What Is An A-ha Moment

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences A teacher must assume many different roles as they perform the task of teaching both during the lesson and outside the lesson. By outside the lesson, I am referring to the Lesson Planning, materials to be used set up and classroom organization. During the lesson is, of course, the actual teaching of the students. As listed in Unit 2 there are 6 roles in total including Instructor, Facilitator, Mentor, Psychologist, Counsellor, and Policeman. These roles are true for all levels of teaching and are modified to suit the age and level of the students. In the case of teaching Younger Learners, it is very important to consider their age in terms of attention span, interests and sense of imagination and fun. Perhaps even more important is to consider the...  [Read more]

In the wake of globalization and a rising demand for English proficiency worldwide, ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers emerge as vital educators. They instruct English Language Learners (ELLs), individuals whose first language isn't English, aiming to elevate their spoken and written English fluency to specific standards. How is an ESL teacher different from a foreign language teacher? What age groups do ESL teachers work with? Where do ESL teachers work? How do I become an ESL teacher? What are the benefits of being an ESL teacher? How do I get my first job as an ESL teacher? While both teach languages, ESL educators are specialized in teaching English to non-native speakers, often without sharing a common first language. Their teaching approach emphasizes...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The lesson plan is every teacher's road map to effective learning. An effective lesson plan should pre-answer, what to teach and how to teach. So, how do we create an effective lesson plan that will pave the way to a successful teacher-student interaction? In the next few paragraphs, we will be looking at guidelines on how to prepare a lesson plan and discuss the importance of lesson planning. Learning objective Learning activities Assessment Why is important to have a lesson plan? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Woinshet A. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. There are numerous ways teachers...  [Read more]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Motivation can be seen as the reason or reasons for acting or behaving in a certain way. Many people in the world today battle to find the motivation they need to achieve their goals, be it in the business sector, schools, or even in their day to day activities. Motivation is the driving force towards reaching your goal. For a class to learn effectively, the teacher must be able to ignite confidence in them. Using lots of examples during a lesson and also connecting them to real-life can spark interest in the students. Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Chéz-lynn M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Teaching Ideas When you decide to take a TEFL certification course with the intention of teaching English abroad, in your home country, or online, it is difficult to know who you will actually end up teaching. Once you have finished your training you could end up teaching primary aged children, teenagers, or adults. They could be from any country worldwide and they could be at any level of English language from beginner to advanced level. In many ways it is a bit of a lottery, so you should ensure you are ready to deal with all types of environments. After a while most teachers develop a preference for the type of student they prefer to teach, however, the beginner EFL student is often the most feared. The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Why is a...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences What is the role of the teacher in English learning? Although 'teacher-centered education' was taught in the past, 'student-centered education' is more emphasized in the modern era. Accordingly, the role of the teacher is also changing from the teacher who delivers the knowledge of the subject to the teacher who facilitates students' successful learning. It is important to recognize that teaching and learning are an integral part of each other. (Harmer, 2007). Teaching practice should not be simply 'one-way' delivery of knowledge to students. Teachers should play a role in motivating students to participate in learning. A variety of learning methods should be tried to enjoy the process of learning a foreign language rather than the result of...  [Read more]

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]

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! Related Articles: 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]

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! Related Articles: 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]

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Planning, planning, planning! Many things in life need to be properly planned, be it a summer holiday or a work presentation. It can be a plan that is formally written down or it can be a plan that you simply keep in your mind. Having some kind of structure in place before doing activities will help put you at ease because you know what to do next and what to expect. Planning will also make you more productive as there will be no 'guessing' time, you will know what to do and when to do it. Taking the time to plan your lessons will almost certainly save you time in the long run. What is a Lesson Plan? Constructing a Lesson Plan Added Benefits of a Lesson Plan Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post ...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Rapport in this context is the relationship between the students and the teacher, and among the student group within a classroom environment. Why is having rapport within a classroom important? Because without a friendly connection among the participants there is a real danger of disruption to the learning process. The Two-Way Road of Respect Finding the Right Balance The Three Common Scenarios of Classroom Rapport A Brief Example of How to Establish Rapport in a New Classroom Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Juri N. "Respect is a two way road," this statement says that without one side or the other of the Street of Respect, respect is not there....  [Read more]

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]

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]

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? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post 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]

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! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph Niifio T. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent...  [Read more]

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]

Celta Vigo La Antigua is a football club with a rich history and a deep-rooted connection to its community. Founded in 1923, the club has become a symbol of pride for the people of Vigo, Spain. With a passionate fan base and a tradition of playing attractive, attacking football, Celta Vigo has carved out a special place in the hearts of football enthusiasts around the world. The club's journey through the years has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. From its humble beginnings in the local leagues to its rise to the top flight of Spanish football, Celta Vigo has always maintained a commitment to excellence on and off the pitch. The club's iconic sky-blue and white colors have become synonymous with stylish, free-flowing football that delights fans and neutrals alike. As one of the...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Understanding the main purpose of any language usage as a means of exchanging, obtaining information, rendering our emotions, feelings, desires, states, or transmitting ideas inevitably involves this process, other people. In other words, we use language to communicate with other language speakers. So why not use this peculiarity in the process of language studying? Thereby using peer learning techniques in an ESA classroom becomes an essential and inherent part of it. Where implementing Peer-to-Peer learning? Benefits Ideas for outside the classroom activities Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mariia M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily...  [Read more]

Linda is a passionate traveler and English teacher exploring the world one country at a time. After studying Mandarin Chinese, she moved to Guangzhou, China, to pursue an internship at a German online marketing company. She loved it so much that she decided to move back to China after finishing her Bachelor’s degree in Management in California. After working in online marketing for a while, she got into English teaching. Teaching English overseas has enabled her to experience life in different countries and fund her passion for travel. She taught English in China for a year and also during my her year in South Korea. She’s been living in South Korea since 2015 and returned to working in online marketing and teaching online in 2016 remotely. On her Website, she shares her tips and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas During the grammar lessons of learning English, the aspect of tenses is inevitable. Tenses could be passed, present or future which could further be broken up into simple past, simple present or future continuous just to highlight a few. The past tense is important because it gives one some background information about an event when such an event is assessed. What is testing? What is evaluation? Why is it important for students and teachers? Course review Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate David K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Testing is a process that can be done using a particular scale...  [Read more]

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]

Mark Crocker TEFL Information Alumni Experiences In recent years, English has become an increasingly important means of communication that is used by people from many different backgrounds to interact with the rest of the world for a wide variety of purposes. But why has English become an international language, how is it used and applied in different situations and what are the advantages of being able to speak English? English Around the World International Use of English in Specific Fields Common Benefits of English Proficiency Are you ready to take your TEFL course? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Alexander C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. English...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!   "For" and "since" are prepositions used when talking about time. Let’s look at the difference between the two words.   For and Since are prepositions. Let’s look at the difference between these two words.   "For" is used with a period of time. This is often a number plus a time word. "For" is used when we measure the duration of something or how long it lasts. It has a start point and an end point and can be used in different tenses.   "Since" is used with a starting point or a time or date. It refers to something that started in the past and continues until now. "Since" is mostly used with the present perfect and perfect progressive tense. For example:   Register now & get...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences I would like to divide groups of learners into 4 categories: children (from 5 to 12 years old), teenagers (from 12 to 18 years old), adults (from 18 to 60 years old) and seniors (from 60+). I had the chance to teach all of those groups in some points of my life. The conclusion of this experience made me see the major difference in the abilities and motivation among those 4 different groups. Teaching children Teaching teenagers Teaching adults Teaching seniors Are you ready to teach ESL students? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lara M. Children are a very nice audience when it comes to preparing fun exercises. They also don't require detailed knowledge, because they are just at the...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Drilling is a teaching method used by teachers, teaching languages or other subjects, all over the world. Generally, drilling involves the teacher saying or modeling something to the class and the students repeating it. There are many ways of using the drilling method. Some teachers may use it sparingly in class while others may use the method so often it becomes the main way their students acquire new information. Balance My Experience Variety of Activities Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Erin D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. I believe when it comes to utilizing the drilling method in the...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is a fun worksheet to practice the present perfect tense. Students look at the pictures and describe what has just happened.     Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]