How Old Are Japanese Middle Schoolers

ESLstarter offers you exciting teaching opportunities in some of the world's most incredible destinations. For over 10 years, we have helped people embark on new journeys and achieve life-changing experiences. As previous teachers ourselves, we understand the importance of the getting the journey right. Our highly trained staff all started out teaching English overseas and TEFL is our passion! We truly believe that English language education can transform lives for the better. Teaching abroad also gives you the chance to flourish, inspire and encourage positive change in local communities, wherever you end up traveling to. ESLstarter is a resource for anybody who is interested in teaching abroad. We've helped over 5,000 teachers into TEFL job, internship and volunteer roles since 2008....  [Read more]

Japanese people are known to be well educated. In the case of English, most people have at least six years of English learning experience in school. However in reality, the majority of those people are not able to hold a short, basic conversation in English, even just a few lines of greeting. A language is a communication tool. If you cannot communicate with it, it is pointless to spend so much time and effort on learning it? Thus, clearly something is ineffective in the way that English was taught in Japan to my generation or to the generations who are old enough to prove this inefficient result. In this article, I try to describe the problems that Japanese people have and the appropriate teaching aspects in terms of their English fluency and pronunciation, ...  [Read more]

Japanese people are known to be well educated. In the case of English, most people have at least six years of English learning experience in school. However in reality, the majority of those people are not able to hold a short, basic conversation in English, even just a few lines of greeting. A language is a communication tool. If you cannot communicate with it, it is pointless to spend so much time and effort on learning it' Thus, clearly something is ineffective in the way that English was taught in Japan to my generation or to the generations who are old enough to prove this inefficient result. In this article, I try to describe the problems that Japanese people have and the appropriate teaching aspects in terms of their English fluency and pronunciation, from the...  [Read more]

Using the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style Authentic Materials to Instruct Indonesian EFL Students in the Writing GenresIn 2005 while searching for a program that would allow me to more effectively teach a group of American middle schoolers how to write in stylistically interesting ways across the genres, I purchased the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style materials by Andrew Pudewa. This program delivers excellent results and fits well with the U.S. based Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory Six-Trait Analytical Writing Assessment Model. Currently, it is being used for the first time in Indonesia among ESL and EFL students.Pudewa’s methodology is designed to be used in all grade levels and across the curriculum to teach the writing of structurally sound and ...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word thorough. This word is used as an adjective and means being careful about detail. The word comes from the Middle English word thorow, which came from the Old English thurh. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. When we teach English we have to make sure we introduce the new language in a balanced way, this means we have to balance the introduction of new vocabulary, grammatical structures and...  [Read more]

Teaching English to Japanese students can be very difficult because of cultural and lingual differences. Japanese students are very different from American and European students. An advantage is their tendency to be more reserved and well behaved. However, they do not like to speak in class because they do not want to appear arrogant (Ikeda). This is a cultural custom and it will take extra encouragement to coax the students to talk. Also, students do not like to make eye contact and will become very embarrassed if they do not know an answer (Ikeda). Teachers must be sensitive to these manners in order to conduct a comfortable class for the students. A gradual progression toward a more English style class will be the most productive approach to classroom differences...  [Read more]

In the modern age where working online has become a common way to make a steady living, the opportunities for qualified English teachers have further branched out into what we call the ?virtual classroom?. There are countless online platforms and providers that offer English lessons online allowing students from all over the world to learn how to speak English from the comfort of their own home. There are two main options for online English teachers. The first option is to set up your own teaching website. This allows teachers to be completely independent and free to set their own hours. However, it can take quite some time to find regular students and setting up a professional-looking website requires a certain budget and time commitment. A much more popular alternative, especially for...  [Read more]

This figure depends on a variety of factors including your qualifications, previous experience and the organization you work for. However, a typical hourly rate for online English teachers can range anywhere from $15 and $30. If, like most online teachers, you choose to work through an agency they will most likely take a cut of your pay as a fee for providing you with students and materials. The most popular teaching platforms for teaching English online include: Magic Ears: provides fun, interactive and efficient online English learning experiences to 4-12-year-old children in China. Magic Ears offers pay that is around 30% higher than the average and you can earn between $18 and $26 per hour. VIPKID: focuses on teaching children in Asia. All lesson plans and teaching materials are...  [Read more]

With a huge number of countries to choose from worldwide, English language teachers will inevitably come across a range of pay and benefits that vary from one region to the next. Over 250,000 native English speakers teach English abroad every year, of which a large percentage will receive an hourly pay rate with little in the way of other benefits. Although most will still have a great deal of fun and be able to live a comfortable lifestyle, teachers who find themselves in certain countries might also find that they receive free accommodation during their stay. Two of the world's biggest markets for teaching English abroad are China and South Korea, both of which routinely provide free housing for foreign teachers. The lucrative markets of the Middle East are another area where housing...  [Read more]

  Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. This unit gave a good overview of pedagogical approaches to teaching young learners as well as information on classroom organization, such as the way desks can be arranged. Important skills were covered, productive skills, speaking and writing and receptive skills, listening and reading. The unit ends by breaking up the age group into two in order to point out the differences at which students learn, for...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Teaching Opportunities in Tokyo 3. Qualifications and Requirements 4. How to Apply for Teaching Jobs in Tokyo Are you considering teaching English in Tokyo, Japan? As one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world, Tokyo offers a unique and rewarding experience for ESL teachers. With a high demand for English language education, there are plenty of opportunities for qualified teachers to find employment in Tokyo. This guide will provide you with valuable information on how to find teaching jobs in Tokyo, including qualifications, requirements, and the application process. Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population, making it an ideal location for ESL teachers looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture while gaining valuable teaching...  [Read more]

The state of Oregon is one of the most underrated destinations in the USA as it features amazing natural scenery and exciting cities. On top of that, Oregon is one of only three states in continental America to have a Pacific Coast and offers splendid beaches and charming coastal cities. Add to that the tall mountain ranges and deep forests and you will understand why the Native American, who lived in the area thousands of years ago, called it their sacred land. Oregon is the 9th largest state in America and offers a wide selection of attractions and beautiful destinations to visit. Oregon’s coast on the Pacific Ocean invites you to get in touch with nature and forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are looking for a relaxed weekend or an action-packed getaway, you will...  [Read more]

Unlocking Your Potential as an ESL Teacher in Tokyo Are you passionate about teaching English as a second language (ESL) and looking for exciting opportunities to broaden your horizons? Tokyo, the vibrant capital of Japan, offers a unique and enriching experience for ESL teachers from around the world. With its rich culture, advanced technology, and welcoming community, Tokyo provides the perfect backdrop for both new and experienced teachers to thrive in their careers. In this guide, we will explore the various ESL teaching opportunities available in Tokyo, highlighting the benefits of teaching in this dynamic city and providing valuable insights into how you can make the most of your experience. 1. **Why Teach ESL in Tokyo** 2. **Types of ESL Teaching Opportunities** 3. **Qualifications...  [Read more]

Enhancing English language education in Japan is a critical component of the government's efforts to prepare the country's workforce for the globalized economy. With a growing emphasis on international trade and communication, proficiency in English is increasingly important for Japanese citizens. In response to this need, the Japanese government has launched several initiatives to improve English language education at all levels of the education system. These initiatives aim to equip students with the language skills they need to compete in the global marketplace and to foster international exchange and understanding. This article will explore some of the key government initiatives aimed at enhancing English language education in Japan. 1. Introduction 2. English Education in Elementary...  [Read more]

A few weeks ago I went up to my Japanese friend and told her ?Good Afternoon? in Japanese. She smiled and told me that while correct, Japanese people don?t usually greet each other in that manner. I thought it was odd because that?s the way I learned it back in my university days. She equated it to saying, ?How many times do you greet your friends by saying, ?Good Afternoon? or ?Good Evening??? After thinking about it, I realized that I rarely use the standard ?Hello? or ?Hi? but rather ?Hey? or ?What?s up?? While completely acceptable and understandable for Native English speakers, I didn?t know that this simple greeting could cause a bit of confusion. When I taught English in an elementary school in Korea, I had a co-teacher whose English abilities were quite...  [Read more]

Are you dreaming of teaching English in Tokyo, Japan? Look no further! At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we offer comprehensive courses that will equip you with the necessary skills and qualifications to secure a rewarding teaching position in one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the world. With a high demand for English teachers in Tokyo, there are plenty of opportunities available for both experienced educators and newcomers to the field. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, explore the bustling city life, or simply gain valuable teaching experience, Tokyo is the perfect destination for you. In this guide, we will explore the process of finding English teaching positions in Tokyo, including tips on where to look for job...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Teaching Opportunities in Tokyo 3. Qualifications and Requirements 4. How ITTT Can Help Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, offers a myriad of opportunities for those looking to teach English as a foreign language. With a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Tokyo attracts thousands of expats every year who are eager to immerse themselves in the rich culture and make a difference in the lives of their students. If you are considering a teaching career in Tokyo, this guide will provide you with valuable information on how to find teaching jobs in this vibrant city. Tokyo is home to a diverse range of language schools, international schools, and private tutoring opportunities, making it a prime destination for TEFL and TESOL certified teachers. Language schools...  [Read more]

For each of five countries in each region we will consider factors such as a general statement of opportunity in the region, monthly salary in US$ equivalent and finally a typical current job posting from the region. It is important to view salaries in the context of a typical citizen’s average income. What may appear to be a low salary may in fact put you in a high income bracket (and vice-versa!) All figures were correct at the time of writing but are subject to change. There is a vast range of opportunity from high income first world countries like Japan and South Korea, to less-developed countries throughout the region. Salaries and conditions therefore vary due to those constraints. 11 schools available across Thailand (kindergarten, primary and high school level) You will teach...  [Read more]

In the run up to your departure overseas to teach English there will inevitably be plenty of things to organise. You will probably have one or two leaving parties to attend and you might have to clear out your old apartment and office space. Even if you only have to pack a bag in preparation for your trip, you will still need to consider exactly what you will and won’t need to take with you. Although mobile phones now have improved cameras built in, taking a separate, high-quality camera is certainly recommended. Mobile phones are only as good as the battery that runs them and these can be short lived when using the camera extensively. Bear in mind that many of the places you might visit could be lacking in charging points and you do not want your phone to die on you while you visit the...  [Read more]

Motivation is a paramount factor in determining the success or failure of learning. Very often, students drag themselves to school and find it a chore to study, worse still take on a second language ?C English. As a non native speaker myself, switching from characters into roman letters was an uphill battle. However, ?? want to dispel the myth that learning English is easy and fun for non-native speakers and the secret to it is pure motivation. According to the dictionary, motivation is defined as a reason or cause of action. It can be categorized into extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Extrinsic factors such as rewards and punishment are the common methods in motivating students. If a student does well, the individual is rewarded positively with gifts, money and...  [Read more]

Yes. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is that it can provide a great environment for learning a foreign language. It is no secret that being fully immersed in a different culture, where you are constantly surrounded by a new language, is the most effective way to quickly develop your understanding. Throughout your time living and working as an English teacher abroad, you will inevitably have endless opportunities to practice your language skills. As well as using the language as you go about your daily life, there is also a good chance that you will have access to local language courses that are far cheaper than those available in your home country. Another possibility is the network of friends that you will likely make among the local citizens. Often people are more...  [Read more]

The good news is there is no real age restrictions on who can take a TEFL course and then go on to teach English abroad. At ITTT we do require you to be at least 18 years old to enroll on our courses but there are certainly no upper age limits. Over the years we have successfully trained people of all ages, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers as English language teachers. As long as you are a native or near-native English speaker who is keen to learn new skills and is open to new ideas, then your age should be no barrier to your success. Although a large number of new TEFL graduates are in their 20s, it doesn't mean they are always the most sought after by employers. Yes, there are many employers around the world who are only interested in recruiting younger teachers...  [Read more]

  Marcelo completed the 120-hour online TEFL certificate course with ITTT. In this TEFL review video he describes how the course is great for those who need to fit studying in around their schedule and how the materials he received are still useful to him in his teaching career. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. This unit taught me what a teacher should pay attention to when picking a text or video/audio passage to work with students: topic,...  [Read more]

Many thousands of people every year, of all nationalities and from all walks of life, make the decision to take a TEFL certification course for a wide variety of different reasons. For some it offers the chance to earn a bit of spending money while traveling in far-flung corners of the world, while for others it is a great way to make fundamental changes to their career and life plans. If you are one of the many thousands of others who have thought about studying TEFL, but are yet to act, here are some of the main reasons why we think you should take the leap. Most people have periods in their life when the job they are doing becomes dull, mundane, and all too repetitive. So what better way to shake things up and make a change to the same old same old than by taking a training course that...  [Read more]

  This episode of Chantelle’s TEFL course video diary looks at unit 7. Unit 7 deals with techniques for teaching new language whether this is grammar, vocabulary or functions. The unit provides different ways of teaching new language with sample lesson plans and suitable activities. Chantelle provides a good tip for potential students of ITTT’s online courses, which is to print off the course units as you access them and keep them in a folder so that you can easily go back to previous units and refresh your memory on what you have previously studied. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English...  [Read more]

ESSAY ORGAN'ZAT'ON: In this essay I want to discuss cultural sensitiivty in the classroom. In order to speak intelligently about the topic we first need to to know what we are talking about. Let us begin by defining our terms, beginning with culture. After doing that we can then apply these terms to classroom experience.WHAT IS CULTURE' Anthropologists most commonly use the term 'culture' to refer tot he universal human capacity to classify, codify and communicate their experiences symbolically. This capacity is long been taken as a defining feature of the genus Homo. However, primatologists such as Jane Goodall have identified aspects of culture among our closest relatives 'n the animal k'ngdom. In order to resolve this we can say that symbolic experiences while not exclusive...  [Read more]

  Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. I've experienced teaching adult beginners and kindergarteners in groups, and teenagers individually. For myself, teaching adults was the hardest as they have their own knowledge and perceptions in the English language. Also, gathering people from different backgrounds was also not easy whereas young learners including kindergarten through middle school students are more open to absorb the new language and...  [Read more]

1. Overview of Teaching English in Japan 2. Qualifications and Requirements 3. Finding a Job in Japan 4. Living and Teaching in Japan Japan is a country known for its rich culture, advanced technology, and unique traditions. Teaching English in Japan can be a rewarding experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture while making a positive impact on the lives of others. This essential guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about teaching English in Japan and how to get started on this exciting journey. Teaching English in Japan is a popular choice for many international educators due to the high demand for English language teachers in the country. As an English teacher in Japan, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings,...  [Read more]

English is the 'trade language' of the world'used in over 135 countries to communicate business transactions and international politics. Around 1 billion people in the world speak English. As of the year 2000, 750 million people, 350 million of whom speak it daily, were said to speak English. Millions of world citizens are now using what has been coined, 'Offshore English', to conduct business with other speakers of English as a second language. It has become evident after many failed business deals that native speakers of English must adapt their language to better suit their overseas colleagues.One example of an unsuccessful business venture due to miscommunication is found on Using English.com, in an article titled, 'What is Offshore English'' The article offers an...  [Read more]

  This teaching idea is very similar to the activity we can use for the future continuous. We pair up our students, give them diaries and have them find the day on which both of them are free to meet. This video shows you exactly how to execute this activity in the classroom. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Pronunciation is extremely difficult area, especially in languages far removed linguistically from English. A German most certainly has an...  [Read more]