Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
What can I do after teaching English abroad? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Some people who head overseas to teach English grow to love the lifestyle so much that they never return to work in their home country. However, for the majority, the move back home will come at some stage, whether after a single year or much longer. For some it can be a difficult experience as you are no longer the person you were when you first left home. Everything can feel different, from the everyday language to the time zone, from the climate to the cuisine. Reverse culture shock can be genuinely unsettling. One way you can combat this, and continue the international focus of your new found way of life, is to find a job that allows you to use the new skills and knowledge that your time abroad has given you.
Can I carry on teaching English in my home country?
Can I join a non-profit... [Read more]
What can I do after TEFL? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
After obtaining a TEFL certification and teaching abroad, many people discover a newfound passion for living overseas, while others eventually decide to return to their home countries. For those who return, the skills acquired while teaching with TEFL can open doors to numerous other opportunities, both domestically and internationally.
Can I continue to teach English in my home country?
Can I work for a non-profit or volunteer organization?
Can I get a job in the travel industry?
How can my cultural awareness and language abilities help me find work?
Should I go back to school?
Can teaching English in another country be a promising career?
For many teachers the obvious next step is to continue working as an English language tutor. If you live in or near a relatively large city you are... [Read more]
What do TEFL teachers wear? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Attire expectations vary widely based on the school's policies:
Pro Tip: To avoid confusion, inquire about the dress code during the job interview. As a rule of thumb, it is wise to err on the side of professionalism on your first day, adjusting as you gauge the school's culture.
What should I wear for a TEFL job interview?
What about tattoos and piercings?
What about facial hair?
Which countries have specific expectations when it comes to appearance?
When preparing for a TEFL job interview, attire plays a pivotal role in making a strong first impression:
In essence, prioritize a professional appearance throughout the TEFL job application and interview process to boost your prospects.
Also read: What questions should I ask a TEFL employer?
Although tattoos and piercings have become more... [Read more]
What Options do Business English Teachers Have? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
This summative task essay will answer the question, "What options do business English teachers have?". This is topic number 14, "Options for Teachers." The different career options available for teachers of business English, as well as their unique benefits and challenges, will be discussed in the following.
The number of options
Technological inclusion
Benefits
Individual work
Being employed
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!
Related Articles:
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Alorah L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
The wonderful part about becoming an English teacher is the variety of open different avenues. Here's a list of the most common... [Read more]
Nightly Reading Homework: Best Practices in 6 Steps - TEFL Blog
Ahmed Taha
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
If you're teaching a child in Kindergarten to second grade, you can probably assign about 10, 20, or 30 minutes of reading per night as homework.
Recommendations for Parents
Number 2 is: Don't "tell" the words.
Number 3: Move beyond "sound it out."
Number 4: Have the child re-read some passages for fluency.
Number 5: Allow some mistakes to go uncorrected.
Number 6: Allow the child to read the same book multiple times.
Finally, continue to read to your child.
Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language?
Related Articles:
Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!
References
This blog post explains what the teacher can do and what parents and other caregivers can do to ensure that this assignment is truly... [Read more]
What skills do TEFL teachers need? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Throughout our educational journey, we have all encountered a mix of highly competent teachers as well as those who leave room for improvement. Exceptional teachers effortlessly engage and inspire students, creating a vibrant learning environment. Such proficiency often comes from experience, allowing teachers to hone their skills and develop effective strategies. Yet, certain inherent skills tend to characterize successful teachers, regardless of their years in the profession.
Excellent communication skills
Flexibility
Good management skills
Patience
Passion
Good teachers need to be great communicators. They typically enjoy social interactions, bring an energetic and positive demeanor to the classroom, and maintain an optimistic outlook regardless of challenges. Such a positive and... [Read more]
COVID-19: What Can English Teachers Abroad Do? - TEFL Blog
Russ Tuff
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
"What we can't see can't hurt us" - Really?
Listen to this blog post:
The COVID Action Plan
1. Will we have jobs?
2. How will the classroom look, and can we still make a difference to others?
Let me know your thoughts.
Related Articles:
Not many businesses will do well out of this current CoronaVirus / COVID-19 pandemic gripping the planet with fear at the moment, (unless we are toilet paper manufacturers) as we stand, waiting like a deer in the headlights for something we can't see to hit us.
I don't know what COVID-19 means, however, I was looking for a positive way to think about it and I came up with: "Communication Of Virtual Instruction Design" For those unfamiliar with the terminology of "instruction design" it's what we do as... [Read more]
The Anatomy of an Outstanding Teacher - TEFL Blog
Mark Crocker
Alumni Experiences
So you want to be a teacher. Does the thought of preparing our youth to tackle the world get you all fuzzy inside? Make no mistake, teaching is a noble profession. We put monumental pressure on the backs of teachers to educate future generations. But do you have what it takes to be an excellent teacher? A teacher that stands above the rest, and gives each student the quality education they demand.
What Kind of Teacher Do You Want to Be?
The Importance of Patience
The Importance of Communication
Other Key Traits of a Great Teacher
Are you ready to take a TEFL course?
Related Articles:
Listen to this blog post:
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate John B.
Do you Remember when you were in high school? You probably had that one Instructor... [Read more]
Top 5 ESL Teacher Strategies for Your Online Classes - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In this blog post, we will look at five strategies you can use t boost your effectiveness within the class and also as a general way of increasing your online business. Ideas covered include the use of gamification and individualization.
Watch the video about this topic
Gamification
Individualization
Charting your course
Strategies of content delivery
Narrowing down your niche
Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language?
Related Articles:
Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!
This idea isn't new but not many teachers appear to try to apply it to their online classes. There are several reasons why you should try it. (Especially as the majority of online classes are for young... [Read more]
What does an EFL teacher do? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
An EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teacher specializes in instructing non-native English speakers, ensuring they develop comprehensive language skills. This includes guiding students in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English effectively. While many EFL teachers are found in public education settings, aiding children in their linguistic journey, they also teach adults in various institutions, enabling learners of all ages and backgrounds to communicate confidently in English.
What does an EFL teacher actually do?
What does an EFL teacher need to be successful?
For many teachers the most time consuming aspect of the job is planning and preparing lessons in advance. While teachers with plenty of experience can often get by with minimal planning as they will have taught the... [Read more]
How do I find a teaching job after completing my TEFL course? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
After completing your TEFL course, there are several steps you can take to find a teaching job:
After finishing a TEFL course, there are several effective ways to search for teaching job opportunities:
Yes, there are several online platforms and job boards that specialize in advertising teaching positions for TEFL graduates. Some specific online platforms and job boards that cater to TEFL graduates looking for teaching positions include:
[Read more]
What not to do as an EFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Every teacher, particularly those starting their careers, inevitably stumbles upon some mistakes in the classroom. The key to improving as a teacher is recognizing these errors. In this article, we will examine some of the most common pitfalls new teachers encounter and how to steer clear of them as you grow in experience.
Don't talk too much
Don't let one or two students dominate the class
Don't pretend you know everything
Don't try to improvise
Don't follow the textbook too rigidly or abandon it altogether
Don't say ?Do you understand??
Don't just use words
Don't forget to give plenty of feedback
Don't think of your students as your friends
One of the most frequent mistakes by novice teachers is monopolizing the conversation during lessons. Remember, students need ample opportunities... [Read more]
Gingerbread Man Writing Prompt - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
What would you do if a gingerbread man jumped out of your oven?
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
[Read more]
What time do you...? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
This is a useful worksheet to practice daily routines and time. Students re-order the words into sentences, connect the sentences to the clocks and the matching pictures and draw the correct times.
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
[Read more]
What do they like - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
This is a fun practice on hobbies and Present Simple. Once the activity is completed, it can be used for speaking purposes.
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
[Read more]
What qualifications do I need to be a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Typically, TEFL teachers should possess an accredited TEFL certificate with at least 120 hours of training. Proficiency in English, either as a native or fluent speaker, is also vital. While a bachelor's degree can enhance job prospects, many institutions prioritize the TEFL certification. Above all, a zest for adventure and a passion for teaching are invaluable assets in this field.
Do I need to be fluent in English to get a job in TEFL?
Do I need to be a native English speaker to get a job in TEFL?
Do I need a TEFL qualification to teach English?
Can I get a TEFL job if I have completed a TEFL taster course?
What is a 120-hour TEFL certificate course?
Should I take additional TEFL courses to enhance my job opportunities?
Fluency in English is fundamental for those aspiring to become... [Read more]
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in the Classroom While Teaching English Abroad - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
TEFL Information Teaching Ideas
Teaching English abroad is an exciting career path that thousands of people embark on every year. The first step is usually a TEFL or TESOL certificate and then finding a job in a suitable location. Once you step into your own EFL classroom, you will then be able to use all the skills you learned during the course. However, every teacher makes mistakes every now and again, which is why we have summarized the top mistakes to avoid in the classroom while teaching English abroad to help you out!
Listen to this blog post:
1. Being the "Nice, Fun Teacher"
2. Planning Your Lessons Too Quickly
3. Using the Same Lesson Plan for All Levels
4. Talking Too Quickly or Too Slowly
5. Thinking Too Short-Term
6. Obsessing Over Correct Grammar
7. Seeing... [Read more]
How does the lifetime job support service work? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Our lifetime job support is designed to assist our TEFL trainees not just during their course, but also long after they have graduated. While many undertake our TEFL course to pursue teaching English abroad, we go the extra mile to help them secure their dream job in their desired location. Beyond just training, our commitment extends indefinitely, offering continuous job search assistance whenever our graduates need it.
How will ITTT help me find a job teaching English abroad?
What is the success rate for graduates finding jobs after a TEFL course?
How soon after completing a TEFL course will I find a job?
At ITTT we offer all course graduates extensive help with finding suitable teaching jobs in their country of choice. As the need for English language teachers is very strong... [Read more]
Innovation in Curriculum Design - TEFL Blog
Ahmed Taha
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
The curriculum has been used in the past as a collection of topics and syllabuses for children and young people to be learned during their school years. However, this definition does not do justice to the wider outcomes required by the real world or to the complexity of what many teachers are actually doing to promote the well-being of children and young people. It fails to define the overall objectives that the program is supposed to serve. Learning is often greatly influenced by when and how success is evaluated and how the effects of measurement are used. Therefore, evaluation needs to be seen as an important part of the process of learning. Consequently, the study has taken the following general view of the curriculum.... [Read more]
Sample ESA lesson: Patchwork ESA - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
When using the ESA methodology, there are a number of lesson formats available. In the third of this series we look at a Patchwork lesson. What does a Patchwork lesson look like and for what level of student is it most appropriate?
Watch the video about this topic
Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language?
Related Articles:
Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!
Lesson aim: For the students to be able to discuss holidays using vocabulary and conducting a role-play.Student Level: Intermediate (Due to the complexity of Patchwork lessons they should only be used for Intermediate level and above)
We start by reminding ourselves of the form of a Patchwork ESA lesson.
We start with an engage as always and... [Read more]
What are they going to do? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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]
A New Year - A New Me Worksheet - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
This worksheet is ideal to make promises and think about what we want to do in the new year.
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
[Read more]
How do TEFL teachers stay updated with teaching methodologies? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In the field of TEFL, staying updated with teaching methodologies is crucial to ensure that teachers are equipped with the most effective strategies to help their students learn English. Teaching methods and approaches are constantly evolving, and what may have worked well in the past may not be as effective today. By staying informed about the latest trends and research in language teaching, TEFL teachers can enhance their teaching practices and better meet the needs of their students. Additionally, staying updated can help teachers remain motivated and engaged in their profession, as they are constantly learning and growing in their knowledge and skills.
There are several ways TEFL teachers can stay updated with teaching methodologies. One common method is to attend professional... [Read more]
What do you need to be able to Teach English Abroad - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Whether you want to teach as a volunteer in the depths of the jungle on the Thai-Myanmar border or as a business English instructor to corporate high-flyers in Sao Paulo, Brazil, you will need at the least a recognised TEFL/TESOL certificate.
Although it is still possible to find jobs where simply being a native speaker of English is enough to secure the position these opportunities are becoming few and far between and earning a 120-hour certificate with a reputable organisation should be your priority before starting out. A bachelor's degree is not a necessity for the majority of countries around the world and there are plenty of opportunities out there without such a qualification.
Teaching experience is also not a necessity for the majority of teaching positions but the higher... [Read more]
What can I do to stand out as a TEFL teacher? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
To stand out as a TEFL teacher, having the right qualifications and training is key. Employers look for teachers with a TEFL certification, which can be obtained through reputable programs both online and in-person. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree in education or a related field can enhance your credibility as a teacher. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest teaching methodologies will also set you apart from others in the field.
Engaging in professional development opportunities can significantly enhance your teaching skills and set you apart in the competitive TEFL job market. Consider attending workshops, conferences, or pursuing further education in areas such as linguistics, second language acquisition, or educational technology. Building a strong... [Read more]
What TEFL course should I do? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
When deciding on a TEFL course, it is essential to consider current trends and circumstances. Over the past decade, online TEFL qualifications have surged in popularity, a shift further propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic and related travel constraints. Despite this digital tilt, many educators still value on-site TEFL training. Hybrid courses, which merge the convenience of online learning with hands-on in-class experience, offer another balanced approach for those seeking comprehensive preparation.
Online TEFL training
Onsite TEFL training
Combined TEFL courses
Online TEFL course bundles
Higher qualifications
Diploma in TESOL
The most commonly taken ESL teaching course is a 120-hour online TEFL certification course. Originally taught across 4 weeks in a classroom, the course content has... [Read more]
What TEFL qualification do I need? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
To embark on a career in teaching English as a foreign language, you should aim for an internationally recognized TEFL qualification that encompasses at least 120 hours of study, which has been externally validated. Courses can be undertaken online, in-person, or through a combination of both. As jobs are widespread, these courses are open to native and non-native English speakers alike.
Online or onsite TEFL courses?
Combined TEFL courses
What to look out for?
Online course packages
There are some clear advantages to taking an in-class TEFL course. The main benefit comes from the observed teaching practice sessions and the confidence that is instilled in new teachers. Face-to-face instruction also gives the TEFL trainer more opportunity to impart their knowledge and guide the trainee on... [Read more]
TEFL Online course - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
In addition to its in-class teaching courses and advanced online courses, ITTT offers two online TEFL/TESOL courses. These are the standard 120-hour TEFL/TESOL course and the 60-hour introductory TEFL/TESOL course.
With quality course materials and course prices starting as low as USD 199 ITTT's online TEFL/TESOL courses represent excellent value for money especially when you consider the additional benefits outlined below. Both courses can be studied with or without tutor support and are a great way to earn a teaching qualification for those unable to attend an in-class course. Whether you choose the 60-hour course or the 120-hour course you will benefit from the following course features: Internationally accredited courses, continuous assessment, embossed hard copy certificate,... [Read more]
How do TEFL teachers utilize authentic materials in their teaching? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
In Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), authentic materials refer to resources that have not been specifically created for language learning purposes. These can include newspapers, magazines, advertisements, songs, movies, and more. Incorporating authentic materials into lessons can greatly enhance the learning experience for students by providing real-world context and exposure to natural language use.
There are several benefits to using authentic materials in TEFL. Firstly, they expose students to real language as it is used by native speakers, helping learners to develop their listening and reading skills in a more natural way. Authentic materials also provide cultural insights and help students understand the nuances of language use in different contexts. Additionally, using... [Read more]
Last posts written by Lourien
An ambitious ESL Teacher, with a passion for people. In my spare time, I voluntarily tutor students online. My husband Willie and I live in South Africa with our son Retief. My favourite things include my dogs, family time, exercise, and of course POTATO CHIPS (sometimes even at the same time)!
Lourien Prinsloo
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
One of the most valuable resources to have in life is an educated mind. In this last decade, the educational world was and still is constantly evolving, especially with the rise of technology and a pandemic stricken worldwide that is influencing millions of people’s educational growth.
Lourien Prinsloo
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
This article focuses on the topic of teacher burnout. What is it and how can you avoid it?
Lourien... [Read more]
