Spoken Activities

Grammar is undoubtedly one of the most important aspects of the English language. It is the study of how the four main forms of a language: text, sentence, word and sound, are arranged to communicate a message accurately. Even though grammar is one of the crucial areas of English, the importance given to teaching it has been of great debate for some time. Some pedagogical theorists and practitioners question the necessity of teaching grammar and argue that English could be taught to non-native English speakers without grammar having to be the focus of a lesson. In 1622, a schoolmaster called Joseph Webbe argued that grammar could be mastered ?by exercise of reading, writing, and speaking?all things belonging to Grammar will without labour,?thrust themselves upon...  [Read more]

  Connected speech is also an important element of phonology and it's involved in joining words together in an effect to make our speech more efficient. Some might say it's a product of being lazy but nonetheless it's what we all do and we want all of our non-native speakers to speak as naturally as possible, so we have to be aware of these things. Here are a few of the more common examples. We have linking, dropping, changing and extra lettering. An example of each would be with linking, we link our words together so that they almost in effect become one word. Instead of saying ?What do you want to do,? we typically will say ?Whatdoyou want to do?? Then, we can also have dropping. Rather than pronouncing each and every consonant, we can sometimes, especially in certain accents,...  [Read more]

Enhancing speaking and listening skills is essential in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) classes to ensure effective communication and language proficiency. By focusing on these fundamental language skills, students can improve their ability to understand and express themselves in English, leading to greater confidence and fluency in real-life situations. In this article, we will explore the importance of promoting speaking and listening skills in TEFL classes, effective strategies for enhancing these skills, and the role of ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training) in providing professional development for TEFL educators. 1. Importance of Speaking and Listening Skills in TEFL 2. Strategies for Enhancing Speaking and Listening Skills 3. ITTT's Role in Professional...  [Read more]

In order to learn to read either a native or foreign language, the reader must be able to identify words quickly and accurately. This process is known as decoding. Decoding words involves changing what the reader sees printed on a page into spoken language. The reader then decodes the word by sounding it out, using the context around the word for clues about it's meaning. In order to sound out words, a reader must be able to relate specific spellings with specific sounds. Phonics is the process of relating the sounds of the words to their spellings. There are many ways to teach phonics awareness and use. However, most types of phonics instruction focus on the sound- spelling relationships so that the new reader can come up with an approximate pronunciation of the word and...  [Read more]

Immersing yourself in an English as a Second Language (ESL) program can be a life-changing experience that enhances your language skills and cultural understanding. With so many options available, it's essential to choose the best ESL immersion experience that suits your needs and goals. In this guide, we'll explore key factors to consider when selecting an ESL program that will help you make the most of your learning journey. 1. Program Accreditation and Reputation: When choosing an ESL program, it's crucial to ensure that the institution is accredited by reputable organizations. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets high standards of quality and follows a recognized curriculum. Additionally, researching the reputation of the institution and reading reviews from past students...  [Read more]

  In her third video, Chantelle talks about unit 3 of the 120-hour online TEFL course from ITTT. This unit deals with teaching theories, methodologies and techniques. The unit introduces several different methodologies before focusing on the ESA method that is used throughout the course. The unit also covers a range of different activities that can be used in a lesson. It also looks at ways to deal with correcting student mistakes and errors in spoken and written English. 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...  [Read more]

Unlock your potential with professional English grammar lessons in Spain from ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). Whether you are a student looking to improve your language skills, a professional aiming to enhance your career prospects, or an educator seeking to teach English effectively, our comprehensive courses are designed to meet your needs. With a focus on practical skills and real-world applications, our programs provide you with the knowledge and confidence to succeed in today's globalized world. In our English grammar lessons, you will learn essential language structures, rules, and conventions that are fundamental to effective communication. From basic grammar concepts to advanced topics, our experienced instructors will guide you through each lesson, providing you with...  [Read more]

1. Understanding the Challenges of Teaching English in Indonesia 2. Strategies for Effective Communication in the Classroom 3. Using Technology to Enhance Language Learning 4. Conclusion: Empowering Indonesian Students through English Education Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Indonesia presents unique challenges due to language barriers that can hinder effective communication and learning. As an English teacher in Indonesia, it is essential to understand these challenges and implement strategies to overcome them. This article, provided by ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), explores how educators can navigate language barriers to empower Indonesian students through English education. Indonesia is a diverse country with over 700 spoken languages, making Bahasa...  [Read more]

Over the past four decades it appears that the advanced development of computers and the ready availability of this technology have led to an interest in a lexical approach to second language learning versus the more traditional grammar based approach. The Oxford dictionary defines lexical as ?connected with the words of a language?, and grammar as ?the rules in a language for changing the form of words and joining them into sentences?. Two additional terms that are relevant to understanding this new approach is concordances, ?a list produced by a computer that shows all the examples of an individual word in a book?, and collocations, ?a combination of words in a language that happens very often and more frequently than would happen by chance?. One article researched...  [Read more]

Put simply, language is a verbal expression of culture which means that culture clearly has to be seen as an important part of language learning. Although it is important to learn the vocabulary and grammar of English during lessons, to truly grasp what the language means to native speakers it is vital that EFL students learn as much as possible about the culture of English speaking nations. The good news is that students generally love learning about cultural issues, whether it is music, films, books, and TV, or other things such as food or fashion. So, how can we incorporate culture into our EFL lessons to make them interesting and productive? Authentic materials can be anything that native English speakers might use that can be adapted for use in an EFL classroom. This type of material...  [Read more]

Over the past four decades it appears that the advanced development of computers and the ready availability of this technology have led to an interest in a lexical approach to second language learning versus the more traditional grammar based approach. The Oxford dictionary defines lexical as 'connected with the words of a language', and grammar as 'the rules in a language for changing the form of words and joining them into sentences'. Two additional terms that are relevant to understanding this new approach is concordances, 'a list produced by a computer that shows all the examples of an individual word in a book', and collocations, 'a combination of words in a language that happens very often and more frequently than would happen by chance'.One article researched suggest...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers often work in different countries and face different national students. Sometimes, the students keep silent or show no interest on the course content. How to motivate them in the classroom has become a leading concern for teachers. Through my personal experience and TEFL course study, I find some effective ways as below:1. The teacher need know about the students' culture background. We know, every nation has its distinctive clothes and food customs, religious belief, value points and so on. If the teacher gets some information and knowledge, he/she can talk about relative topics in the class, especially, in first class. The students are great likely to communicate on these topics. This is a good beginning for following lessons.2. The teacher must have some ideas...  [Read more]

In September of 2006, I had the opportunity to teach conversational English to graduate students at Huazhong University in China. On the last day of teaching, I asked students to write up an evaluation regarding the activities they liked best. Highlights included: the importance of establishing teacher rapport, the need to provide a wide variety of engaging activities and the value of peer interaction. Establishing rapport between the students and the teacher is a key factor in encouraging students to participate in class. The littlest things?like remembering names -- can make a big difference: ?As a student when you said my name without looking at the name list. I?m so excited and joyful. I think it?s important to a student.? Smiling is another simple thing any...  [Read more]

Unlocking the World with Professional English Language Instruction 1. The Importance of English Language Instruction 2. Benefits of Learning English with ITTT 3. Our English Language Courses 4. How to Get Started with ITTT English is the global language of business, travel, and communication. It opens doors to opportunities and connects people from different cultures and backgrounds. At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we believe in the power of English language instruction to transform lives and empower individuals to reach their full potential. With our professional English language courses, we provide students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in today's competitive world. In today's interconnected world, proficiency in English is more important than ever....  [Read more]

Unlock a world of opportunities by mastering a second language with the help of ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). Whether you are looking to enhance your career prospects, travel the globe, or simply expand your horizons, our online resources provide comprehensive support for language learners of all levels. From interactive courses to expert guidance, ITTT equips you with the tools you need to succeed in your language learning journey. Learning a second language goes beyond just acquiring new words and phrases; it opens doors to new cultures, perspectives, and experiences. With over 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, being multilingual can significantly boost your cognitive abilities, improve your communication skills, and increase your employability in an increasingly...  [Read more]

1. The Importance of Qualified English Instructors 2. Benefits of Tutoring in the United States 3. How ITTT Can Help You Improve Your English Skills 4. Conclusion Are you looking to improve your English language skills with the help of a qualified instructor in the United States? Look no further! At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we understand the importance of having a skilled and experienced English tutor to guide you on your language learning journey. Having a qualified English instructor can make a significant difference in your language learning experience. A knowledgeable teacher can provide you with the necessary guidance, support, and feedback to help you improve your English skills effectively. With the right instructor, you can enhance your vocabulary, grammar,...  [Read more]

Are you ready to take your English language skills to the next level? Look no further than our ESL classes in Chiapas. Whether you are a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an advanced learner aiming for fluency, our courses are designed to meet your needs and help you achieve your language learning goals. Our ESL classes in Chiapas offer a unique and immersive learning experience that sets us apart from the rest. Here are just a few reasons why students choose us: 1. Experienced and Qualified Instructors: Our team of experienced and qualified instructors are dedicated to helping you succeed. With their expertise and guidance, you will receive personalized attention and support throughout your language learning journey. 2. Interactive and Engaging Lessons: Our ESL classes are...  [Read more]

  We are going to move on to the second of the productive skills, which is writing and, again, we'll have look at the background, too, and create a typical lesson for a writing skills session. One of the things to be aware of in a writing skills lesson is that writing tends to be more formal than spoken English. So, there will be some differences between the two, such as writing very often uses less contracted forms and so on, but having said that there are many similarities between the two particular skills. So, many of the considerations that we had for a speaking skills lesson will also apply here to a writing skills lesson. Within writing skills itself there are some sub-skills that we may want to teach and those sub-skills could include, but are not limited to, hand writing...  [Read more]

1. Understanding the EFL Teaching Environment in Lebanon 2. Requirements and Qualifications for EFL Teachers in Lebanon 3. Teaching Opportunities and Job Market in Lebanon 4. Tips for Success in EFL Teaching in Lebanon Lebanon is a country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. With a growing demand for English language education, there are abundant opportunities for qualified EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers in Lebanon. If you are considering a career in EFL teaching in this unique and vibrant country, it is essential to understand the local teaching environment, requirements, job market, and tips for success. Lebanon is a multilingual country where Arabic is the official language, but English and French are widely spoken and taught as second...  [Read more]

Unlocking the Potential of Teaching English to Vietnamese Students 1. Understanding the Challenges 2. Strategies for Effective Communication 3. Cultural Sensitivity in the Classroom 4. Building a Supportive Learning Environment Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) to Vietnamese students can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its unique set of challenges. One of the most significant obstacles teachers face is overcoming language barriers. In this guide, we will explore strategies to help you effectively communicate with Vietnamese students, navigate cultural differences, and create a supportive learning environment. By implementing these techniques, you can enhance your students' language acquisition and foster a positive educational experience. Vietnamese students often...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Benefits of Enrolling in an Online CELTA Course 3. Requirements for Enrolling in an Online CELTA Course 4. Step-by-Step Guide to Enrolling in an Online CELTA Course in Vietnam Are you interested in furthering your teaching career in Vietnam by obtaining a CELTA certification? Look no further - an online CELTA course could be the perfect solution for you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of enrolling in an online CELTA course in Vietnam, provided by ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). Enrolling in an online CELTA course offers a range of benefits for those looking to enhance their teaching skills in Vietnam. One of the key advantages of online learning is flexibility. With an online CELTA course, you can study at your own pace and at a...  [Read more]

Are you considering teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in France? This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about teaching English in this beautiful country. From visa requirements to job opportunities, cultural insights, and teaching tips, this guide will help you navigate your ESL teaching journey in France with ease. Whether you are a seasoned ESL teacher looking for a new adventure or a newcomer to the field, this guide has got you covered. 1. Visa Requirements for Teaching English in France 2. Job Opportunities for ESL Teachers in France 3. Cultural Insights for ESL Teachers in France 4. Teaching Tips for ESL Educators in France Before embarking on your ESL teaching journey in France, it is essential to understand the visa...  [Read more]

For those aspiring to teach English in San Diego, it is essential to possess the necessary qualifications to excel in this field. San Diego, a vibrant city known for its diverse population and strong education system, offers numerous opportunities for English language teachers. To make the most of these opportunities, individuals must meet specific criteria to be eligible for teaching positions. By understanding the qualifications required and taking the necessary steps to meet them, aspiring English teachers can embark on a rewarding career path in San Diego. One of the primary qualifications for teaching English in San Diego is a solid educational background. Most employers look for candidates with a bachelor's degree in English, Education, Linguistics, or a related field. Additionally,...  [Read more]

Vocabulary is a set of words known to a person that are part of a specific language. The set of words are used by a person to construct a sentence and a form of communication needed to interact with another person. Increasing one´s vocabulary is considered to be an important part of both learning a language and improving one´s skills in a language. According to the National Reading Panel, to develop vocabulary, students should be taught both specific words and word-learning strategies. Familiarizing students with vocabulary rich in contexts provided by authentic texts, rather than an isolated vocabulary drill, it can produce a stronger vocabulary learning experience. Knowing vocabulary goes beyond definitional knowledge; it gets the students actively engaged in using and...  [Read more]

'The acquisition of language 'is doubtless the greatest intellectual feat any one of us is ever required to perform.''Regardless of where we come from in the world we all have the innate ability to use language. In the early stages of our lives we will actively seek out ways of interacting with our parents through various methods such as babbling.Over the past 50 years three theoretical approaches to explaining how early language development takes place, namely, behaviourist, innatist and interactionist approaches.It was Noam Chomsky, who in 1983 proposed that language development should be described as 'language growth,' because the 'language organ' simply grows like any other body organ.The vast majority of people are not exposed to 2nd language learning until they are teenagers...  [Read more]

Imagine you are an ESL student who has studied quite hard. You have followed your courses; you have been actively participating in class activities and discussions; you have completed all assignments; you have read your texts. In fact, you feel quite prepared to travel to the English speaking world and use your English skills quite confidently. Your assumption is a logical one. You have had no indication that the proper English you have been taught is missing a large piece of the language: idioms and slang. When you arrive in the new country, you understand most of the conversations but have quite a hard time understanding seemingly nonsensical phrases and words. This is not a situation that should occur. Teachers of English that are native speakers have all the...  [Read more]

Unlocking a World of Opportunities with an Online CELTA Certification 1. The Benefits of Earning a CELTA Certification Online 2. How the Online CELTA Course Works 3. Requirements for Enrolling in the Online CELTA Course 4. Advantages of Choosing ITTT for your Online CELTA Certification The demand for English language teachers continues to rise globally, creating a wealth of opportunities for individuals looking to embark on a rewarding career in teaching English as a foreign language. One of the most prestigious and widely recognized qualifications in the field is the CELTA certification, offered by Cambridge Assessment English. While traditionally pursued through in-person training, the CELTA certification is now available online, providing a convenient and flexible option for aspiring...  [Read more]

Stephen Krashen differentiates between the concepts of language acquisition and language learning in this way: He likens the process of language acquisition to adolescents and young adults living outside of their native country in a year long exchange program where they attain near native fluency but remain unfamiliar with phonology and/or grammar rules. He links the concept of language learning to the traditional approach of teachers/students in classrooms with specific focus on structure and grammar rules. Krashen summarizes, ?Language acquisition does not require extensive use of conscious grammatical rules, and does not require tedious drill.? He further states, ?Acquisition requires meaningful interaction in the target language-natural communication-in which ...  [Read more]

Stephen Krashen differentiates between the concepts of language acquisition and language learning in this way: He likens the process of language acquisition to adolescents and young adults living outside of their native country in a year long exchange program where they attain near native fluency but remain unfamiliar with phonology and/or grammar rules. He links the concept of language learning to the traditional approach of teachers/students in classrooms with specific focus on structure and grammar rules. Krashen summarizes, “Language acquisition does not require extensive use of conscious grammatical rules, and does not require tedious drill.” He further states, “Acquisition requires meaningful interaction in the target language-natural communication-in...  [Read more]

In a traditional English language classroom the student?s curriculum focuses on grammar, reading, vocabulary and rigid repetitive drills. The majority of students I have spoken with find this method to be very dull and boring. If students are not interested in the subject being taught they will lack attention and motivation to learn the language. Language is used primarily to communicate with other people. What is the best method to learn a language? Throughout history people have played games to socialize and interact with each other. Therefore it seems reasonable to assume that playing games in a language classroom can only be beneficial. What does a game consist of? I think that games involve play, competition, rules, and enjoyment. The Merriam ? Webster online ...  [Read more]