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What is it Like Teaching EFL in a Kindergarten? - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
The majority of children turning 5 years old attend kindergarten for two years in preparation for primary school. Some kids enter kindergarten earlier at the age of only four. This actually varies according from state to state and also from country to country.
"Teaching EFL in a kindergarten is really challenging."
"Teaching Kindergarten is like a Rollercoaster Ride!"
Don't rely on Translations
Preparation is key!
Truly, teaching is a rewarding job.
Are you ready to teach English abroad?
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In China, most kindergartens combine childcare with teaching so that the children will develop physically, morally, and intellectually in a harmonious way to get ready for their formal school education. A good environment is... [Read more]
What is Challenging about Teaching EFL in a Kindergarten? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
As a teacher who has many years of experience working in kindergarten, I can surely say that teaching English as a foreign language is fun but requires special skills. At that age, children are yet to have their abstract thinking developed, hence teaching should mostly be based on visual aids and games. We must also consider that, apart from their young age, we are dealing with a large group who are very active, unable to stand boredom and are overwhelmingly thirsty for fund and play.
Language Experience
Engagement
International Experience
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph Niifio T. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent... [Read more]
Teaching EFL in a Kindergarten - What Is It Like? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Imagine what a child may feel when going to kindergarten for the first time. The new environment tends to be intimidating. EFL kindergartens are even more so due to foreign faces that speak foreign languages. In this essay, I'm going to talk about important aspects teachers need to embrace when teaching EFL in a kindergarten. I will refer specifically to the advantages of using play, establishing an environment of clear rules and the language enrichment that comes with oral storytelling. These ideas stem from my +5 years of teaching EFL in international kindergartens in China.
Is it possible if you don't know the kids' mother tongue?
Miracle of Play
Rules are important
Teaching material matters
Are you ready to teach ESL kindergarteners?
Related... [Read more]
What is a realistic timeline for TEFL certification and then getting a job teaching English abroad or online? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
This depends on which course you choose and also on your personal learning style. For example, you have up to 6 months to complete a 120-hour online course but many students complete the course in just a few weeks. You can then begin looking for teaching jobs immediately after your course ends.
Your lifetime job search guidance begins the day you enroll in your TEFL/TESOL course, so you can get the conversation started with your ITTT advisor whenever you’re ready. The lifetime job support also includes help with your resume and cover letter.
Teaching Jobs Abroad
Teaching English Online Jobs
Can I get paid to teach English online during the coronavirus crisis?
At the moment, recruiting and hiring for in-person teaching jobs is still slow, although schools in some countries... [Read more]
What is TEFL certification? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
TEFL certification is the qualification that new English language teachers require to be eligible to apply for most teaching jobs, no matter where they are located. However, as there are no official guidelines governing TEFL certification, it can be a difficult task sifting through the many options available. An internet search will bring up a wide array of courses with huge variations in study time and cost, making the choice even harder.
How many study hours should I look for when researching TEFL certification?
In-class TEFL certification
Online TEFL certification
Combined TEFL certification
Other types of TEFL certification
TEFL course packages
One simple way to categorize different TEFL certification courses is to look at the average amount of study hours, which are usually... [Read more]
What is a typical TEFL salary when teaching online or abroad? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Teaching English abroad or online provides the opportunity to earn competitive wages. Teachers in high-demand countries can expect monthly salaries ranging from $2,000 to $3,000, or even more, depending on qualifications, teaching experience, and location. Online TEFL teaching has also surged in popularity, offering flexible income options. While online salaries can be lower than in-person teaching abroad, they are complemented by the convenience of working from home and the elimination of commuting costs.
How much money can I make teaching English in Asia?
How much money can I make teaching English in the Middle East?
How much money can I make teaching English in Europe?
What salary can I expect if I teach English in Latin America?
How much can I earn teaching English online?
Due to a... [Read more]
What is a TEFL curriculum? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Across the globe, there are five widely accepted levels of EFL learners, which are represented in the teaching materials and book series available for students and teachers.
These levels are commonly referred to as:
Note: Any levels above these are typically termed 'advanced' and aren't usually taught in standard settings.
Please note that different curricula may categorize these levels in various ways. For instance, the Touchstone series from Cambridge uses a four-level scale, which, however, covers the same content as a conventional five-level scale. Another series, "Cutting Edge," encompasses six levels, including an advanced level, along with the standard five.
Let's examine some representative syllabus content for each level from the "Cutting Edge" series, 3rd Edition, published by... [Read more]
What is a TEFL course? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
More and more employers now expect their English teachers to have a minimum of a 120-hour TEFL certificate. Gaining a TEFL certificate shows your commitment to the profession and gives you an introductory preparation to the knowledge and skills needed to teach English.
Types of TEFL course
Course content
Which course is best for you?
There are three main routes to a 120-hour TEFL certification.
There are two main areas covered in a TEFL course,
1) Teaching skills
2) Language awareness
A good TEFL course will give you a solid grounding in the basics of the English language. You will learn how English grammar works and how you can explain it.
Topics covered will typically include;
Depending on which type of course you undertake, onsite, combined or online, the topics presented throughout... [Read more]
What is a TEFL exam? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
First we need to define what TEFL means before looking at the various ways in which it can be examined to provide a teaching certificate. There are various locations in which a TEFL exam can be taken and different methods of instruction, these will also be considered.
What does TEFL stand for?
What does the TEFL certificate involve and how is it examined?
Where can I take the exam?
Which type of TEFL exam does ITTT offer?
The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and it can be used in any situation where the English language is being taught to non-native English speakers. Technically speaking, TEFL refers to teaching English in countries where English is not the native language. It is a term used mainly in the UK and is used interchangeably with the equivalent USA... [Read more]
What is TEFL teaching? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Teaching English abroad is a great way to see the world and get paid while doing it, but what does it actually involve? Before you buy a plane ticket and jet off across the world it is a good idea to research as much as possible about TEFL qualifications, the possible restrictions you might encounter when applying for jobs, and the long term prospects this path might lead to. Here we look at the answers to all these questions and more.
What does TEFL and TESOL stand for?
What are the technical differences between TEFL and TESOL?
What qualifications do I need to teach EFL?
How do TEFL courses differ?
Which TEFL course provides the most comprehensive training?
Is an online TEFL course sufficient for teaching English abroad?
Do I really need a TEFL certificate to teach abroad?... [Read more]
What is TEFL / TESOL Certification online? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Our online TEFL / TESOL courses offer a convenient pathway to acquiring your TEFL / TESOL certification. Designed for flexibility, these courses allow you to study at your own pace, from the comfort of your home. In addition to the fundamental TEFL / TESOL qualification, you have the option to pursue specialized or advanced certifications to enhance your experience and resume. Each online course is accompanied by the guidance of an experienced online tutor. Furthermore, participants benefit from lifelong teaching support and job guidance services.
Are online TEFL / TESOL courses comparable to in-person courses?
Will I receive a full TEFL / TESOL certificate with an online course?
Who accredits ITTT online TEFL / TESOL course certificates?
How do I access the study materials for the online... [Read more]
What is the difference between teaching English online and teaching in a classroom? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Teaching English online and in a physical classroom are two distinct approaches to language instruction, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. The primary difference lies in the mode of delivery and interaction between the teacher and students. In a traditional classroom setting, teachers have face-to-face interactions with their students, while online teaching relies on digital platforms to facilitate learning.
Online teaching offers flexibility in terms of scheduling and location. Teachers can work from anywhere with a stable internet connection, eliminating the need for a physical commute to a specific location. This flexibility also extends to students, who can access lessons from the comfort of their homes without having to travel. Additionally, online teaching provides... [Read more]
What is the best way to prepare for a TEFL certification course? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Before delving into how to prepare for a TEFL certification course, it's essential to understand what the course entails. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and the certification course equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English to non-native speakers. The course covers various aspects of language teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management, language analysis, and teaching methodologies. It typically includes both theoretical learning and practical teaching experience to prepare candidates for a career in English language teaching.
To prepare for a TEFL certification course, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the course requirements and expectations. Most courses require a high level of English proficiency, both... [Read more]
Is a TEFL certification necessary for teaching English online? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification is not always a strict requirement for teaching English online, but it can significantly enhance your teaching skills and job prospects. While some online teaching platforms may not mandate a TEFL certification, having one can make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Moreover, a TEFL certification equips you with teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and a deeper understanding of English language principles, which can enhance the quality of your online lessons.
Obtaining a TEFL certification offers various benefits for individuals looking to teach English online. Firstly, it provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach English as a foreign language to non-native speakers.... [Read more]
What is a TEFL / TESOL course - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Types of TEFL Courses.
There are three primary paths to achieving a 120-hour TEFL TESOL certification:
Course Content.
Choosing the Right TEFL / TESOL course for You.
Video Testimonials.
TEFL / TESOL courses generally cover two main areas:
Teaching Skills:
Language Awareness:
Assessment methods vary based on course type, with online courses often featuring end-of-module evaluations and on-site courses culminating in a final examination.
Your decision on the type of course to pursue depends on two primary factors:
Time Available: in-class courses typically require four weeks in-class training, combined courses around 5/10 days in-class training, while online courses offer flexibility and can be completed from home within six months.
Budget: In-class courses are usually the costliest,... [Read more]
What is the Role of a Good Teacher? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
As stated in Unit 1, a good teacher "cares about his/her teaching, but cares even more about the learning of the students". This statement emphasizes the fact that an effective teacher should not only maintain a good and positive attitude towards their teaching but should maintain a good relationship with the students while creating the most engaging and friendly environment as possible so that the students can acquire the skills they need to be successful.
Patience
Student-Teacher Relationships
Within the Lesson
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!
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Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lucy E. Please note that this blog post... [Read more]
What is a Teacher’s Responsibility in the Classroom? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Discipline is inevitable in any training institution or workplace, in every society, there are norms which people must respect to maintain stability in society. Discipline is said to be rules put in place to regulate people's activities or a code of behavior using punishment to correct disobedience. Our focus here will be on classroom discipline which is the practice of teaching others to obey rules or norms which anyone who breaks the rules will be punished.
Discipline
Guidance
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Bonghanseh Edith M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
The teacher uses discipline to... [Read more]
What is the average timeframe for securing a TEFL teaching position in a competitive market? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Securing a TEFL teaching position in a competitive market can vary in terms of timeframe based on several factors. The average timeframe can range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the country you are targeting, your qualifications, and the time of year you are applying. In popular destinations such as China, South Korea, and Japan, where the demand for English teachers is high, positions can be filled quickly, sometimes within a week of interviewing. On the other hand, in less popular destinations or during off-peak hiring seasons, it may take longer to secure a position.
To secure a TEFL teaching position in a competitive market, it's essential to follow a structured approach. First, ensure you have the necessary qualifications, such as a TEFL certification, a bachelor's... [Read more]
What is a TEFL qualification equivalent to? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
A TEFL Level 5 qualification holds an equivalent stature to the well-known CELTA or a Foundation Degree. Understanding TEFL certification levels is important when selecting a course. With levels ranging from TEFL Level 4 to Level 6, you need to know which aligns with your teaching aspirations and can enhance your prospects for sought-after teaching positions.
What is the difference between TEFL level 4, TEFL level 5, and TEFL level 6?
What are the distinctions between the various levels of TEFL certification?
TEFL courses with no level
TEFL level 3 courses
TEFL level 4 and level 5 courses
TEFL level 6 courses
To begin, keep in mind that TEFL levels are based on the UK qualifications framework. This includes levels 0 through to 8. Check out the graphic below to get a better understanding... [Read more]
What is included in a TEFL course? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
There is no simple answer to this question because there are so many different TEFL providers offering a wide range of different TEFL courses. However, at ITTT, we are happy to state upfront what is and isn't included in our TEFL course prices.
Essentially, the course price you see advertised on our website covers everything you need to complete your training and receive your TEFL certificate. Unlike many other TEFL course providers, we will never ask for additional payments to cover additional things such as study resources, exam fees, or certificate fees.
Do I need to purchase any textbooks for my TEFL course?
Do I need to pay extra for a hard-copy certificate?
Is the certificate postage fee included in the TEFL course?
Is job placement included in a TEFL course?
For our online TEFL... [Read more]
What is the Importance of Teaching Productive Skills? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Productivity could be described as what someone or something creates or in other words produces. In the world of education, and reference to students, most tangible progress can be seen and heard through two specific means of production, the productive skills of speaking and writing. However, it is important to ask, how important are these productive skills? From the perspective of the teacher, they must understand that in the instances that individuals wish to converse with one another there is a cause, they have a purpose, a need to say something, a need to listen to something, or they are interested in what is being said. (ITTT, 2011) When a teacher can understand this, they can conjure and create a meaningful reason for a student to want to... [Read more]
What is ESP in Relation to ESL Teaching? - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
English for Specific Purposes (ESP) is a niche within the realm of English language teaching that offers a unique and tailored approach. While many English teachers focus on general language proficiency, ESP educators direct their attention to students with specialized needs, whether it be in medical, aviation, business, or various other professions.
What is ESP?
What language level are ESP students?
What age are ESP students?
How does ESP differ from general ESL teaching?
What resources are available to teach ESP classes?
In summary:
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 specialization not only requires distinct... [Read more]
What is it like teaching English in Bangladesh? - TEFL Blog
Sahil Gazi
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
I was born in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. I had the privilege of being educated at some of the best private schools in town, all of whom followed an industry-standard curriculum for teaching English and other English language subjects. The British Council later adopted this with various examination boards from reputed Universities in the UK.
As such, I would like to share a bit of it.
The history of teaching English in Bangladesh
The Level of English
Learning for the new generation
Limitations faced by the learners
The new standard path for English learners and speakers
The Future of English for Bangladesh
Related Articles:
Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials!
As a student, I experienced many... [Read more]
What is Easier: Group Teaching or Individual Classes? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
As we all know, teaching a one-on-one class and a group class can be very different in terms of students' needs and interests, teaching methods, class arrangments and feedback.
Individual Lessons
Teaching Approach
Arrangement
Feedback
Speaking activities
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Liz M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
For one to one classes, it is beneficial to students who have personal goals that are different than other students, for example, the students could be a tour guide who needs some tour language or the student could need more practice on pronunciation other than... [Read more]
What is the average timeframe for securing a TEFL teaching position in a competitive job market? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Securing a TEFL teaching position can vary greatly depending on the country, time of year, and demand for English teachers. In competitive job markets such as East Asia and the Middle East, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to secure a position. Understanding the dynamics of the job market in your desired location is crucial in managing your expectations and planning your job search effectively.
Several factors can influence how quickly you secure a TEFL teaching position. These include your qualifications, experience, timing of your job search, visa requirements, and the demand for English teachers in the country you are targeting. Having a recognized TEFL certification, relevant teaching experience, and a bachelor's degree can significantly increase your chances of... [Read more]
What is the best way to gain teaching experience with a TEFL certificate? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
One of the best ways to gain teaching experience with a TEFL certificate is through volunteer opportunities. Many organizations around the world offer volunteer teaching positions where you can gain valuable experience working with non-native English speakers. These opportunities not only allow you to practice your teaching skills but also make a positive impact on the community you are serving. Volunteering can be a rewarding experience that enhances your teaching abilities and provides you with practical classroom experience.
Another effective way to gain teaching experience with a TEFL certificate is by teaching English online through various platforms. Online teaching allows you to work with students from different countries and backgrounds, helping you develop your teaching skills in... [Read more]
What is it like teaching English in Saudi Arabia? - TEFL Blog
Umber Sherjeel
Destinations Alumni Experiences
Being in the teaching field for more than a decade and having taught in Saudi Arabia for the last 7+ years, I will give some pointers about my experience here as an English Language teacher.
A Booming Job Market
Financial Aspects
Fuel is cheap
Multifaceted Culture
Good news for English Native Speakers
Tips for Teaching Arab Students
Things to avoid during the lesson
Duties to be fulfilled along with teaching
Overall working environment
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The education industry in Saudi Arabia is very blooming. There are many international schools, colleges, and universities - and the English education field in Saudi Arabia continues to grow and expand.
Due to the rapid shift in the education system during the past few years, the country... [Read more]
Is Tutoring Better Than Teaching a Group? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
At its core, the same teaching principles and skills must be required and initiated for teaching one student or a group of 30 students. However, the key difference is time. An academic hour is 50 minutes, take 5 minutes to warm up and five minutes cool down, and this leaves 40 minutes for a class of 30 students. If one was to speak directly with every student, this equates to 1.33 minutes per student. Obviously, it would be pointless to do this, as not alone would each student get such little time as not to be of benefit. With one to the one, you get to spend the full 50 minutes with one student. Learning a language, be it a person's native language or a second language, it takes time and practice.
Power of Attention
Peer Learning
Do you want to... [Read more]
What is the most affordable TEFL certification? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
TEFL, or Teaching English as a Foreign Language, certification is a qualification that provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English to non-native speakers. It is a valuable credential for those looking to teach English abroad or online. There are various types of TEFL certifications, ranging from online courses to in-person intensive programs, offered by numerous providers worldwide.
The cost of TEFL certification can vary significantly depending on several factors. The type of course, the duration, the accreditation, and the location of the program all play a role in determining the price. Online TEFL courses are generally more affordable than in-person courses, while programs in popular destinations may be more expensive due to higher demand. Accredited courses... [Read more]
What is a hagwon and are they a good place to work? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
A hagwon is a specialized educational institution in South Korea, distinct from the standard public school system. It operates primarily as a private academy, catering to students who seek supplementary education, especially in subjects like English. While the public school system offers foundational education, hagwons focus on enhancing and refining a student's knowledge.
Approximately 95% of South Korean students enroll in a hagwon at some point in their educational journey, indicating their significant role in the Korean academic landscape. Given their prominence, hagwons present a vast majority of employment opportunities for EFL teachers in South Korea. However, potential educators should thoroughly research individual hagwons and their working conditions to ensure they align with... [Read more]
