What We Celebrate Halloween

Motivation is fuel for learning. What motivates us to learn what we know' The answer to this question creates a foundation for our subject matter, which in the end will determine the permanence of that knowledge. As TEFL teachers, we should all look at our own experience as students and analyze what motivates us in a classroom. Let’s look to personal experience for evidence of the impact motivation has on the permanence of a foreign language and examine three main motivators for learning a new language: recognition, curiosity, and necessity. In school, we study for recognition. When I studied French at the university, I memorized many terms simply for the grade I desired; however, I was not able to communicate with French people I met. For many students the...  [Read more]

  So, the document itself needs to contain some general information about the class, for example the name of the teacher, the date and time of the lesson, what level of class is being taught and in what room, how many students are we expecting, this is important, when we've got things like photocopying and materials to do, what is the context of the lesson, in other words, what is the lesson actually about, what vocabulary or grammar point is this lesson covering and sometimes it's also useful to write out what the focus of the lesson is. So, in effect, the context of the lesson is telling us the grammar point, for example, that might be the present continuous tense, whereas the focus is telling us how we're going to go about teaching it. Another example to illustrate this: Let's...  [Read more]

  We now consider what we might call the technology that we could use within the classroom then that could include things such as cassettes, the use of CDs, the use of DVD and video. Some general issues surrounding the use of these types of material, make sure whenever you're using any of this type of technology though you know how it actually works when using it for a listening activity, for example. How long does it take for the whole tape to play through? How long does it take to rewind and so on. Other issues that you might need to think about is if you're using a cassette player or CD or something that you set the volume level before you actually start the lesson so that when you switch on you don't shock everyone with a very loud sound or that they can't actually hear it....  [Read more]

  Then, we have a set of objectives and aims. Here, the learner objectives relate to what we're hoping the students are going to be able to do by the end of your lesson and quite often, that can be a useful way of writing out what the objectives are. So, we would start the sentence "By the end of the lesson, students should be able to?" and then a list of two, three or four items that we're expecting the students to be able to do by completing this lesson. The learner objectives are different to the teacher aims the teacher aims are what you are expecting from that lesson itself. Now, when you first start teaching, quite a normal aim might be to complete the lesson successfully, to get through the whole thing without having any problems. As time goes on and you become more...  [Read more]

  Before we go into looking at the actual receptive skills lesson, if we were thinking about what potential problems there could be in these lessons. So, what things could go wrong in a reading lesson? Well, firstly the students when they are reading in a language that is not their native language, they tend to read every word as a separate piece and by reading word to word it?s very difficult to get an overall impression of what that particular text is saying. Secondly, the sentence length in a lot of articles that we will get will be very long and many of our students will not be used to that structure of language. So, here it's important to have a think about the way in which the text has actually been written and will it be fairly easy to read. The final thing is the actual...  [Read more]

Although you are free to sign up for any course that catches your eye, there is one thing you should always bear in mind: the minimum qualification required by most ESL employers worldwide is a 120-hour TEFL certificate course. The good news for our trainees is that there are a number of ways in which this can be achieved with ITTT. The first distinction in TEFL course type depends upon whether you want to travel to a training center to complete your studies or stay at home. If you wish to travel, then an ‘onsite’ course is best for you. Should you wish to complete your training at home then an ‘online’ course is best. The four-week 120-hour TEFL certification course can be completed at one of many locations spread across the globe. As the name implies, you attend the training...  [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]

The payment schedule for TEFL/TESOL certification courses varies depending on the provider, but here are some common practices: Payment Options: You can make payments for your TEFL/TESOL certification through various methods, depending on the course provider. Here are some common ways to make payments for your teacher training: Payment methods accepted for TEFL/TESOL certification courses may vary depending on the institution or provider. However, common payment methods typically include: Yes, many TEFL/TESOL certification providers offer the option for installment payments to make the course more accessible to a wider range of students. When considering installment payments for your TEFL/TESOL course, it's essential to understand the terms and conditions that may apply. Here are some...  [Read more]

  For statements in the negative form, what we have to do is add the auxiliary verb 'to do'. For subjects 'I', 'you', 'we' and 'they', we simply leave 'do' as 'do', use the word 'not', and keep the base form of the verb now for the negative statements. However, for 'he', 'she' and 'it', we have to conjugate our auxiliary verb into 'does'. We still use 'not' and we still keep the base form of the verb. The pattern performing questions is very very similar to the pattern performing negative statements. However, what we've done is invert our subject and our auxiliary verb so that the questions read the auxiliary verb first. Of course, again, we use 'do' for 'I', 'you', 'we' and 'they' and use 'does' for 'he', 'she' and 'it'. In both cases, we've left our verb form as the base form of...  [Read more]

Popular Teaching Resources for Language Teachers: You can access free teaching resources online by utilizing various platforms and websites dedicated to providing educational materials. Here are some ways to find free teaching resources online: Yes, there are several teaching resources recommended for new teachers to enhance their effectiveness in the classroom.  [Read more]

A good TEFL course should include a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare you for teaching English as a foreign language effectively. Here are some key components that a quality TEFL course should cover: A high-quality TEFL course should include the following key components: Comprehensive Curriculum: Practical teaching experience in a TEFL course is crucial for several reasons: Yes, job placement assistance services are often included in TEFL courses to help graduates secure teaching positions after completing their certification. These services can vary depending on the provider but generally include:  [Read more]

Essential items to pack for teaching and traveling abroad include: Packing efficiently for teaching and traveling involves careful planning and organization to ensure you have everything you need while keeping your luggage manageable. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently: When packing for teaching and traveling internationally, consider the following:  [Read more]

To become a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) teacher, you will need qualifications and training. Here is what you need: To obtain the necessary training for a career in TEFL/TESOL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language/Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), you can follow these steps: Yes, there are specific certifications required for teaching English as a foreign language. In the field of TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), having a recognized certification is often necessary to secure teaching positions, especially in reputable schools and institutions. Here are some common certifications required or preferred by employers:  [Read more]

A combined TEFL course typically refers to a program that includes both online and in-person components to provide a comprehensive training experience for future English language teachers. Here is some additional information on combined TEFL courses: A combined TEFL course typically lasts between 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the program and the number of hours included. Here are some additional details regarding the duration of a combined TEFL course: Yes, a combined TEFL course is suitable for beginners in teaching English. A combined TEFL course, which typically includes both online modules and in-person teaching practice, can be beneficial for beginners in teaching English for several reasons:  [Read more]

There are several work visa options available for individuals seeking to work in a different country. Here are some common types of work visas: To obtain a work visa, you typically need to meet specific requirements set by the country where you intend to work. While the exact requirements can vary depending on the destination country, there are some common criteria that are often needed: A work visa application processing time can vary depending on various factors such as the country where you are applying, the type of work visa, the efficiency of the immigration office processing the application, and any specific requirements or complications. Here are some general guidelines to consider: Yes, in some countries, you can apply for a work visa without a job offer. This process is known as a...  [Read more]

Other differences you should expect in TEFL/TESOL certification programs include: Common variations in TEFL/TESOL certification programs include: Variances in teaching styles, classroom management techniques, and curriculum content can significantly impact the overall experience in an educational setting. Here's how these variances can influence the learning environment: Key distinctions in TEFL/TESOL training and certification are important to understand. Here are some key points to be aware of:  [Read more]

VIPKid, like many online teaching platforms, has specific requirements for teachers beyond just a TEFL/TESOL certification. In addition to holding a bachelor's degree, being eligible to work in the U.S. or Canada, and having experience working with children, VIPKid also looks for the following criteria: To become a VIPKid teacher, you need to meet certain requirements: To work for VIPKid, you need to meet the following qualifications: To prepare your application for VIPKid, follow these steps:  [Read more]

Skills and qualifications needed for TEFL/TESOL: To teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), certain skills and qualifications are essential. Here's what you need: Certifications required for teaching English as a foreign language: To teach English as a foreign language, the most commonly required certification is a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate. These certifications provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Additional certifications that may be beneficial or required for certain teaching positions include:  [Read more]

The TESOL Diploma course is an advanced teacher training program designed for individuals who already hold a TEFL or TESOL certificate and wish to further enhance their teaching skills and career opportunities. Here are some key points about the TESOL Diploma course: To enroll in a TESOL Diploma course, you typically need to meet certain requirements: A TESOL Diploma course typically takes around 6 to 12 months to complete, depending on various factors such as the intensity of the program, the student's availability to study, and the specific requirements of the course. Here are some additional details to consider: A TESOL Diploma course can lead to various career opportunities in the field of English language teaching. Here are some of the potential career paths you can pursue after...  [Read more]

EFL (English as a Foreign Language) and ESL (English as a Second Language) are both terms used in the field of English language teaching, but they refer to different contexts: EFL (English as a Foreign Language): • In an EFL context, English is learned and taught in a non-English-speaking country where English is not the primary language of communication. • Students typically study English for academic purposes, career advancement, or personal enrichment. • EFL students may have limited exposure to English outside the classroom. ESL (English as a Second Language): • In an ESL context, English is learned and taught in an English-speaking country, often to immigrants or non-native English speakers living in that country. • ESL students are surrounded by English in their daily lives...  [Read more]

The cost of an advanced TEFL course can vary depending on several factors, such as the course provider, course format, duration, and additional features included. Here are some key points to consider when looking at the cost of an advanced TEFL course: An advanced TEFL course typically includes the following features: An advanced TEFL course typically takes around 120-150 hours to complete. However, the exact duration can vary depending on the program's structure and the individual's learning pace. Here are some factors that can influence the length of time it takes to complete an advanced TEFL course: Yes, there are scholarships and financial aid options available for advanced TEFL courses. Financial aid options for advanced TEFL courses can vary depending on the institution offering the...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can transition into various roles beyond traditional classroom teaching. Here are some alternative career paths for TEFL teachers: Career advancement opportunities for TEFL teachers are plentiful and diverse, offering avenues for professional growth and development. Here are some key opportunities for TEFL teachers to advance in their careers: Former TEFL teachers are highly sought after in various industries due to the valuable skills they acquire during their teaching experience. Some of the industries that commonly hire former TEFL teachers include: Yes, TEFL teachers can transition into specialized roles within education, leveraging their teaching experience and skills to explore new opportunities. Some of these specialized roles include:  [Read more]

To teach English in Vietnam, you will typically need a work visa, which is known as a Temporary Residence Card (TRC). Here are the general steps and requirements for obtaining the necessary visas to teach English in Vietnam: Processing times for a work visa for teaching English in Vietnam can vary depending on several factors. Here is a breakdown of the typical timeline and key considerations: To obtain a work visa to teach English in Vietnam, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including: Yes, there are specific documents required to apply for a teaching English visa in Vietnam. To teach English legally in Vietnam, you will typically need the following documents:  [Read more]

The cost of a combined TEFL course can vary depending on several factors, including the course provider, course duration, inclusions, and location. Here are some key points to consider when looking at the cost of a combined TEFL course: A combined TEFL course typically takes around 10 to 12 weeks to complete, depending on the program and the number of hours included in the course. Here are some factors to consider when estimating the duration of a combined TEFL course: To enroll in a combined TEFL course, you typically need to meet certain requirements: Yes, discounts are often available for combined TEFL courses, which can include multiple modules or specializations bundled together. These combined courses are designed to provide comprehensive training and a diverse skill set for future...  [Read more]

The cost of a specialized TEFL course can vary depending on several factors, including the course provider, the level of accreditation, the course format, and the location. Here are some key points to consider regarding the cost of specialized TEFL courses: Accreditation: Courses accredited by recognized bodies may have higher costs due to the quality assurance processes and standards they adhere to. Course Format: Online courses tend to be more affordable than in-person courses due to lower overhead costs for the provider. However, in-person courses may offer additional practical training components. Course Duration: Shorter courses may be less expensive than longer, more comprehensive programs. Additional Features: Courses that include specialized modules, teaching practice sessions, or...  [Read more]

To teach English in Vietnam, you will need a work visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Card (TRC). Here are the key points to consider regarding the visa requirements for teaching English in Vietnam: To obtain a teaching visa for Vietnam, it typically takes around 4-6 weeks, but the exact timeframe can vary based on individual circumstances and the efficiency of the application process. Here are some factors to consider: To obtain a teaching visa in Vietnam, you will typically need to fulfill the following requirements: Yes, you cannot legally work as an English teacher in Vietnam with a tourist visa. To work legally as an English teacher in Vietnam, you typically need a work permit. Working on a tourist visa is considered illegal and can lead to serious consequences, such as fines,...  [Read more]

Classroom environments in Asia can vary depending on the country, school, and age group of students. However, there are some common characteristics that are often found in Asian classrooms: Students in Asian classrooms typically exhibit the following behaviors: Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping the classroom environment in Asia. These factors can impact various aspects of teaching and learning, including communication styles, student-teacher relationships, and classroom dynamics. Here are some key cultural factors that influence the classroom environment in Asia:  [Read more]

When packing for a TEFL/TESOL course, there are several other things you should consider to ensure you have everything you need for a successful training experience: To maximize space in your luggage when packing, consider the following tips:  [Read more]

Upon arrival in Spain, there are several important steps you should take to ensure a smooth transition and start your TEFL experience on the right foot: Upon arrival in Spain, you will need to have the following documents ready: Yes, there are important safety tips for travelers upon arrival in Spain. When traveling to Spain, it is essential to keep in mind several safety tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:  [Read more]

You will need comfortable and professional shoes when teaching English abroad to ensure you can stand for long periods and maintain a polished appearance. When teaching English abroad, it is important to consider that you may be on your feet for extended periods of time. Comfortable shoes are essential to help you stay focused and energetic throughout the day. Additionally, in many cultures, wearing appropriate footwear is a sign of respect and professionalism. Here are some key points to consider when choosing shoes for teaching English abroad: The best types of shoes for teaching English abroad are comfortable, supportive, and professional-looking shoes that will keep you on your feet all day. Here are some key points to consider when choosing the right shoes for teaching English abroad:...  [Read more]