism Errors in Writing Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: This post was written by our ITTT graduate Petra W. In the classroom, a good first rule is to offer kudos before criticism. During lessons, major errors are best addressed during the portion of the lesson dedicated to study and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Second language acquisition depends on the interpersonal relationship) between teacher-student as well as student-student. These interpersonal relationships are based on rapport, which is defined as "a mutual, respectful, enjoyable, and positive connection" (Frisby, 2018). There are two quotes that reflect this. First, Aristotle stated, "educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all." Second, Confucius stated, "By three methods we may learn wisdom; First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is bitterest. These quotes highlight the need for rapport. Emotional Intelligence Strong Interest Feedback Commitment Communication Engagement Do you want to acquire new...  [Read more]

There are many games that can be used in the TEFL classroom, from simple games that only require a pen and a whiteboard to more elaborate board games. There are some games that have been specifically designed to be used in English language classes, while other, everyday games that we usually play for fun can also be adapted to be used with your students. You can even create your own games! There are many misconceptions about using games in the classroom. Some people believe that studying should be serious and that there is no place for this kind of “entertainment” in the classroom. Others believe that games are only for children and that adults are not interested in playing when they should be studying. Neither of these assertions is true, research and experience has shown...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences How can a teacher motivate an EFL classroom? Motivation is a major part of learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). There is more to motivation in the classroom than knowing English is a useful language to learn. Importance of Motivation Ways to Motivate Types of Motivation Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Aaron F. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Students should be motivated to attend and pay attention in the classroom. Each student should be constantly reminded of their own, personal reason to learn English. Finally, the best motivation comes from...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas "Student motivation" is affected by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors" (Reeve, 1996). It is part of a teacher's job to boost student's interests for knowledge and understanding, knowing as intrinsic motivation. The real problem for the teachers is: how to keep students motivated in an everyday classroom? The recommendations are as follows. Being enthusiastic Positive Classroom atmosphere Fun activities and materials Properly feedback and evaluation Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Minxin Z. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The enthusiasm of the teacher is a vital factor in the motivation of...  [Read more]

Federico Riva TEFL Information Alumni Experiences One of the biggest challenges in schools today is the task of motivating students and creating interesting lessons for them. To achieve this, several key factors come into play. Building Relationships and Trust Personal Perspective Setting Goals and Clear Program Individual Motivation Maintaining Dynamic Lessons Teaching Methodologies Variation and Engagement Interesting Materials and Activities The Importance of Motivation Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are solely those of the author, an alumni of ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). They do not necessarily...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Music-based learning is an effective technique to develop English proficiency within an early youth classroom. Classroom-based singing can create a fun learning environment and lead to the development of musical skills, social interaction, and English vocabulary. Simple Rhymes Examples of Suitable Rhyme Songs Involving the Class Listen to the blog post Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: This post was written by our ITTT graduate Patrick H. The most effective method for younger learners is the use of various simple rhymes. Rhymes are simple in nature and may easily be adapted to the current material that is being taught. The teacher and students will benefit most from a circular seating arrangement as it allows both...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas A motivated student is a student who is eager to learn, and that means they are much more likely to absorb and retain what they are being taught than if they were disengaged or disinterested. This is why it is so important for teachers to foster motivation in the classroom and engage their students to be open to learning before the start of each lesson. Methods Plan Considering Students' Age ESA Challenge Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lindsay G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. There are many different techniques teachers can use to get their students in a learning mindset. Some common and...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In my experience as a learner and now a teacher it has become obvious that nonverbal actions play an essential role in the foreign language classroom. I believe that nonverbal communication between the teacher and their students is clearly a very useful tool for classroom management and for creating an effective classroom environment. The main aspects of nonverbal communication I have witnessed as a learner and now use myself as an EFL teacher include: eye contact, gestures and mime, facial expressions and voice projection. Eye Contact Gestures and Mime Facial Expressions Volume, Tone and Speed of Voice Are you ready to use body language while teaching English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Being a teacher is my everyday dream since I was a child. As I believe that the future is mainly based on education and students, how they can make a progress and improve their skills. So I decided to take apart in this great cycle hoping that one day I can leave a mark in student's life. Listen to this blog post: Nine Basic Traits of a Good Teacher The Controller The Organizer The Assessor The Prompter The Participant The Tutor The Facilitator The Model The Observer Do you have what it takes to be a teacher? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! The teacher's responsibility is not only about teaching students and correcting their pronunciation or grammatical mistakes; his/her responsibility includes a...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Learning difficulties can found in all teaching environments, be it a classroom of mixed ability students, a one-to-one tutoring session, teaching EFL or online teaching. Learning difficulties affect all age groups, both genders, and all languages and cultures, therefore a good teacher must be able to both foresee and prepare for supporting a student's learning difficulties. This is even more important when teaching EFL students as unless these difficulties are met and coping methods are established then the student will struggle to make any progress in their learning English as a second language. My Personal Experience Real-Time Lessons Learning Challenges Lesson Procedure Other Ways to Help Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today!...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas I will never forget my first day in front of a class of students, and especially the night before the first lesson. I did not sleep much and spent the night planning and organizing every single detail, I remember even training the "teacher face" in front of the mirror. The morning the crucial moment arrives, and I find myself in front of sixty eyes looking at me and waiting. There are probably stress and expectations from both sides. It is at this precise moment we do not want to misstep, and want to start the lesson confidently. The confidence is a quality expected from an adult in the position to lead a group of students, but is it indispensable? How important is confidence in the classroom? Should we practice to increase our confidence as a teacher?...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The four basic language skills are divided into two categories; the receptive ("passive") skills — reading and listening, and the productive ("active") skills — speaking and writing. All are invaluable skills to learn when becoming proficient in a new foreign language and teachers should try to incorporate them into their lessons whenever possible. However, this summative task will be solely focused on receptive skills and how to teach them in the classroom. Students may need to read/listen for a purpose — for example, reading an extract of a book as part of their homework assignment, or they may want to read/listen for entertainment — for example, listening to their favorite audiobook. These skills are also important to learn...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Culture is ubiquitous. Today, a lot of people, especially teachers, are aware of how culture plays a major role not only within the educational realm but everywhere. Indeed, it takes an astute observation and deep understanding of cultural sensitivity in the classroom. It is noteworthy to claim that cultural belongings shape our communicative skills and thoughts, which in return enable us to sympathize with people having different cultural backgrounds. To promote cultural sensitivity in the classroom, teachers should at least be culturally knowledgeable, adaptive and celebrating diversity. Cultural Awareness Adaptation Praise and Compliment Build Relationships Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Learning a new language can elicit stress/fear responses in students. This is especially prominent in speaking as it can make people feel vulnerable/ashamed in front of their peers. It is very common for students to feel shy, especially if they are one of the weaker students in English or don't have the motivation to learn the language. My Personal Language Learning Experience Ways to Support Students 1. Classroom Dynamics 2. Attention to a Group, not to an Individual 3. Team Building and Peer Work Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Daniela A. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. I have experienced...  [Read more]

Asia Ridley TEFL Information Alumni Experiences English education in Japan has been prominent for decades and starts in elementary schools. It is in high demand as the relationship between the U.S. and Japan as well as the abundant amount of tourism. Last year straight after graduating from university in the United States, I moved to Japan and began teaching English. I was fortunate to pass the interviews and become part of the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme {JET}. Being an assistant language teacher {ALT} in the Japanese education system versus a conversation school has its differences. Therefore I will be diving into how one can contribute to the classroom as an ALT. Japanese Elementary School Collaborating with your Homeroom Teacher Outside of the classroom Conclusion Are you...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Classroom management encompasses all facets of what occurs in the classroom throughout a lesson. It includes components of classroom discipline, but it focuses on providing a peaceful learning environment that is comfortable, structured, engaging, and respectful of both the students and the teacher. Classroom management takes into account not just how the instructor or facilitator presents the curriculum, but also how students interact with the teacher and others in the classroom, as well as the learning atmosphere in which students learn because students cannot learn in a disorderly setting. Classroom Management Strategies Establish an Agenda Create Excitement for Class Content Developing a Classroom Management Plan Giving Incentives Use...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Teaching Ideas Evaluations are the useful tools or techniques that provide insight for modification, planning and in some cases re-designing a course. Student evaluation also provides the opportunity to address issues regarding student learning while the course is still in progress. There are different ways a teacher can assess a student's language level: Listen to this blog post: Tests Placement Test The Diagnostic Test Progress Test Practice Test Tutorials Evaluation by the Students Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! a) Testsb) Tutorialsc) Evaluation by the students. This post was written by our ITTT graduate Michael O. Students can be tested from time to time during the course....  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences I remember taking Russian classes at a local language institute. My motivation initially was my love for Russian culture and a desire to move there. However, actually having the discipline to study the language proved to be a different reality. So with motivation in the classroom, I know from personal experience what can and cannot work - generally speaking. There are three key themes outlined here that address not only providing motivation to the students but also the students having their own motivation. These three themes are teachers motivation, students motivation, and classroom motivation. Motivation starts with the teacher. Many students who learn English do so for opportunity. A teacher you respect and trust can provide a motivation to do good...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Teaching Ideas One of the great things about teaching conditionals is that once you discover some classroom activities that work well for one, they can be adapted to suit any of the conditional patterns that you may be asked to teach. Here are 7 fun activities for teaching conditionals for the ESL classroom that you can easily adapt to help your students understand the correct structures and usages. Listen to this blog post: 1. Pass the Pig 2. Chain Conditionals 3. Pelmanism ("Concentration") 4. Mill Drill Questionnaire 5. Group Discussions 6. Board Game With Prompts 7. Using Songs Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! Tell your students to stand up and form in two lines (teams) and...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Throughout my ITTT TEFL course a specific teaching concept persisted, entitled "ESA". This methodology has been proven over several years to be effective in teaching English to students in the classroom. A precursor to this concept was "PPP" (Presentation, Practice, Production) which has been used by many teachers, though it lacks in engaging the students resulting in a less successful environment. Jeremy Harmer noticed this and in turn put forth a new and improved model, labeled "ESA", consisting of three steps; Engage, Study, and Activate. This methodology has continued to remain relevant to this day through its flexible and fluid approach to teaching English. The Importance of the Engage Phase The Importance of the Study Phase The Importance of the...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Teaching Ideas Of the four language skills taught in an ESL classroom, listening skills are often overlooked as teachers can be unsure how to make these lessons interesting and relevant to their students. However, as listening skills are a fundamental part of the language learning process, it is vital that we give them the classroom time they deserve. The good news is that there are many ways to make listening skills lessons both fun and productive. Here are 6 ideas for livening up your lesson plans. Popular Culture Secret Phrase Celebrity Squares Describe the Picture Listen and Quiz Vowel Cards Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach listening skills in the classroom? Related Articles: One simple way to engage your students in a listening lesson is to use popular...  [Read more]

Absolutely. Language is deeply intertwined with culture, serving as its vocal representation. While mastering vocabulary and grammar is crucial, to fully understand the essence of English, EFL students should immerse themselves in the culture of English-speaking nations. This entails exploring cultural facets like music, films, literature, culinary traditions, and even fashion. Incorporating cultural elements not only enriches EFL lessons but also resonates with students, making the learning process more engaging and comprehensive. Use authentic materials Compare two cultures Introduce live native speakers Use food as a tool Use songs as a tool Use Online Resources Authentic materials can be anything that native English speakers might use that can be adapted for use in an EFL classroom....  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Teaching Ideas When teaching reported speech the potential for mistakes, errors, and the general difficulty is enormous due to the number of changes that are made with verb tenses, patterns, pronouns, questions, time expressions etc.. It's important to cover the subject slowly with lots of verbal practice at every opportunity. There are plenty of standard 'change the direct speech to reported speech' activities, but your students will soon tire of these if you overuse them. Here are some ideas which have worked well in the EFL classroom and will give your students a good amount of talk time in a variety of ways. Listen to this blog post: The Go-Between Game The Lying Game Pelmanism ("Concentration") Guess Who Reported Speech "Tennis" Who Asked What? Find Someone...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Teaching Ideas You will find the web full of ideas for teaching vocabulary and, although most of them are undoubtedly good activities, some are only suited to a particular level. Here are some tried and tested activities that can be adapted to suit any level of student and a variety of class sizes. Listen to this blog post: 1. Hot seat 2. Beat the clock 3. Crosswords 4. Board games 5. Slow Pictionary 6. Vocabulary tennis 7. Pelmanism ("Concentration") Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! This is a great activity that can be used as a warm-up at the beginning of a class, or as a game at the end of a lesson. It's suitable for any class size over 4 students and requires minimal...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Teaching Ideas Image by Alice Bolden via Writix Listen to this blog post: Think outside the box Encourage creativity, not perfection Encourage students to write about what interests them Writing doesn't have to be a solo activity Introduce multi-skilled lessons Writing games Are you ready to teach writing skills in your own classroom? Related Articles: Of all the language skills that are taught in the ESL classroom, teaching writing skills is often seen as one of the least popular. Some teachers consider these lessons to be a bit boring, hard to evaluate and somewhat limited in what you can incorporate into them. However, this doesn't have to be the case as teaching writing skills to your ESL students can actually be interesting, fun and productive. Take a look at these...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Authentic materials and created materials are some of the most effective materials an instructor teaching English as a foreign language can use. You can use both created materials and authentic materials in teaching a wide variety of students and the result will remain the same. Teachers can choose to use these materials rather than the course book materials. In going through the TEFL certification course, you learn the different group levels of students you could be teaching. In this summative task, I will discuss the benefits for each group level learning English and in using the created and authentic materials to teach the students English. Designed Materials Materials for Children Types of Authentic Materials Do you want to teach English all over the...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas One of the most difficult aspects of English teaching is not grammar or even structure; it's the externalization of ideas through the act of speaking with the teacher or students. The thought seems trivial but when put in an environment where the language taught overrides their own most students have a hard time organizing their ideas and thoughts to form coherent sentences that expresses what is on their minds. Challenges Ways to work on it Repetition Activities Other ideas How to deal with reluctant students Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Alvin M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Most...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Lewis (1993) claims that "Lexis is the core or heart of language" (p 89). Indeed, it is one of the basic steps of mastering a foreign language. Vocabulary knowledge is what makes verbal communication between people possible. Most teachers face problems when teaching new items. They feel the need to use techniques to have an effective lesson. Over the years, teachers have tried to find the most effective and practical strategies to teach vocabulary. They have been applying several methods like fill in the blank definitions, pre-teaching unfamiliar words and stressing high-frequency words. This essay will just focus on three strategies that can help teach vocabularies such as using visual aids, highlighting vocabulary in context and vocabulary practice. 1....  [Read more]