What Should Teachers Wear

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]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This is a fun worksheet to write about the weather and what pieces of clothing you wear depending on the weather.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The experience of living and working abroad for sure will give us another vision of the world. If you have been in China, enough you will learn to be more patient and tolerant. Live with another culture is not easy, and we learn how to be flexible. We are different, we live differently, our environment is different, our beliefs, our politeness, our food, etc. Habits and Traditions Performance Evaluation Responsibilities Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ana P. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. "Good morning, how are you today? "- They have never asked each other how are they? Instead, they...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas It is critical and necessary, that as purveyors of educational content, a teacher ensures they undertake periodic analysis of their methods, rationale, and motivations for the job. Periodic self-analysis is important, as it can be one defining factor in what separates a "good" from a "great" teacher. In my experience as a teacher, I have often used a teaching log to note my findings and experiences in the classroom. Brookfield (1995) defines a teaching log "as a weekly record of the events in a teacher's life that have impressed themselves most vividly on his or her consciousness"(p.72). In this paper, I present four main ideas, based on experience, in favor of a critical self-analytical method and the use of a teacher's log to enhance the teaching...  [Read more]

When teaching English as a foreign language abroad, it is crucial for TEFL teachers to have a deep understanding of the cultural differences that exist between their home country and the country they are teaching in. This includes knowledge of traditions, beliefs, values, social norms, and customs. By familiarizing themselves with the local culture, teachers can avoid inadvertently causing offense or misunderstanding their students' behavior. It is also important to be aware of the cultural context in which the English language is being taught, as this can influence the way students learn and use the language. Respecting cultural norms is essential for TEFL teachers working in a foreign country. This includes being mindful of appropriate dress codes, body language, gestures, and forms of...  [Read more]

Experienced teachers looking for a TEFL certification program should first assess their needs and goals. Consider whether you are looking to specialize in a particular area, such as teaching young learners or business English, or if you are seeking to enhance your overall teaching skills. Understanding your objectives will help you choose a program that aligns with your professional development goals. When selecting a TEFL certification program, it is crucial to consider the accreditation and recognition of the institution offering the course. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable organizations such as the British Council, Cambridge English, or the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of...  [Read more]

When teaching English as a foreign language abroad, it is crucial for TEFL teachers to be aware of and sensitive to the cultural factors at play. Cultural sensitivity involves understanding and respecting the beliefs, values, norms, and customs of the local population. This awareness is essential for creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel respected and valued. TEFL teachers should take the time to educate themselves about the cultural nuances of the country they are teaching in, including language, gestures, taboos, and social etiquette. By demonstrating cultural sensitivity, TEFL teachers can build trust with their students and foster a more effective learning experience. One of the challenges TEFL teachers face when teaching abroad is adapting their...  [Read more]

1. What is a CELTA course? 2. Who should take a CELTA course? 3. What to expect during a CELTA course? 4. How to choose the right CELTA course? The CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) course is an internationally recognized qualification for those looking to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). It is awarded by Cambridge English Language Assessment, part of the University of Cambridge. The course provides practical training for teachers and covers essential topics such as language analysis, teaching methodology, lesson planning, and classroom management. The CELTA course is ideal for both native and non-native English speakers who are looking to start a career in teaching English as a foreign language. It is also suitable for experienced teachers...  [Read more]

Before embarking on a journey to teach English abroad, it is important to understand the qualifications and requirements needed for this role. While specific requirements may vary depending on the country and institution, a bachelor's degree is often a minimum requirement. Additionally, many schools prefer candidates with a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. These certifications provide essential training on language teaching methodologies, classroom management, and lesson planning. Some countries may also require a teaching license or previous teaching experience. It is crucial to research the specific requirements of the country you are interested in teaching in to ensure you meet all qualifications....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The Oxford dictionary defines punish as "inflict a penalty or sanction on (someone) as retribution for an offense, especially a transgression of a legal or moral code". Using this definition, the short answer to the question, "should a teacher punish students for bad behavior?" is yes! State of Thing Classroom Relationship Why do students misbehave? Actions to punish for Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Bevan S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. However, there are many facets to the dynamics that exist in a classroom that should prevent a teacher from having a 'black or white' approach to...  [Read more]

When choosing a TEFL certification program as an experienced teacher, it is crucial to prioritize programs that are accredited and recognized internationally. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable bodies such as ACCET, CELTA, or Trinity College London. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of quality and will be recognized by employers worldwide. Additionally, consider programs that are affiliated with professional organizations in the field, as this can further enhance the credibility of your certification. Experienced teachers should seek TEFL certification programs that offer specialization options and advanced training in specific areas of interest. Look for programs that provide modules or courses focusing on teaching advanced grammar, business...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas A Lesson plan has many important attributes which most definitely will assist the teacher in teaching (even though there have been theories about lesson planning arguing that it might not be flexible for the students). There is no doubt that coming to class prepared is essential whether with a lesson plan or without. It is very helpful for inexperienced teachers especially those who may lack direction. Reasons to Write a Plan General Suggestions What to Include Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Amelie R. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. There are three functions for writing a lesson...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Establishing rapport with students is a crucial part of any successful teacher because it allows teachers to teach their students more effectively and in different ways. Rapport is defined as, "the ability to maintain harmonious relationships based on affinity...is more colloquially thought of as what happens when two people "click"—they connect, interact well, and respond to each other favorably" (Weimer, facultyfocus.com). Connection Motivation Communication Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Dominic D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. This "click" is the ability of a teacher to...  [Read more]

When teaching English to absolute beginners, it is pivotal to start with foundational elements. Begin with essential vocabulary - items like family names, household objects, basic adjectives, and common places. Introduce them to subject pronouns, commonly used verbs, and foundational sentence structures. While the challenge is real, many English teachers find this level especially rewarding. Remember, every word they grasp is a significant achievement, so using engaging and interactive methods can make the learning process enjoyable and effective. How do I start teaching English to total beginners? How do I teach English pronunciation to total beginners? How do I quickly build vocabulary for complete beginner students of English? How do I teach English grammar to complete beginners? ...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Let's take a look at how to use MUST and SHOULD correctly in sentences.   Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

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]

Ahmed Taha Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Between school and spare time, the majority of kids participate in one or more extracurricular activities. Through these classes and programs, kids and teens can learn about extracurricular activities such as sports, the arts, special interest groups, and technology, to name just a few. School activities can help to: Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! If you and your family already have a packed schedule, you might be dubious about the benefit of extracurricular activities. The idea that extracurricular enrichment activities enhance students' social and intellectual skills is well supported by a wealth of research. Thankfully, there are...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences According to the website "Master in special education degree program guide," the most common learning disorder is Dyslexia. The condition affects 10% of the global population, which translates to roughly 2 to 3 children in every class. Many types of dyslexia can interfere with different basic learning skills, such as reading, memorizing, learning a foreign language and some may also have trouble understanding jokes or expressions. Depending on the person, the impact on skills will be different. The psychological explanations for Dyslexia involve the cognitive understanding of short- and long- term memory, which suggests the idea that people with Dyslexia have a shorter phonological loop span than non-Dyslexic individuals. Psychological Understanding...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Every teacher wants to be good and effective when it comes to teaching, but what exactly are the qualities that make a good teacher? Are there specific characteristics, talents, and skills that a teacher needs to learn and acquire to be called a good and effective teacher? Teaching Myths Teaching Style and Important Qualities 1. Knowledge of the Subject 2. Being Approachable 3. Being Caring 4. Being Respectful 5. Being Passionate Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Listen to this blog post Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sherry Ann G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Effectiveness in teaching is an elusive idea. How can we tell...  [Read more]

When teaching English as a foreign language abroad, it is crucial for TEFL teachers to be culturally sensitive. Understanding and respecting the cultural norms, values, and beliefs of the students is essential for effective communication and learning. Cultural sensitivity involves being aware of different communication styles, body language, gestures, and social customs. TEFL teachers should make an effort to learn about the local culture, traditions, and history of the country they are teaching in to create a positive and inclusive learning environment. TEFL teachers need to adapt their teaching methods to accommodate cultural differences in the classroom. Teaching styles that work well in one culture may not be as effective in another. It is important to be flexible and open-minded when...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences .As I learned from the 50-hour CTBE course, teaching business English always involves one-to-one mode. Imagine there is a student who is a high profile business person in China. He needs to learn English for his own Business work and he prefers one-to-one lessons. Then, what traits should an EFL teacher have in order to get this teaching job? In this essay, I would like to use this case to discuss some attributes that a businessman would seek in an EFL teacher and why he would demand those traits. English language + business knowledge Good teaching background and practice Knowledge about the business industry Manage your classes well Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas ESL teachers can find themselves in various classroom situations. An ESL class may be advertised or posted on signs for students to show up at a learning center on a particular night. When the students arrive, they are most probably tested and grouped according to language level. What happens if many students are at the same level, but there is one student who is on a completely different level and has different needs? Other scenarios may put teachers in a situation where they are teaching one-to-one. Possibly, there is just a desire to tutor English language learners in a more personal setting. What are the advantages and challenges of teaching one-to-one? Listen to this blog post: Rapport Circumstances Stress Level Flexibility Do you want to teach...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas ESL classroom is quite a sensitive place. Students can quickly get excited about what they learn if a teacher finds the right key to their motivation. However, sometimes ESL teachers may unconsciously use words that could hurt students intensely. Listen to this blog post: 1. You are not good at English. 2. Stop! You're doing it all wrong! 3. Good Job! You tried your best! 4. Don't give up! Keep trying and you'll understand English grammar. 5. Have you noticed your mistake? 6. It's ok if you can't do it. 7. Someone is better than you in English. 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! Read on for the top 7 things that ESL teachers...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in a different country can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its challenges. One of the most important aspects for TEFL teachers to be aware of is cultural differences in the classroom. These differences can manifest in various ways, such as communication styles, attitudes towards authority, and learning preferences. It is crucial for teachers to educate themselves about the cultural norms and values of the country they are teaching in to ensure effective communication and a positive learning environment for their students. Building strong relationships with students and colleagues is essential for a successful teaching experience abroad. In many cultures, relationships are valued more than tasks or deadlines, so taking the time...  [Read more]

Crafting an impeccable TEFL resume is your first step in making a lasting impression with potential employers. A well-constructed resume not only showcases your qualifications but also sets you apart from a sea of applicants. Essential components of a standout TEFL resume include: Your TEFL resume is a pivotal tool to showcase your expertise and commitment to English language teaching. Ensure it is well-organized, updated, and tailored to the position you are applying for. Personal Information Photo Education and Qualifications Employment Other Information Final Checks The first thing to realize here is that in most countries around the world there are less restrictions on personal information than in the USA. In many cases, international employers will expect to find out more from your...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Anyone can be a teacher but not every teacher is likable or caring. I found in my experience as a student, especially as a child, I would find myself dreading the classes with the teachers that had bad attitudes and would look forward to the ones who not only kept the class interesting but showed true interest in the student's lives. The truly talented teachers would take examples of scenarios people had discussed from their personal lives and use it as a tool in their teaching strategies. Teachers' types Classroom environment Competence Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Priscilla L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences All people are susceptible to boredom and confusion. Either of these or their combination can lead to frustration. Once frustrated, a learner will find it exponentially more difficult to grasp or retain new information. The student's mind will be elsewhere, unmotivated and uninterested. Therefore, an instructor should make it a priority that each and every student can not only understand the created material but be interested in it as well. Materials for learners with different interests Teaching materials for younger learners Teaching materials depending on the topic Where to find useful materials? Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Patrick O. So...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas The following activities may be adapted for use as warmers, engage activities, structured practice or free practice style activities. They may also be adapted for level and age. 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! The first one is really simple but can be one of the best activities to improve grammar. Some students even at the higher levels are lacking automatic habits, which are really important for grammatical skill. Basically this activity is a grammar drill and it is supposed to be used as a warmer or as an ice-breaker activity. The main objective is to help your students automate some grammatical...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore TEFL Information We admire them and now we want to be them but what are those fundamental qualities that make teachers so great? Drawing on decades of experience of working with TEFL teachers across the globe, we have listed the top 10 qualities every great teacher should have below. 1. They're glowing and inspiring. 2. They plan it all out. 3. They are patient. 4. They are challengers. 5. They are creative. 6. They are great talkers. 7. They know their stuff. 8. They are flexible and adaptable. 9. They show and receive respect. 10. They are professional. Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Great teachers love what they're doing. They are passionate about their subject and do their best to bring it through to the students....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences If you're thinking about starting your EFL teaching career, the first thing you should do is taking a TEFL course. It helps you decide where to teach, as it contains information about differences between students from different countries and regions, i.g. Asia and Latin America, as well as information on how to work with students' cultural backgrounds. Reasons Course Structure Language Training Teaching Skills Job Research Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Vladimir P. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. If you have prior experience in teaching, though it's useful to refresh your knowledge...  [Read more]