TEFL Kelly Ridge

  In her ITTT TEFL review video Kelly talks about how she found the four week in-class TEFL/TESOL course both challenging and rewarding. She speaks about how the course gave her the opportunity to teach the local students while being observed by qualified trainers who provided valuable feedback after each teaching session. 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. In this unit, I learned of the various teaching methodologies that can be used in the...  [Read more]

There are various different methods which are used to teach a second language. One such method is the immersion method of teaching , developed in Canada to provide Canada's majority group English- speaking students with opportunities to learn Canada's other official language, French. Students are taught a second language exclusively throught he medium of the second language.The structured immersion approach, however, must not be confused with submersion (which is really a non-approach). Essentially, it is a ' sink or swim ' approach. For example, a non-English-speaking French child moves to England and is placed in a regular English- speaking classroom and is taught exclusively in English in the same way as the English-speaking children.Bull (1965) drew a distinction between these...  [Read more]

1. The Impact of Full Ride Scholarship Programs 2. Benefits of Full Ride Scholarships 3. How to Qualify for Full Ride Scholarships 4. Top Full Ride Scholarship Programs Scholarships are a powerful tool for students seeking to achieve their academic goals without the burden of financial constraints. Among the various scholarship options available, full ride scholarship programs stand out as the most coveted and prestigious. These programs offer students the opportunity to pursue their education without worrying about tuition fees, room and board, and other expenses. Full ride scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden of college but also provide an enriching academic experience that can shape a student's future. One of the key considerations for students pursuing higher education...  [Read more]

  Alveolar sounds get their name from the fact that the alveolar ridge is being used. Again, that ridge is just behind the front top row of teeth. Here the tongue is on or very very near the alveolar ridge. It's typically the tip of the tongue or what's just behind the tip of the tongue, called the blade of the tongue. Here, we're talking about sounds such as ?t? and ?d?. If you say them at home, you can tell the tip of your tongue is on that alveolar ridge. Again, that's ?t? and ?d?, as well as sounds such as ?s? and ?z?. Again, the blade of the tongue is just near that alveolar ridge but it is very near nonetheless. The two other sounds that make it into this category is the ?l? sound, where the tip of the tongue is very clearly touching that alveolar ridge, as well as ?r? or the...  [Read more]

As a TEFL educator, I have been faced with various challenges in the classroom. Of those that I have encountered, fostering motivation and interest in my students has been the most demanding. As Melissa Kelly states in her recent article on motivating students, '['] motivation is probably the most significant factor educators can target in order to improve learning.' During the time I have spent teaching English, I have realized this. Without motivation, a classroom is dead.According to research findings, there are three significant factors that play into classrommAccording to research findings, there are three significant factors that play into classroom and student motivation: control, competence and connection (Kelly). Kelly refers to these as 'students' needs', and emphasizes...  [Read more]

As a TEFL educator, I have been faced with various challenges in the classroom. Of those that I have encountered, fostering motivation and interest in my students has been the most demanding. As Melissa Kelly states in her recent article on motivating students, ?[?] motivation is probably the most significant factor educators can target in order to improve learning.? During the time I have spent teaching English, I have realized this. Without motivation, a classroom is dead. According to research findings, there are three significant factors that play into classromm According to research findings, there are three significant factors that play into classroom and student motivation: control, competence and connection (Kelly). Kelly refers to these as ?students? needs?, and ...  [Read more]

Classroom management is very important, especially for new teachers, because with it a teacher can gain the respect and attention of their students. Without good classroom management students may lose respect for a teacher and put less effort into their learning. For new teachers, classroom management can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and some advice from experienced teachers it can be easily accomplished. Melissa Kelly lays out a few tips for teachers needing a little advice on how to handle behavior problems and establish good classroom management from day one. Her first tip is to present a discipline plan on the first day of class so that the students know what is expected of them. Kelley explains that ?Once you set a precedent of allowing a lot...  [Read more]

Teaching idioms and slang is quite a subjective topic. I believe that it is an integral part of teaching EFL. I agree with the school of thought that says that slang and idioms are an every day part of our language and it is important that foreign students are aware of the most common forms they are likely to encounter, the appropriate use of these language forms and what is considered to be taboo in polite society. An important matter to consider is that although students can find endless reference books on almost every other form of the English Language, slang and idioms are not considered part of the syllabus and paid no or very little attention. If we do not teach idioms how is a student ever going to cope with phrases such as - To bury the hatchet, to be in...  [Read more]

Teaching idioms and slang is quite a subjective topic. I believe that it is an integral part of teaching EFL. I agree with the school of thought that says that slang and idioms are an every day part of our language and it is important that foreign students are aware of the most common forms they are likely to encounter, the appropriate use of these language forms and what is considered to be taboo in polite society. An important matter to consider is that although students can find endless reference books on almost every other form of the English Language, slang and idioms are not considered part of the syllabus and paid no or very little attention.If we do not teach idioms how is a student ever going to cope with phrases such as - To bury the hatchet, to be in the same boat...  [Read more]

  And now we have our nasal sounds. There are three nasal sounds and basically the pattern of air that's moving out of our vocal tract has to do with two big instances and that is a closure in the vocal tract. Except aside from the plosives and affricates, what we have is air escaping through our nasal cavity. These sounds include ?m?, ?n? and ?ng?. We're moving from the front of the mouth to the back of the mouth. First with the M sound or the ?m?, we're closing both lips and the air is escaping through the nasal passage ?m?. Next we have our N sound or our ?n? sound. There, the closure is inside the mouth but our tongue is closing up near our alveolar ridge and the air is escaping through the nose. Again that's ?n?. Finally we have our NG sound and the closure there is happening...  [Read more]

  This video covers the difference between 'assent' and 'ascent'. As these two words have a similar pronunciation and spelling, their usage is often confused. Let's take a look at the two words individually. 'Assent' is a noun and describes an agreement or an approval of something. He nodded his assent and she continued. As you can see in the example, 'assent' indicates that he is agreeing. We could also say 'He nodded in agreement and she continued.' While the word 'ascent' is also used as a noun, it has a very different meaning. It refers to the action of rising or climbing up, for example: My legs were tired after I took the ascent to the cabin on the ridge. We could also say 'My legs were tired from the climb to the cabin on the ridge'. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT...  [Read more]

  Place of articulation deals with the placement of the vocal organs when producing a sound. Before we can cover the particulars of places of articulation, we'll need to take a look at the various vocal organs and their locations. Moving from the front to the back we'd begin with our lips. We can use both lips in order to create a sound or we can use one of our lips with one of our rows of teeth, usually the top, in order to produce another sound. We also have other sounds, which use both of the rows of teeth. Further back we have what's called the alveolar ridge. That's the bit of the mouth that may get burnt when we're eating a pizza that's a bit too hot and the cheese burns just behind there our top two teeth. That again is the hard bit just behind our top teeth, called the...  [Read more]

Come and join our popular TEFL course in the USA and discover the “land of the free”. Immerse yourself in the country’s diverse culture and get swept away by the breathtaking landscape, the excitement of the big city and the vast amount of activities on offer. ITTT’s TEFL course in the USA will give you the opportunity to learn how to teach English in a country where people come from all over the world searching for the American dream. The USA, one of the largest nations in the world, is a great place to earn your TEFL certification. It is a country with a new adventure waiting around every corner. Throughout this vast country, each region has its own unique flair, with a different climate, new landscapes and more dazzling cities to explore. Combined with the great variety of food,...  [Read more]

Come and join our popular TEFL course in the USA and discover the “land of the free”. Immerse yourself in the country’s diverse culture and get swept away by the breathtaking landscape, the excitement of the big city and the vast amount of activities on offer. ITTT’s TEFL course in the USA will give you the opportunity to learn how to teach English in a country where people come from all over the world searching for the American dream. The USA, one of the largest nations in the world, is a great place to earn your TEFL certification. It is a country with a new adventure waiting around every corner. Throughout this vast country, each region has its own unique flair, with a different climate, new landscapes and more dazzling cities to explore. Combined with the great variety of food,...  [Read more]

If you are looking for an exciting destination to take your TEFL/TESOL course in, choose Georgia! Filled with historic sites, spectacular national parks, and exciting cities, Georgia is a great place to become an English language teacher. Georgia is the last of the original Thirteen Colonies and features quite a collection of historic sites. On top of that, its natural landscapes are also worth noting, especially the northern part with the Blue Ridge Mountains and the east with its splendid Atlantic Coast. Visitors and locals also have the choice between over 60 major parks where they can engage in various different outdoor activities. Atlanta is home to our renowned training school. The center is located in downtown Atlanta and offers convenient amenities. To explore Georgia to the...  [Read more]

Exploring the Undiscovered Gem of Koh Kong Nestled on the southwestern coast of Cambodia, Koh Kong is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. From pristine beaches to lush tropical jungles, this untouched paradise offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beach or thrilling outdoor adventures, Koh Kong has something for everyone. Read on to learn more about this enchanting destination and start planning your unforgettable trip. 1. The Beauty of Koh Kong 2. Things to Do in Koh Kong 3. Where to Stay in Koh Kong 4. How to Get to Koh Kong Koh Kong is a destination that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its untouched landscapes and diverse ecosystems, this region offers a glimpse...  [Read more]

'Practice makes perfect' is a proverb that most of us will know but which I find incomplete. Take for example a father that wants to teach one of his children to ride a bicycle. If he decides to take one day a year to practice, the kid will probably never learn. What about twice a year or once every month' How fast will the child learn to keep equilibrium, steer the handle and brake when needed if the father decides to take one hour every day for the coming month' Only by repeating the same exercise over and over again will the child become accustomed to the skills needed to ride a bicycle. Who knows, in the future he might even use the phrase, 'it's like riding a bicycle, you never forget'.The same theory applies to learning a language, and I believe that the lesson planning...  [Read more]

For the ESL teacher in China, it is vitally important to understand common pronunciation problems the Chinese student has pronouncing English words.Using the internet, one can find several websites that provide important information regarding these common pronunciation problems.First it is important to understand why the Chinese have difficulty pronouncing English.A search on the internet provides the following link: http://exchanges.state.gov/forum/vols/vol36/no1/p37.htm, On this website, Cheng Fanggzhi, an associate professor at Binzhou Teachers´ College in Shandong Province, China has an article titled 'The Teaching of Pronunciation to Chinese Students of English'.According to Cheng Fangzhi, the Chinese students have great difficulty with 'gap' consonants such as:...  [Read more]

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis in Vietnam that effortlessly blends tradition with modernity. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace. Stroll through the vibrant streets filled with markets, street food vendors, and historic buildings to get a taste of local life. Don't miss the chance to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at one of the city's many restaurants or food stalls. Ho Chi Minh City has a fascinating history shaped by centuries of colonial rule and the Vietnam War. Dive deep into the city's past by exploring sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war. Visit the...  [Read more]

Sign up for our TEFL/TESOL training course in Utah and you will have the chance to spend four exciting weeks in one of America’s most fun regions. The state does not only offer exceptional natural wonders but is also rich in history. Red canyons made up of sandstones as well as gushing rivers are the main features of Utah landscapes. Even the Navajo and Ute-Aztec tribes who lived in the area thousands of years ago were drawn in by the mystical vibe that Utah gives off. Come and join our in-class TEFL/TESOL program in Utah and you can explore all that Utah has to offer. When in Utah, you have to visit its many parks. In fact, Utah has seven national monuments, five national parks, three national historic trails, two recreation areas and one national historic site. This means you will...  [Read more]

Discover the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam with this comprehensive guide for first-time visitors. From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in delicious street food, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Find out how to make the most of your trip to Ho Chi Minh City with tips on transportation, accommodation, and must-visit attractions. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Ho Chi Minh City promises an unforgettable experience. 1. Introduction 2. Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City 3. Accommodation Options 4. Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. As the economic powerhouse of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling...  [Read more]

The ITTT TEFL course in Colombia gives you the opportunity to learn how to teach English in one of Latin America’s brightest stars and the gateway to South America. Colombia is a country filled with unique landscapes and innovative cities, cultural and gastronomic delights, and villages surrounded by imposing mountains. It is a country of diversity with places that only exist in Colombia. For lovers of nature and extreme sports, the three mountain ranges of the Colombian Andes are an excellent setting for climbing or walking trails. For water sports, the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Coast offer some of the world’s best surfing and snorkeling, and our lakes and reservoirs in the interior of the country are great for fishing and rafting. Colombia has everything; Caribbean beaches in...  [Read more]

Discover the Exciting World of Teaching English in Siem Reap Siem Reap, a vibrant city in Cambodia, offers a plethora of opportunities for individuals looking to embark on a fulfilling journey in teaching English. Whether you are a seasoned educator or someone considering a career change, this bustling city provides a unique and enriching environment to hone your teaching skills while immersing yourself in a rich cultural experience. The demand for English teachers in Siem Reap is on the rise, with a growing number of language schools, international schools, and private tutoring opportunities available. By becoming a certified English teacher through the International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT), you can equip yourself with the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in the field...  [Read more]

Unveiling the Magic of Santorini's White-Washed Villages, Crystal Blue Waters, and Charming Sunsets 1. Discovering Santorini's Unique Charm 2. Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of the White-Washed Villages 3. Indulge in the Crystal Blue Waters Surrounding Santorini 4. Witness the Spectacular Sunsets of Santorini Santorini, a breathtaking island in the Aegean Sea, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a combination of natural beauty, rich history, and unparalleled charm. From its iconic white-washed villages perched on cliffs to its crystal blue waters and enchanting sunsets, Santorini offers a truly magical experience that will captivate your senses and leave you in awe. Whether you are exploring from a foreign land or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Santorini...  [Read more]

Ban Phe is a sleepy and quaint fishing village 180 km south of Bangkok, perfectly situated along the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Thailand. This coastal village is a friendly one, and offers a direct view into the daily life of the local Thai people. Several excellent Thai and seafood restaurants and many great shopping venues can be found throughout Ban Phe. The pier in Ban Phe is a gateway to the incredible island of Samet. This beautiful island is only a 30 minute ferry ride from town, and has something for everyone - from fun-filled beaches with jet skiing and live music, to tranquil, secluded spots where one can enjoy the sea, sand and sun in complete privacy. Ko Samet is also a great place to do some trekking and discover the wide variety of plant and animal life in Thailand....  [Read more]

You only have to spend a short time in Bangkok to see why it was named as one of the world’s Top Ten Cities by Travel + Leisure and the number one visited city by Global Destination Cities Index. The city is home to a wide variety of quality restaurants, frantic non-stop shopping, pristine temples and Thailand’s best museums. It is a unique blend of modern and traditional life with sleek city malls and floating markets. If you’re into nightlife, Bangkok, or the City of Angels as it is also known, is second to none. Bangkok is arguably the best city in Thailand for Thai food whether you’re eating on the street or at five star restaurants. You can find a taste of each part of the country here as well as fantastic international dishes. ittt’s training centre in Bangkok is a working...  [Read more]

With a population of around 11 million people, Seoul is a thriving, modern capital and is one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Located on both sides of the Han River, Seoul has a fascinating and long history which can be witnessed in the ancient neighborhoods that are nestled amongst the gleaming towers of the city’s current skyline. Despite offering a low cost of living compared to other major cities around the world, Seoul is a thoroughly modern destination with excellent infrastructure. Seoul remains a popular destination for TEFL teachers as it enables them to have a high standard of living no matter which part of the city they choose to live in. Seoul is a cosmopolitan destination with over 700,000 foreigners calling the city home. Multi-national areas such as Itaewon and...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a career that is open to anyone with an excellent standard of written and spoken English, regardless of age, nationality, or academic history. All you need, apart from a solid understanding of the language, is a TEFL or TESOL certification and the drive to make your dreams come true. However, despite all the many benefits that await teachers heading overseas, there are also a few potential issues that you need to prepare for. So what are the main pros and cons of TEFL? Once you have completed your TEFL certification course you will be able to apply for teaching jobs in virtually any country you can think of. If you dream of living and working by a tropical beach, or if a major world city such as Tokyo, Milan, or Rio is your preference, no problem,...  [Read more]

TEFL or Teaching English as a Foreign Language refers to teaching English to students for whom it is not their mother tongue. TEFL can take place in English-speaking regions, for example in language schools or summer camps or before the start of a university degree, but usually occurs in the student´s own country. There, TEFL can be either within the state school system, or private, either in an after-hours language school or with a one-on-one tutor. The teachers may be native or non-native speakers of English. (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)Taking a TEFL course as a non-native English speaker was a great experience, with a wild awakening. Life has a way of bringing surprises, not bad or good, they become what you make them to be, and the outcome depends on how you embrace...  [Read more]

Although Salt Lake City is one of the smaller cities where we offer our TEFL/TESOL training course, it still has plenty to offer those who choose it as their destination. Famous for hosting the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, the city and its surrounding area boasts some of the finest winter sport facilities in the country. The region’s beautiful and rugged terrain also provides an ideal playground for all manner of outdoor pursuits such as hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. As the capital and largest city in Utah, Salt Lake City is equally popular with thousands of less energetic visitors who come to explore the stunning natural landscape from the comfort of their own car or tour bus. Famously founded by Mormon settlers in the 19th century, Salt Lake City has steadily grown from its...  [Read more]