What Are The Listening Barriers

In a classroom setting where English is being taught as a foreign language, language barriers can pose significant challenges for both the students and the teacher. These barriers can manifest in various forms, such as limited vocabulary, incorrect grammar usage, pronunciation difficulties, and cultural differences. Understanding the root causes of these barriers is crucial in developing effective strategies to address them. There are several strategies that teachers can employ to address language barriers in the classroom. One effective approach is to use visual aids and realia to enhance understanding. Visual aids such as pictures, charts, and graphs can help clarify concepts and make the lesson more engaging for students. Realia, or real-life objects, can also be used to provide context...  [Read more]

Listening comprehension is a crucial aspect of language learning as it helps students understand spoken language, improve pronunciation, and enhance their overall communication skills. When teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), focusing on listening skills is essential for students to be able to interact effectively in real-life situations. By developing strong listening comprehension skills, students can better understand native speakers, follow conversations, and engage in discussions. To enhance listening comprehension skills, teachers can employ various effective strategies in the classroom. One approach is to use authentic materials such as podcasts, news broadcasts, and movies to expose students to real-life language use. Additionally, incorporating activities like...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is a fantastic worksheet to practice the question words, present continuous, has got, prepositions, colors, and shapes.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [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]

All you really need to teach English abroad is a strong desire to try something new and a teaching qualification that will show potential employers that you have undergone some level of teacher training. The internationally recognised qualification in this situation is a TEFL certificate and these courses typically have few set requirements. What level of English is required to take a TEFL course? What age limits are there with TEFL courses? What educational background do I need to take a TEFL course? Do English language teachers need to be bilingual? Do qualified teachers still need to complete a TEFL course? Do I need to know a lot about grammar to teach English abroad? Having a good level of English comprehension is the most obvious requirement for taking a TEFL certification...  [Read more]

If you have already researched teaching English abroad you will probably have come across a few stories of people who have had a bad experience due to one form of scam or another. The truth is that the TEFL world is just as open to unscrupulous people looking to make a fast buck as any other sector. However, the vast majority of teachers have no problems and by being aware of the most common scams you should be able to avoid any unpleasant outcomes. So what are the most common TEFL scams to look out for? The job sounds too good to be true Skimming off the top The vanishing job Technical difficulties Use reputable sources Google search Facebook Speak to a current teacher Double-check your contract When looking for potential job options you might come across adverts offering jobs that come...  [Read more]

In TEFL, students must master four essential skills to achieve holistic language proficiency: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These are divided into two categories: productive skills (speaking and writing) and receptive skills (listening and reading). Each skill is pivotal, ensuring learners are well-equipped for diverse English-centric environments, be it in the workplace, further education, or during travel. Listening Speaking Reading Writing In the journey of learning our first language, listening is the initial step, as it enables us to absorb the language around us. For English students, listening is key to understanding the nuances of native English speakers' language usage, including the emphasis or omission of certain sounds. While your TEFL classroom textbook will...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas I would like to start by first explaining what means to teach, which by a vague definition is to cause the student to learn and acquire the knowledge that is taught in the classroom to meet all the objectives that are previously set by the institution and by the teacher. In other words, the process of teaching is formulated and organized in such a psychological and educational way for both the learner and the teacher to be able to attain some prearranged goals. Teaching Profession Teacher's Uniqueness Are there Good Teachers? English as a Subject Learning Types Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Alexandra R. Please note that this blog post might not...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Your students have to read the sentences, and match them with the correct scene on the picture.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is a great exercise for your students to describe what they are seeing and what is happening in the picture using the present continuous tense.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Your ESL students have to write sentences following the example in the "going to" future tense.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

The realm of ESL teaching books is expansive, with renowned publishers offering a plethora of resources. Generally, ESL teaching materials can be categorized into: These categories encompass a range of tools, from structured lesson plans to interactive activities, essential for any ESL educator. Book Series Teaching Theory Books Activity Resources There are a number of well known book series. These are specifically written for the ESL teaching market and are generally set at the five levels most often taught. These levels are Starter or Beginner, Elementary, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Upper-Intermediate. A typical book series at each level will contain three books. These are the teacher book, student book and resources book (or similar names). The teacher book gives an...  [Read more]

There are four main categories of English teaching programs that we will consider here: Each program is designed with a specific audience in mind, involves distinctive educational activities, and has unique highlights. General English Academic English (Also referred to as English for Academic Purpose EAP) Business English Young Learners Other Notes Audience: Primarily taught in governmental schools and private language institutions worldwide. Curriculum: Typically, it covers five study levels with a predefined syllabus, utilizing popular book series like 'New Headway' or 'Let's go'. Highlight: It caters to millions of students worldwide who are keen on learning general English. Also read: Should I take a TEFL course bundle? Audience: Tailored for students who need to demonstrate their...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a career that is open to anyone with an excellent standard of written and spoken English, regardless of age, nationality, or academic history. All you need, apart from a solid understanding of the language, is a TEFL or TESOL certification and the drive to make your dreams come true. However, despite all the many benefits that await teachers heading overseas, there are also a few potential issues that you need to prepare for. So what are the main pros and cons of TEFL? Freedom Money Experiences Friends Loneliness Red Tape Discrimination The Job Once you have completed your TEFL certification course you will be able to apply for teaching jobs in virtually any country you can think of. If you dream of living and working by a tropical beach, or if a...  [Read more]

When considering the best countries in the Middle East to teach English, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stand out due to their vibrant job markets for TEFL qualified teachers. Additionally, countries like Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman are noteworthy for their attractive salaries and benefits. It is worth noting that these nations often have stringent requirements, given the high competition and substantial perks on offer. United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Qatar Oman Kuwait United Arab Emirates (UAE): With a population comprised of around 90% foreign-born citizens, the UAE offers immense diversity and ample English teaching opportunities. English language skills are highly valued in the workplace, leading to numerous positions in schools, language centers, kindergartens,...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is an EFL worksheet to practice the present continuous tense. The students look at the picture and complete the exercises. Put the verbs into the past continuous and choose the correct alternative.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is a fun worksheet to practice the present continuous tense. Students have to look at the pictures and write what the people are doing.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

While the global demand for English teachers remains consistent throughout the year, specific regions and countries have peak hiring periods that potential educators should be aware of. Key hiring seasons generally align with the start of academic terms and include: For those targeting specific countries or regions, understanding these peak periods is crucial to strategizing your application process and enhancing the likelihood of securing a position. What are the hiring seasons for teaching English in Asia? What are the hiring seasons for teaching English in Europe? What are the hiring seasons for teaching English in the Middle East? What are the hiring seasons for teaching English in Central America? What are the hiring seasons for teaching English in South America? ...  [Read more]

Federico Riva TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Listening is possibly the least covered of the four skills needed by ESL learners in most classrooms. As it is a fundamental skill, teachers should try to create as many listening skills lessons as they do for the other three skills: reading, writing, and speaking. Challenges of Listening Compared to Reading The Stages of Listening The Receiving Stage: Hearing and Attending The Understanding Stage: Decoding and Comprehension The Evaluating Stage: Forming Opinions and Thinking Ahead The Remembering Stage: Processing and Storing Information The Responding Stage: Verbal or Written Answers Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teachers can expect varying salaries around the world. In general, the salary range can be anywhere from $800 to $4,000 USD per month. Countries in Asia, such as South Korea, Japan, and China, tend to offer higher salaries, usually ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 USD per month. On the other hand, countries in Latin America or Eastern Europe may offer salaries ranging from $800 to $1,500 USD per month. Middle Eastern countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia often offer some of the highest TEFL salaries, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 USD per month. Several factors can influence the salary of TEFL teachers, including the teacher's qualifications and experience. Teachers with a TEFL certification, a bachelor's degree, and teaching experience are likely...  [Read more]

The field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) offers a wide range of opportunities for professional development. As a TEFL teacher, there are various avenues you can explore to enhance your skills, knowledge, and career prospects. Professional development in TEFL is crucial for staying current with best practices in language teaching, improving classroom effectiveness, and advancing your career in the field. Continuing education and certifications play a vital role in the professional development of TEFL teachers. Many institutions and organizations offer courses, workshops, and training programs designed to help teachers improve their teaching skills and stay updated with the latest trends in language education. Obtaining certifications such as the CELTA (Certificate in...  [Read more]

Starting a journey teaching English abroad comes with specific initial costs. Predominantly, these start-up expenses involve: These costs can vary based on the chosen destination, but they provide a general framework for those venturing into teaching English overseas. How much does TEFL certification cost? What are the pros and cons of online TEFL courses? What are the pros and cons of in-class TEFL courses? Will I have to pay for my own airfare when teaching English abroad? What will I have to pay for on arrival when teaching English abroad? The price of a TEFL certification can range widely based on the course format and provider. At ITTT, online TEFL courses are available for under $250. In contrast, in-class courses usually fall between $1,500 and $2,000, excluding...  [Read more]

For those aspiring to teach English abroad, Asia stands out as a premier destination with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand leading the way. To be considered for teaching positions across the continent, it is imperative to possess proficient English skills and a recognized TEFL certification. While Asia comprises a vast expanse of diverse nations, we highlight the following as prime options for teaching English right now: South Korea Japan Taiwan Thailand Vietnam With an exceptionally high demand for TEFL qualified teachers nationwide, South Korea has gained popularity as one of the world's top destinations. Not only do teachers enjoy attractive salaries, but they can also lead a comfortable lifestyle while saving a substantial portion of their income. Generous benefits...  [Read more]

British and American English showcase several key differences that learners should be aware of: These differences underline the richness and diversity of the English language, influenced by geographical and historical contexts. Differences in vocabulary Differences in grammar Collective nouns Have and take Prepositions Past tense verbs Differences in spelling Differences in dates Vocabulary discrepancies constitute a major source of confusion. Numerous words have distinct meanings in the two language versions. While teaching English, it is natural to focus on the words that make the most sense to you personally. However, it is important for students to be aware of alternative terms to avoid confusion later on. While the extensive list of vocabulary differences is too lengthy to present...  [Read more]

Europe, a hub of history, culture, and adventure, is a top destination for English teachers worldwide. Whether you are on a gap year or looking for a more lasting move, countries like France, Italy, and Spain offer premier opportunities. Annually, countless people flock to these European destinations, drawn by the promise of cultural exploration and memorable experiences. While a firm grasp of the English language is essential, most employers prioritize candidates with a TEFL certification. Navigating through the many choices can be challenging, but we have streamlined the process by highlighting the top European countries for English teaching prospects right now. Spain Italy France Czech Republic (Czechia) Germany Spain has consistently topped the list of TEFL destinations in Europe due...  [Read more]

TEFL certification offers numerous benefits to both aspiring and experienced English language teachers. Firstly, it provides a solid foundation in teaching methodologies and language acquisition theories. This knowledge is crucial for effective lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement. Additionally, TEFL certification equips teachers with the necessary skills to create dynamic and interactive learning environments, catering to the diverse needs of English language learners. Furthermore, holding a TEFL certification enhances job prospects for English language teachers. Many reputable language schools and educational institutions worldwide require teachers to possess a recognized TEFL qualification. This certification serves as a testament to the teacher's commitment to...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers have a wide range of career opportunities available to them in the long term. Many teachers start their careers by teaching English as a foreign language in language schools or online platforms. As they gain experience and expertise, they can progress to more senior roles such as teacher trainers, academic managers, or materials developers. Some teachers also choose to specialize in specific areas such as business English, exam preparation, or young learners, which can open up further career prospects. Continuing professional development is essential for TEFL teachers to advance in their careers. There are various opportunities for professional growth, such as obtaining advanced qualifications like a DELTA or MA in TESOL, attending conferences and workshops, or participating...  [Read more]

The Direct Method emphasizes teaching vocabulary and grammar through context, without the use of the students' native language. It focuses on oral communication and encourages students to think in the target language from the start. This method aims to create an immersive environment where students learn through interaction and communication. The Grammar-Translation Method is a traditional approach that focuses on teaching grammar rules and vocabulary through translation exercises. This method is more teacher-centered, with an emphasis on reading and writing skills. It is often criticized for not promoting actual communication in the target language. CLT is a student-centered approach that focuses on developing communication skills through real-life situations. It encourages students to...  [Read more]

For anyone aiming to teach English in a vibrant and culturally rich setting, Latin America emerges as a top choice, especially in countries like Argentina, Chile, and Mexico. The region boasts a mix of bustling cities, tourist hotspots, and serene rural areas, catering to diverse interests. While personal research is essential to find the best fit, we present a brief list of destinations that currently offer exceptional opportunities: Mexico Chile Costa Rica Colombia Argentina Adjacent to the United States, Mexico has long been favored by American teachers due to its convenient location. The thriving tourism industry and prospects of higher-paid jobs in the USA make Mexico a sought-after destination. Private language centers and private tutoring opportunities provide avenues for...  [Read more]

At ITTT, we firmly believe that English language teaching is one of the most rewarding careers, particularly for those yearning to travel and embark on life-altering journeys. But like any job, teaching English does have its highs and lows. Novice teachers often harbor specific concerns unique to the teaching profession about their classroom roles. Here, we address some recurrent concerns among our TEFL graduates before they embark on their first teaching assignment. What if I don't like my students? What if my students don't like each other? What if my students don't do their homework? What if I have a lot of students? What if my students are at different levels? What if I don't speak the local language? What if my school has no resources? What if I don't like my job? Many beginner...  [Read more]