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Why is the English Language So Popular Worldwide and What is it Used For? - TEFL Blog
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
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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]
What Drilling Is and How This Method Can be Used in TEFL Teaching - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Drilling is a simple yet effective teaching technique used to practice and master language skills. The teacher models a word or a sentence, and the learners repeat it. It is a way of developing a standard pronunciation of the language and introducing a language easily. Drilling started about 70 years ago when the armed forces used it to teaching language.
The Army Method
Why It's Effective
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sunita T. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Drilling was called the Audio-Lingual Method or the... [Read more]
ESA Methodology - What Is It and Why Should You Use It in the Classroom? - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Teaching Ideas
ESA is a common methodology that teachers use when teaching students another language. It is also a large part of your TEFL certification course. By using the layout of the ESA method to plan your lessons, they will be more structured, organized and effective.
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What is ESA?
The Engage Phase
The Study Phase
The Activate Phase
Benefits of Using the ESA Method
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This post was written by our ITTT graduate Casandra L.
ESA stands for engage, study, and activate. By using ESA, it gives teacher's the flexibility to conduct a classroom in an organized and productive way. ESA is extremely important when it comes to... [Read more]
What is The Future of Technology in The Classroom? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Twenty years ago as an elementary school principal in a large inner-city school district, the staff and I took great pride in creating what we considered to be an exemplary high-technology school. We believed that technology could serve as an excellent tool for children to develop critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills, deeper conceptual understanding, and the ability to communicate their understanding to others. This new paradigm was called inquiry-based information shifting teaching from a teacher-directed approach to a student-centered approach where the students acquired the skills necessary to access and use information. Of the many new initiatives, we started at this elementary school was a "Writing to Read" lab in K-1, a full-time... [Read more]
What are the most common teaching methodologies used in the TEFL industry? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
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]
What Really Is the Role of the Parents in Education? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
It goes without saying that parents are the first teachers to their children, thus, education begins at home. Mothers and fathers together with school personnel may set up a perfect environment for a child's balanced learning.
Research in the field
Suggestions to parents
1. Be a Role Model
2. Read books together
3. Encourage active learning
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Recent research has shown that parent involvement in their child's school life has many positive results. For example, students whose parents participated in PTA got higher grades and test scores. They also were more likely to enroll in higher level programs and advanced classes and to achieve higher graduation rates.... [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
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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]
Why the Use of Video Technology in Teacher Training is Important - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
The advancement in video technology has proven wonders in furthering education. For teachers specifically, it has allowed for them to be trained and professionally developed from anywhere in the world. Video technology for teacher training has several benefits, of which I'll name a few.
Benefits of Video Technology
Video Technology in the TEFL Course
Video Technology in Everyday
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Benjamin D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
One of these benefits include the cut down of added cost for the teacher or their school of employment. Having video technology,... [Read more]
Different Types of ESA Lessons - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Teaching Ideas
If every single lesson that we undertook with our students was a straight arrow ESA lesson then it is quite possible that the students would be able to predict what is going to come up next. Whilst this might be good for the lower level students, it could potentially become a little bit boring for our higher level students. Harmer considered this and his response was to generate two other types of ESA lesson that we can use to try and generate a little bit more interest.
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The first of these is known as a boomerang lesson and the second is known as a patchwork lesson.... [Read more]
Can I send money back home while teaching English abroad? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
English teachers abroad commonly send their earnings back to their home countries for obligations like student loans, mortgages, or family support. The process can be complex, with considerations such as transfer fees, fluctuating exchange rates, and varying transaction times. Common methods include bank transfers, online payment services, and money transfer companies, each with their own pros and cons. It is vital to compare the costs, efficiency, and security of these options to choose the most suitable method for international money transfers.
What are the pros and cons of using a local bank?
What are the pros and cons of using Xoom?
What are the pros and cons of using OFX?
What are the pros and cons of using Western Union?
What are the pros and cons of using MoneyGram?
What are the... [Read more]
What are the requirements for teaching English in Argentina? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
To teach English in Argentina, most language schools and institutes require a Bachelor's degree in any field. However, having a degree in Education, English, or a related field can give you a competitive edge. Additionally, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is highly recommended. These certifications demonstrate your knowledge of language teaching methodologies and can improve your job prospects in the country.
Foreigners who wish to teach English in Argentina need to secure a work permit and a valid visa. The most common type of visa for English teachers is the Temporary Residence Visa for Work Purposes. To obtain this visa, you will need a job offer from a registered employer in Argentina.... [Read more]
What is the Diploma in TESOL course? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Our Diploma in TESOL is an advanced, research-based online program designed to provide an in-depth understanding of English language teaching. It equips graduates with a significant edge in securing ESL positions globally. Completing this course positions candidates for roles with higher responsibilities and better salary prospects.
Can I take the Diploma in TESOL course without prior TEFL certification?
Does the Diploma in TESOL course come with tutor support?
How will I receive the Diploma in TESOL course study materials?
How is the Diploma in TESOL course assessed?
How quickly can I finish the Diploma in TESOL course?
Yes, you can. While our Diploma in TESOL is an advanced training course meant to expand on a standard TEFL certification, it also incorporates our 120-hour TEFL... [Read more]
Course Books and Materials: Use of Visual Aids - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Teaching Ideas
Here we're going to consider the use of visual aids in the classroom. Visual aids can include examples such as, real objects (which we call realia), the use of pictures and photographs and also the use of models. So let's consider some of the ideas surrounding the use of visual aids.
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Why are they useful?
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First of all the use of a visual aid can reduce teacher talk time (TTT) which is always desirable.It is much simpler to just show a real object than to try to describe it, so that we could just ask the students, "what is this"? and they would say, "that is a pen" rather... [Read more]
What are the most common teaching methods used in TEFL courses? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
The Direct Method is a popular teaching approach in TEFL courses that emphasizes the use of the target language in the classroom. In this method, teachers communicate only in the language being taught, encouraging students to think and respond directly in that language. Vocabulary and grammar are taught in context, and students are encouraged to practice speaking, listening, and reading from the start. This method aims to create a natural language learning environment, similar to how children learn their first language.
The Grammar-Translation Method is a traditional approach to teaching language that focuses on grammar rules, translation of texts, and rote memorization of vocabulary. This method is based on the idea that language learning is a mental exercise that involves understanding... [Read more]
What are the most common teaching methods used in TEFL classrooms? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
When it comes to teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), there are various methods that educators can utilize to help students learn effectively. These methods range from traditional approaches to more modern and interactive techniques. Understanding the different teaching methods used in TEFL classrooms can help teachers create engaging and productive learning environments for their students.
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is a popular approach in TEFL that focuses on real-life communication. This method emphasizes the importance of students using language to communicate meaningfully in authentic situations. CLT encourages interactive activities such as group discussions, role-plays, and language games to help students develop their speaking and listening skills. By using... [Read more]
Going Out of the Classroom: What Games and Activities Can Be Used? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Outdoor games and activities can be motivating and fun for English language learners. According to my research, there are many different activities that teachers can use to practice and develop students' English language skills. Outdoor learning has many benefits: Students can be highly motivated and energized by being outside. When a class has become boring or the students disinterested, going outside can help students return to the classroom refreshed and more focused than before. Furthermore, being in the new surroundings opens up unique, memorable ways to teach English in the great outdoors.
ESL Community Experience
Choice of Activities
Game Ideas
Scientific Research
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This... [Read more]
TEFL TESOL Combined Courses - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
The combined TEFL course provides a unique blend of online and in-class study that is perfect for some trainees. Once you have completed the online component of the course you then get to attend one of our training centers for a limited time in order to gain some invaluable teaching practice in a real language learning environment, as well as further instruction from our professional teacher trainers. If you choose the combined TEFL course option you get to pick from a number of great training center locations. The in-class section of the combined TEFL course consists of ten days of study, with the middle weekend free, if you choose our centres in Bangkok, Phuket, or Rome. At our centers in New York and Paris the in-class section lasts for eight days straight. With these... [Read more]
What are the best countries for TEFL teachers to save money? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
When considering which countries are the best for TEFL teachers to save money, several factors come into play. The cost of living is a significant consideration, as lower living expenses can allow you to save a higher percentage of your income. Additionally, the average TEFL teacher salary in the country is crucial, as higher wages can contribute to greater savings. Other factors to consider include the availability of benefits such as free accommodation or airfare reimbursement, as these can significantly impact your ability to save money. Finally, the demand for English teachers in the country can also affect your earning potential, as higher demand often leads to better job opportunities and higher salaries.
1. South Korea: South Korea is a popular destination for TEFL teachers,... [Read more]
Evaluation and Testing: What is the Necessity? - TEFL Blog
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
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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]
When is the best time to use songs in a classroom for young learners? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
I was an English teacher in Japan for over three and a half years. In that time, I gained a lot of experience teaching young learners. My students were aged from two to fourteen. As I taught these students, I learned a lot about how songs can be used effectively in the classroom. Songs can be used to teach sentence structure, routines, vocabulary, and help aid the understanding of instructions in the classroom.
Learning path
Young children
Lesson flow
Transitions
School kids
Teenagers
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Megan B.
Before students can even grasp the language, they can understand rhythm and music. When teaching the youngest students... [Read more]
What is the demand for TEFL teachers in the Caribbean? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
The demand for TEFL teachers in the Caribbean is steadily increasing due to the region's growing tourism industry and the importance of English as a global language. Many countries in the Caribbean rely heavily on tourism for their economy, and English proficiency is a valuable skill for locals working in the hospitality sector. Additionally, there is a growing interest in learning English among students and professionals in the region, creating opportunities for TEFL teachers to work in schools, language institutes, and corporate settings.
To teach English in the Caribbean, most employers require TEFL certification. A TEFL certification demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. While a bachelor's degree is not always... [Read more]
What Is Missing In School English Lessons?
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
The English language is complex, but it becomes even more so when we consider the differences informality. In most classrooms for second language learners, the 'formal' version of English is taught. This is important so that students learn the grammar and vocabulary necessary for proper speaking and writing skills. However, the use of 'informal' language with slang and idioms is just as common in everyday life and can vary depending on the region. Both offer unique benefits to the learner, but only the formal style is generally taught in class.
Formal Language
The Importance of Casual Language
Slang and Idioms
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More often than not, language lessons focus on the formal use and... [Read more]
What is the official TEFL website? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
The British Council estimates there are 1.55 billion English language learners around the world, and at least 10.2 million English teachers.
www.theguardian.com/education/2013/nov/07/tefl-for-british-language-learners
A fair proportion of these learners will be taught in language schools and through private lessons, including online teaching.
There do not appear to be any official figures as to the number of TEFL and TESOL training centers worldwide, but it would be a fair guess to say they number in the thousands.
Most countries in the world control education through government regulation and oversight. This is also true of private education provision. This means that each country's government tends to make the rules and regulations concerning the training standards required of ESL... [Read more]
MUST vs SHOULD - What is the difference? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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Let's take a look at how to use MUST and SHOULD correctly in sentences.
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Since and For - What is the difference? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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"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:
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You’re vs. Your - What is the difference? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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Let's take a look at the difference between YOUR and YOU'RE in English with example sentences.
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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 the highest TEFL qualification? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
When it comes to ranking educational qualifications by their difficulty level, many countries have their own ranking system. For example, there are 9 different levels that courses can be classed as within the UK.
Examples of actual UK qualifications at each level are given below:
The four routes to a PhD
Level 1: GCSE - grades 3, 2, 1 or grades D, E, F, G Level 2: GCSE - grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 or grades A*, A, B, C Level 3: A level Level 4: Certificate of higher education (Cert HE) Level 5: Diploma of higher education (Dip HE) Level 6: Degree with honors - for example bachelor of the arts (BA) hons Level 7: Master's degree, for example Master of Science (MSc) Level 8: Doctorate, for example doctor of philosophy (PhD or... [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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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lucy E. Please note that this blog post... [Read more]
What is the demand for TEFL teachers in the South Pacific? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
The demand for TEFL teachers in the South Pacific region has been steadily increasing in recent years. As English continues to be a global language of communication, many countries in the South Pacific are recognizing the importance of English proficiency for their citizens. This has led to a growing need for qualified TEFL teachers to help improve English language skills among local populations. Countries such as Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu, among others, are actively seeking native English speakers to fill teaching positions in schools, language institutes, and community programs.
To be eligible for TEFL teaching positions in the South Pacific, most countries require teachers to have a bachelor's degree, preferably in English, Education, or a related field. Additionally, a TEFL,... [Read more]
