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Why are Games so Important for Young Learners? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
When I think of my earliest childhood memories, I remember that I used to love to play games in the classroom (charades, 7-up/head down-thumb up, categories, bingo, etc.). Going from a boring 'copy from the board' type of class to a competitive, fun and activity-filled class gave me the ability to open my mind, so I could find the subject being taught more interesting and made it easier for me to absorb the information. Young learners may not have an interest in studying because they don't yet have any motivation from learning, so they are only interested in games, songs, and other fun activities. When playing most of the games in the classroom, young learners are compelled to communicate with each other for the game to be able to work, and this... [Read more]
Why Games Are So Important in the English Language Classroom - TEFL Blog
Mark Crocker
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Games are one of the most important components in an EFL classroom. Foreign language learning games can be considered as a framework to provide a meaningful context for language acquisition. Students can improve their understanding of written and spoken English via games, as well as learn new words, structures, pronunciation, and spelling, all while having a great deal of fun.
The Versatility of Games in the Classroom
Games Are Not Just About Having Fun
The Many Benefits of Games in the Classroom
Games Are Not Just For Young Learners
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Shiva R.
Games can be used to warm up the class before your lesson... [Read more]
Why is Teaching Vocabulary so Important? - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
Vocabulary represents one of the most important skills necessary for teaching and learning a foreign language. It is the basis for the development of all the other skills like Reading comprehension, Listening comprehension, speaking, writing, spelling, and pronunciation. Vocabulary is the main tool for students to use English effectively. When he/she is confronted with a native English Speaker, when watching a movie or when listening to a favorite song, when reading a text or when writing a letter to a friend, students will always need to operate with words.
Why is vocabulary important?
Techniques for memorizing vocabulary
In conclusion
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Why Teaching Productive Skills is so Important - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Communication is essential for everyday life activities. It's impossible not to communicate. Even when you don't speak a word, you communicate. That's because communication represents the way we express put thoughts, our ideas, and our opinions. It is as much about effective listening and reading as it is about speaking and writing. Communication is built on these four important skills which are divided into Productive Skills (speaking and writing) and Receptive Skills (reading and listening).
In this text, we take a look at the Productive skills which wouldn't exist without the Receptive ones.
People engage in communications for specific reasons:
Accuracy speaking based activities will concentrate on the construction of a language such as:
Fluency... [Read more]
Why Seating Arrangement is So Important in Learning - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Arranging seats in your classroom can be an important task, though it may not seem like it when you first are thinking about it. There are so many different options when it comes to how you can arrange seats. There is the full circle, semi-circle, giant square, U-shape, grouping tables in several desks, two desk pairs all facing forward, or the single file rows facing forward, just to name some of the many you can choose from.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Seating Arrangement
Other Things to Consider
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Brandie K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
All... [Read more]
Why is the Parents’ Role in Education So Important? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Over the years, most parents who are regarded as 'working parents' because they work long hour jobs and those who do not have full-time jobs but other engagements, have seemingly left their children's education in the hands of teachers. However, this should not be the case as parents need to work hand in hand with teachers to ensure the overall good performance of their children.
Moral Support
Assistance
Engagement
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Kaboyaone K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
During my high school years, I got to experience first-hand, the positive impact of parents being... [Read more]
Why is English for Specific Purposes as a Methodology so Effective? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
In 1945, globalization boomed and developing countries in Europe and Africa were quickly realizing that to become technologically advanced, English was the language to pursue as it was establishing itself as the international technological language. The first textbook to be published to educate students in a specified field of English was The Structure of Technical English (Herbert, 1965), which opened the door to the development of textbooks based on register analysis.
LSP and ESP
Development of Special Methodologies
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nicholas P. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions... [Read more]
Why the Chinese Accent is so Difficult to Minimize in English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
As an aspirant teaching English to Chinese children, I chose 'Pronunciation problems of Chinese people' as the most attractive and the most useful topic for my summative task at this moment.
So let's begin from the very beginning.
The Second difficulty in pronunciation is so-called dark L or L's with no vowel sound after them.
How can the teacher help students to correct this?
Different Approaches
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As resources of this joyful and useful research on the internet, I have used three videos on Youtube made by the three experienced teachers of the English language. Only one of them works with children. And only one of them (accent coach from London, Luke Nicholson) gave a lot of live... [Read more]
The 4 Most Important Reasons Why Is English So Challenging for Chinese Learners - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
In this blog post, I plan to examine why English may be such a challenging language for Chinese speakers to master, namely in comparison to their European peers. For the purpose of this examination, I will focus on four main aspects, from quite glaring differences to other aspects that some may not initially consider: written language, grammar, vocabulary, and language exposure.
Chinese does not use an alphabet for written language
Grammatically, Chinese and English stand worlds apart
Challenges with vocabulary
Exposure to English is very limited in China
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These points are drawn from my own experience of living and teaching English in China, from learning Chinese myself... [Read more]
Why Do Chinese ESL Students Have So Many Troubles When They Learn English? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
With English being one of the most widely used languages in the world, many individuals are learning English in China. The learners include children, businessmen, etc. Although the learners have their own reasons for studying English, there are three main problems that the Chinese learners face while trying to learn English.
Drilling vs. Understanding
Exams vs. Communication
Selfishness vs. Open-mindedness
ESL students all over the world need professional teachers!
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ning G.
The first issue is that learners pay too much attention to memorizing a new vocabulary while ignoring the phonetic symbols. In China, memorizing English words is the 'standard... [Read more]
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]
The Global Power of English: Why Do So Many People Want to Learn it? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
One might be forgiven for thinking that English is a ubiquitous language. From the movie industry in the United States to the vast expanse of the internet, it appears that its global standing is exponentially growing year after year. Needless to say, it owes its current position to a British empire that dominated and conquered foreign lands which resulted in countless dominions that spoke the mother tongue on both hemispheres. Its proliferation has ensured that although it might not be the main lingua franca of every region that hosted a queen's flag, it has certainly been used as a secondary language in areas as far away as Asia. In India this is empirically the case where hitherto English would have been the language of the colonial power -... [Read more]
6 Striking Benefits of Games in the ESL Class - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Games are one of the most important components in the classroom. They include activities that have goals and rules at the same fun time. There are lots of benefits to playing games in the classroom. Students can practice important skills by playing an educational game in a small group or with a partner. Whole class games are great means to review skills for a test or at the end of the unit. When students need a brain break or during an inside recess, action games work perfectly. Games can be given for homework to provide fun, engaging and differentiated practice. Games can be played in all subjects and at all grade levels. Games are fun as well as beneficial. Here are important benefits that we should use games in the classroom:
1. Games are motivating... [Read more]
Why Games are an Integral Part of ESL Classrooms - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Learning an unfamiliar language is no easy feat and with the globalization of the English language, more and more people are faced with the task of learning English to better their lives. It is no secret that English is one of the more difficult languages to learn given its many peculiarities and the lack of clues to pronunciation. This makes learning English not only more complicated but often frustrating for students who have difficulties understanding certain concepts. This is where games can have a huge impact.
Motivation and Interest
Confidence
Needs
Useful Materials
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Randi B. Please note that this blog post might not... [Read more]
Why Are Teaching Skills Important? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Learning another language is useful and is also an essential skill for life and work. But what qualities make someone is a good teacher and what skills should they possess? A good teacher needs to have qualities such as caring about teaching, having a passion for learning, and having professional knowledge of their fields of teaching.
Teaching Methods
Body Language
Motivation and Encouragement
Troubleshooting
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Xianjie M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Firstly, the methods most commonly used by good teachers include how to properly manage a class, how to... [Read more]
3 Benefits of Using Online Teaching Resources - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
In today's world, everything is online. Most of the demographic that will be learning English as a second language is very comfortable with being online, in fact, most prefer it. Almost all of our teaching materials will be available online or have supplemental resources that will help with learning that is found online. It is important as a Teacher to find ways that engage the students and create a learning environment that is fun and interactive. It is also important to have access to the latest and most up to date information available, this is done much more effectively thru online resources.
1. Sharability
2. Convenience
3. Variety
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Slang and Idioms: Why They Are Difficult to be Taught? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
As with all living languages, English is constantly evolving, slangs and idioms is an example of that. Slang and idioms are an integral part of written and spoken English; often it is employed by native speakers and has a deeper meaning than the literal phrase. Some might argue that slang and idioms are not 'proper' English and should not be part of the syllabus but people around the world are increasingly getting exposed to Western media. Students might encounter slangs and idioms when consuming authentic materials such as English films and books, where the characters would interact using normal lay speech. Perhaps the students are interested in all these words and phrases that are nonsensical when taken literally and would like to learn about it. The... [Read more]
Why are Games Powerful and Why do We Play Them in Class? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Let's begin with this - classroom activities are useful. Teachers need to use suitable games for students based on their level and that way students can train their vocabulary and language.
While being helpful, the marvelous part is that the games are entertaining!
Applicability
Games ideas
1. Students could be engaged using tongue twister, for example:
2. In the middle of the class when students are lacking concentration teachers could use 'turntable' game, for example:
3. By the end of the class where there is still time left, teachers could use the game to review what students have learned, for example, they can do it using 'roll the dice' game like this:
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The Importance of a Lesson Plan and its Structure - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Standing in front of a class, a teacher procrastinates by asking each student random questions and scribbling on the board, but something is wrong. The students seem restless and the teacher looks uncomfortable. The teacher then springs into action by quickly shuffling through a stack of papers on their desk while the students look around blankly at one another. Their attention is dwindling.
"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." - Benjamin Franklin
Misconception
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Bryce W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Be prepared, and be ready! When teaching,... [Read more]
Why are TEFL teachers important? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
TEFL teachers hold a unique and vital role in global education. While all educators contribute immensely, TEFL teachers address the specific challenges of teaching English as a second or foreign language. Their specialized training equips them to effectively teach in environments where English isn't the primary language, helping learners overcome linguistic barriers and bridging cultural divides. Their importance stems from their ability to foster communication and understanding in our increasingly interconnected world.
Working knowledge vs Formal Knowledge
What are the training options to become a TEFL teacher?
Types of employment
Summary
Globalized industry has led to an explosion of the use of English as the lingua franca. This trend looks as though it will continue in the near future.... [Read more]
Reasons Why Student-Teacher Relationships Are Important - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Learning a new language can be a daunting task. It requires a lot of studying, practicing, and participation in order to fully comprehend and be able to use a new language. That is why people who want to learn a new language prefer to take a class on it instead of trying to learn it themselves. Taking a class on the English language can help build a student's confidence and motivate them. It is especially important for an English teacher to develop a rapport with their students because English students need to feel comfortable with the person teaching them their new language skills.
Student's Comfort
Ways to Establish Rapport
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Why Carefully Selecting Course Materials are Important - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Course materials are the foundation of an English as a Second Language class, as they are a key component for moving the course forward and are essential for the student's success. Thus, the materials that an educator selects significantly impact the outcome of the course for teachers and students. Whether choosing a textbook, authentic materials, or created materials it is important for the teacher to consider the benefits, disadvantages and how best to use the materials they have selected. This ensures the creation of an engaging program where they, as educators, may grow along with their student's English language abilities.
Considering coursebook advantages and disadvantages
Selection of authentic materials
Creative ideas for hand-made materials... [Read more]
Why Reading and Listening Skills are Important? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
It is well-known that when we learn any language, listening, speaking, reading and writing are all important during language learning. Why do we learn a language the final goal is to communicate with others. Today I'd like to talk about the importance of learning reading and listening. The reasons for reading and listening can be contributed to the following parts. Firstly, we may read or listen for a particular aim or goal. Secondly, we may for entertainment, such as listening to their favorite songs and so on.
Listen to this blog post:
Ways to Learn
Anticipated Problems
Personal Experience
Forming Good Habits
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Why Games Are Important in the Classroom - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
Learning English as a foreign language can sometimes become overwhelming. When people seek to learn English, their reasons can vary immensely. It could be because they want to travel to an English-speaking country, or it is possible that they are interested in English literature, or maybe it's their job requirement. In any case, their time in the class is important to them. Besides lots of expectations, there are also many inhibitions to overcome, and little time. Games are the most powerful tool to help release pressure, boost motivation and create a fun, friendly, positive learning environment.
Games are very effective to increase confidence.
Games can be used to practice target vocabulary and grammar.
Games bring students together.
Are you ready to... [Read more]
Why Games in the Classroom are Effective - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Teaching English as a foreign language with little to no experience is a daunting task and one that should be seriously considered. There are many aspects to teaching that I was expected to know and implement while teaching English in another country. I had to learn how to teach in about two weeks and although I learned many techniques and strategies, one of the most important tools and one of the most effective was including games in the classroom.
Games as a tool for learning
Applicability
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Patricia C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
I was slightly skeptical... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Why Teach In Korea - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Why teach in Korea?
First the Facts
2/3 of South Koreans aged 25-34 have college degree and take mandatory English classes.
Koreans are obsessed with education to enable the best future for their children South Korea provides top salary to their teachers and has the highest average reading literacy of the OECD
Salary for foreign English language teachers
English teachers in Korea can expect to make between $1,300 and $3,000 per month. Depending on the type of educational institution, the salary varies enormously:
Public Schools: 1.5-3 million won, or $1,265 - $2,500 USD, per month.
Private Language Institutes: 1.9-2.3 million won, or 1,600 - $1,940 USD, per month.
Universities: 2.3 - 3.5 million won, or $1,950 - $2,950 USD, per month.
International Schools: 1.8 - 2.8... [Read more]
Answering the Question on Why Motivation is Necessary for the Classroom - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
What is the key objective of a teacher? It is simple: ensuring students learn well and don't forget what they were taught a few minutes after a course ends.
Teacher's proficiency
Research in the field
Proof of the findings
First impression
Useful recommendations
1. Teacher's personal attitude
2. No boredom in the ESL classroom
3. Realistic goals
4. Classroom environment
5. Self-assurance
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Cinzia G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Solid and comprehensive knowledge of the subject a person is teaching is a very important piece of the puzzle. Students have the... [Read more]
Grammar as a Foundation for Skyscrapers - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Nowadays, an increasing amount of people have taken on a liking on English for various purposes, thus causing heated discussion about learning English, grammar learning especially. Some contend that we shouldn't learn grammar. While others attach great importance to English grammar.
Grammar as a foundation
Grammar as a game
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Personally speaking, English grammar is of great essence like the foundation for the skyscrapers. Everyone who wants to master a language must have a solid grammar foundation.
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Hóng Méi Z. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.... [Read more]
International Popularity of the English Language - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
What awaits us in the future? What will society look like in the future? What will it look like in 10 years? What will it look like in 100 years? Can you imagine a world without English?
English has become a global language
Why is English so popular?
In the modern world, English has become even more popular for several reasons
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Oksana F. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
This is an obvious fact. Its influence has grown exponentially in the world. Because of new technology, business, travel, and the English language the world seems to have become smaller... [Read more]
4 Reasons Why Japanese Students Are Often Lacking Motivation - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Japanese learners of English face challenges which are based on background and cultural aspects, racial barriers, perception of the English language, as well the lack of freedom of expression. This becomes the basis on which their motivation, or lack thereof, to study English is built. Coming from a motivational background, I was self-assured that my plans to get my low-level High School students motivated about learning English would be less challenging to implement. Reality proved otherwise as this process has required the breaking of certain barriers in order for me to be successful in my endeavors. Following is a further explanation on each of the different challenges which I have observed to be the cause of the lack of motivation amongst many... [Read more]
