Target Teacher Appreciation 2024

Free Beach Vacation for March 2025 Guadalajara In-class Course Sign up for the course in Guadalajara, Mexico from 31st March to 2nd May 2025, and you will automatically get a FREE four-day/three-night vacation in fabulous, world-renowned Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The vacation includes accommodation, deluxe motorcoach transportation and leisure time in Puerto Vallarta from 12th to 15th April 2025. Nestled in the heart of Mexico, Guadalajara (the second largest city in Mexico) enchants visitors with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic atmosphere. From the towering Guadalajara Cathedral to the savory delights of birria and tortas ahogadas, the city offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Mariachi music reverberates through its streets, embodying its status as the birthplace of this...  [Read more]

1. The Importance of Cultural Immersion in TEFL 2. Benefits of Cultural Immersion in Language Teaching 3. Strategies for Effective Cultural Immersion in TEFL 4. Conclusion Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is not just about grammar rules and vocabulary; it is also about understanding and embracing the cultural aspects of the language. Cultural immersion plays a crucial role in language teaching as it provides students with a holistic learning experience. By exposing students to the customs, traditions, and social norms of English-speaking countries, educators can help them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the language they are learning. This immersive approach goes beyond language proficiency and equips students with the skills to communicate effectively in...  [Read more]

1. The Importance of Cultural Immersion in Language Learning 2. Benefits of Cultural Immersion for Language Learners 3. Strategies for Incorporating Cultural Immersion in Language Learning 4. Conclusion In the world of language learning, cultural immersion plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall learning experience. It goes beyond just learning vocabulary and grammar rules; it involves immersing oneself in the culture, traditions, and customs of the target language. Cultural immersion provides language learners with a deeper understanding of the language they are studying, allowing them to communicate more effectively and authentically. By experiencing the nuances of a culture firsthand, learners can develop a more profound connection to the language, making the learning process more...  [Read more]

1. The Importance of Cultural Immersion in Language Acquisition 2. Benefits of Cultural Immersion in Language Learning 3. Strategies for Effective Cultural Immersion 4. Conclusion Cultural immersion plays a vital role in enhancing language acquisition. It goes beyond just learning vocabulary and grammar rules; it provides learners with a deeper understanding of the language by experiencing the culture firsthand. When individuals immerse themselves in a foreign culture, they are exposed to authentic language use in real-life situations, allowing them to develop their language skills in a natural and meaningful way. There are numerous benefits to incorporating cultural immersion into language learning. One of the key advantages is the opportunity to practice and improve language skills in a...  [Read more]

Promoting diversity through cultural immersion in TEFL programs 1. The Importance of Cultural Immersion in TEFL Programs 2. Benefits of Diversity in TEFL Education 3. Strategies for Implementing Cultural Immersion in TEFL Programs 4. Conclusion In the field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), promoting diversity through cultural immersion is a crucial aspect of providing a well-rounded educational experience. Cultural immersion goes beyond teaching language skills; it involves exposing students to different cultures, traditions, and perspectives, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and global mindset. By incorporating cultural immersion into TEFL programs, educators can create a more enriching and impactful learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds....  [Read more]

A teacher is one who helps children grow, helps them learn, helps them to discover their own potential and gives them the perfect knowledge and skill they require to succeed as adults. A good teacher should be kind, patient, enthusiastic, be able to motivate students, etc. and it is only through these skills can a teacher be able to manage the classroom well. Classroom management is a skill that develops through time. It requires a teacher to be well organized and systematic in his/her approach to teaching and handling students. Effective classroom management creates a healthy relationship between teachers and students and also a healthy environment for teaching and learning. ...  [Read more]

Although, at the beginning of an English course, students can be very excited and enthusiastic when first confronted with their teacher, the person who will introduce them to a new, fascinating, foreign language, as time goes by the sense of novelty and curiosity that seemed so strong at the beginning, seem to gradually subside in the eyes of the pupils, especially those of young age, leaving the teacher with the sometimes difficult task of re-building their general interest in learning and not least, their level of motivation, which in nearly all warps of life, is the key to success. Motivation, in the field of learning, is a quality that can be more practically viewed by splitting it into three values: ?XPure love of and interest in learning. The more fun and...  [Read more]

Although, at the beginning of an English course, students can be very excited and enthusiastic when first confronted with their teacher, the person who will introduce them to a new, fascinating, foreign language, as time goes by the sense of novelty and curiosity that seemed so strong at the beginning, seem to gradually subside in the eyes of the pupils, especially those of young age, leaving the teacher with the sometimes difficult task of re-building their general interest in learning and not least, their level of motivation, which in nearly all warps of life, is the key to success. Motivation, in the field of learning, is a quality that can be more practically viewed by splitting it into three values: „XPure love of and interest in learning.The more fun and exciting the...  [Read more]

Language learning is a multifaceted journey that involves various skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking. While each of these components is crucial, speaking practice plays a particularly vital role in language retention. By actively engaging in conversations, learners reinforce their understanding of grammar rules, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural nuances. This interactive process not only enhances fluency but also boosts confidence and communication skills. Let's delve deeper into how speaking practice can significantly impact language retention. Speaking practice is often hailed as the cornerstone of language learning for several reasons. When learners engage in conversations, they are forced to apply their knowledge in real-time, which strengthens their grasp...  [Read more]

1. Qualifications for ESL Teachers in the US 2. Education and Certification Requirements 3. Experience and Skills 4. Salary and Job Outlook Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) is a rewarding career path that allows individuals to work with diverse populations and make a positive impact on students' lives. In the United States, ESL teachers play a crucial role in helping non-native English speakers develop their language skills and achieve academic success. To pursue a career in ESL teaching, individuals must meet specific qualifications and requirements to ensure they are well-prepared for the classroom. One of the primary qualifications for ESL teachers in the US is a bachelor's degree in education or a related field. Many schools and employers also require ESL teachers to have...  [Read more]

Understanding the importance of cultural immersion in TEFL training is crucial for aspiring educators who seek to teach English as a foreign language effectively. In this comprehensive guide provided by ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we will explore practical approaches to cultural immersion that can enhance the teaching experience for both instructors and students. From embracing diverse teaching methods to fostering a global mindset, we will delve into key strategies that can help TEFL trainees navigate the complexities of cultural differences in the classroom. 1. Embracing Cultural Diversity 2. Incorporating Local Customs and Traditions 3. Utilizing Authentic Materials 4. Developing Intercultural Communication Skills One of the fundamental aspects of cultural immersion...  [Read more]

There are many different methodologies for teaching a foreign language. Here at TEFL international, we are exposed to the ESA (engage-study-activate) method, put to use in the classroom in a total emersion context, which is quite effective, yet very different from the way that many of us have been exposed to learning a second language in our native countries. Second language study in school in the United States was always done with the ?Grammar translation? method, usually in a bilingual classroom, a different yet somewhat effective way to learn some languages. These are contrasting methods yet they seek the same result, to increase communication skills in a tongue you are not familiar with, and until you are exposed to the both of them it?s hard to say which is...  [Read more]

There are many different methodologies for teaching a foreign language. Here at TEFL international, we are exposed to the ESA (engage-study-activate) method, put to use in the classroom in a total emersion context, which is quite effective, yet very different from the way that many of us have been exposed to learning a second language in our native countries. Second language study in school in the United States was always done with the 'Grammar translation' method, usually in a bilingual classroom, a different yet somewhat effective way to learn some languages. These are contrasting methods yet they seek the same result, to increase communication skills in a tongue you are not familiar with, and until you are exposed to the both of them it's hard to say which is more...  [Read more]

There are a number of methods and approaches for teaching language to non-native speakers. This paper will attempt to compare four popular methodologies: The Grammar-Translation Approach, The Direct Approach, The Audio- lingual Method, and PPP (with ESA as an alternative to PPP). The Grammar-Translation Approach was historically used to teach Greek and Latin. Classes using this approach are taught in the student’s mother tongue, with little active use of the target language. Vocabulary is taught in the form of isolated word lists. Grammar instruction provides the rules for putting words together. Study involves the reading of texts, which are treated as exercises in grammatical analysis; little or no attention is given to pronunciation. 1The Direct Approach was...  [Read more]

There are a number of methods and approaches for teaching language to non-native speakers. This paper will attempt to compare four popular methodologies: The Grammar-Translation Approach, The Direct Approach, The Audio- lingual Method, and PPP (with ESA as an alternative to PPP). The Grammar-Translation Approach was historically used to teach Greek and Latin. Classes using this approach are taught in the student?s mother tongue, with little active use of the target language. Vocabulary is taught in the form of isolated word lists. Grammar instruction provides the rules for putting words together. Study involves the reading of texts, which are treated as exercises in grammatical analysis; little or no attention is given to pronunciation. 1 The Direct Approach was...  [Read more]

There are many different language teaching methods and teaching styles. Diane Larsen-Freeman states in her book Techniques and Principles in Language Teaching, that the term 'language teaching method' is a 'set of links between actions and thoughts in language teaching' (Larsen-Freeman 1). The actions and thoughts of teachers, worldwide, lead to many different teaching styles. Through the TEFL course offered by ITTT, students of teaching learn about the ESA method. Engage, Study, and Activate (ESA) is a great outline of how to run a classroom. Many different styles can be incorporated within this outline, as well.One method, the Direct Method, has been applied for many years by language teachers. The one very basic rule of the Direct Method is that there is no...  [Read more]

Teaching is the highest form of understanding. (Aristotle) A culture is a grouping within which values, norms, beliefs, patterns of behavior, rituals, customs and traditions are shared. To best serve their students, teachers at any level need to be especially sensitive to differences between their own culture and that of their students. This may begin with a careful look at their own worldview. Unintentional biases should never be promoted and are very easily overlooked, especially by the western mind. Changing family composition, socio-economic status, ethnicity, and religion are all areas teachers need to pay special attention to. There is often an inclination among Americans, especially those who have not lived outside their own culture, to be...  [Read more]

Teaching is the highest form of understanding. (Aristotle) A culture is a grouping within which values, norms, beliefs, patterns of behavior, rituals, customs and traditions are shared. To best serve their students, teachers at any level need to be especially sensitive to differences between their own culture and that of their students. This may begin with a careful look at their own worldview. Unintentional biases should never be promoted and are very easily overlooked, especially by the western mind. Changing family composition, socio-economic status, ethnicity, and religion are all areas teachers need to pay special attention to. There is often an inclination among Americans, especially those who have not lived outside their own culture, to be overly...  [Read more]

It would seem as though everyone has their own customized method of teaching; however when these philosophies are reduced some fundamental trends emerge. Since any person's perception and interpretation would individualize these fundamental methodologies (especially once put into practice) I will attempt to focus on the more concrete objective bases of these notions. The specific methodologies I will be discussing include: The Grammar Translation Approach, The Direct Method, Community Language Learning, The Audio- Lingual Method and the Functional-Notional Approach. Grammar-Translation This approach dates back to the late 19th century and was primarily geared towards teaching dead languages- Latin and Greek. The name of the approach insinuates the method, translating...  [Read more]

1. Understanding Cultural Diversity in TEFL 2. Incorporating Cultural Sensitivity in TEFL Lesson Plans 3. Promoting Cultural Exchange in TEFL Programs 4. Fostering Inclusive Classrooms in TEFL Settings Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is not just about imparting language skills; it is also about promoting cross-cultural understanding and respect. In today's interconnected world, where people from different backgrounds interact on a daily basis, it is essential for TEFL educators to recognize and celebrate cultural diversity in their classrooms. Understanding the cultural nuances of their students can help teachers create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. One of the key aspects of promoting respect for diverse cultures in TEFL is incorporating cultural...  [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. During this unit, the method for teaching productive skills was discussed. Productive skills include speaking and writing skills, in which the learners produce the target language, rather than simply interpret the language. A lesson focused on productive skills should still follow an ESA straight arrow (or some variety of ESA) lesson plan so as to promote student growth. Throughout the lesson, the teacher...  [Read more]

It is common knowledge that learning grammar can be a complex process. However, learning vocabulary is not as simple as many assume it to be. And retaining it for a lifetime is not simple at all. One model for learning new vocabulary consists of five stages. Having sources for encountering new words, receiving a visual and auditory image of the word, learning meaning, making memory connections to strengthen recollection and finally, using the words. In many instances, the teacher is given mandatory books and lesson materials to use as resources. Since the final stage of using the words is the result of the middle three stages, those are precisely the stages the teacher should focus on. The author recommends synonym usage to assist in the learning of new ...  [Read more]

It is common knowledge that learning grammar can be a complex process. However, learning vocabulary is not as simple as many assume it to be. And retaining it for a lifetime is not simple at all. One model for learning new vocabulary consists of five stages. Having sources for encountering new words, receiving a visual and auditory image of the word, learning meaning, making memory connections to strengthen recollection and finally, using the words.In many instances, the teacher is given mandatory books and lesson materials to use as resources. Since the final stage of using the words is the result of the middle three stages, those are precisely the stages the teacher should focus on.The author recommends synonym usage to assist in the learning of new vocabulary. So a...  [Read more]

1. Understanding Your Options 2. Benefits of ITTT Certification 3. Specializations Offered 4. Choosing the Right Certification for You Are you considering a career in teaching English as a foreign language? With the increasing demand for qualified English teachers worldwide, obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate is essential. International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT) offers a range of certification options to help you kickstart your teaching career. Before diving into the world of TEFL and TESOL certification, it is crucial to understand the different options available. ITTT provides a variety of courses, including online, in-class, and combined courses, to suit your learning preferences and...  [Read more]

  Adrian from Canada is living and teaching English in Japan. In this TEFL review video Adrian discusses what he and his students have got out of his TEFL course with ITTT. Adrian found that taking the TEFL course was extremely helpful in improving his confidence in the classroom. During his regular feedback sessions with his adult students they have noticed the difference taking the course has made to Adrian’s teaching and are appreciative of this. With his new certification, Adrian intends on staying and teaching English in Japan for the foreseeable future. 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]

Seating arrangements in the classroom have a major impact on the outcome of the performance of each individual student. I firmly believe that strategic seating arrangements will increase the performance of almost the entire classroom if done so with careful planning and consideration. In several of the assignments that I have submitted throughout this course, I mention that a classrooms' seating arrangement should be designed around the level of ability of each individual student. At the beginning of every school year I often wait several weeks to actually put the final seating chart into place. I do this on purpose. The method to my madness is to try and see where the students seat themselves within the classroom. In my experience I find that lower level students...  [Read more]

Quite often, the terms English as a Second Language (ESL) and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) are used interchangeably to describe English language instruction to non-native speakers. However, it is becoming increasingly more well known that the two contexts are quite different, demanding the teacher approach and execute different teaching methodologies in the classes. In an ESL setting, the class is likely to be multilingual and be completely immersed in the language by living in the culture of the target language. On the other hand, in the EFL setting, the class is typically monolingual and living in their own country (Brown 2001).In Teaching by principles, author H. Douglas Brown explains that 'it is useful to consider the pedagogical implications for a continuum of...  [Read more]

Play. Much can be learned in play that will afterwards be of use when the circumstances demand it. 
A tree must also transpire, and needs to be copiously refreshed by wind, rain, and frost; otherwise it easily falls into bad condition, and becomes barren. In the same way the human body needs movement, excitement, and exercise, and in daily life these must be supplied, either artificially or naturally. (1) The first thing that most people think about when they say the word game is fun. Since we were adolescent a game is what we did to entertain ourselves, compete with our friends and enjoy free time. So why not put it into the sometimes dreaded location of a school or even worse an English class? The classroom is one of the best scenarios to have games....  [Read more]

Play. Much can be learned in play that will afterwards be of use when the circumstances demand it. 
A tree must also transpire, and needs to be copiously refreshed by wind, rain, and frost; otherwise it easily falls into bad condition, and becomes barren. In the same way the human body needs movement, excitement, and exercise, and in daily life these must be supplied, either artificially or naturally. (1) The first thing that most people think about when they say the word game is fun. Since we were adolescent a game is what we did to entertain ourselves, compete with our friends and enjoy free time. So why not put it into the sometimes dreaded location of a school or even worse an English class' The classroom is one of the best scenarios to have games. The game gives a...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word "huckster". This word has to meanings an can either refer to someone who sells or advertises something in an aggressive and dishonest manner or to a person who creates promotions for commercial clients, such as for the radio or TV. 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. There are a variety of assessments available for English learners. Before staring a new class, students can take a placement...  [Read more]