Native Teaching Aids

  Here we have a set of five words, which all share one sound: the ?oh? sound, as in ?go?, ?show?, ?dough?, ?note? and ?boat?. They?re five different spelling patterns to tell our students so they can identify when to make the ?oh? sound. We can have a simple letter ?o?, ?ow?, ?ough?, ?o? with the magic ?e? which turns our vowel into what we knew as long sounds and the ?oa? as in ?boat?. Now, for a non-native learner, perhaps they can handle something like this. They remember that these spelling combinations help to produce the ?oh? sound and they can go about their business looking at the words and memorizing this knowing that these spelling patterns will produce the sound ?oh?. Now that?s okay until we get to a situation where we can also have words like ?to?, ?cow? and also...  [Read more]

--- A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate is a valuable qualification that equips individuals with the necessary skills to teach English to non-native speakers. The certification is recognized worldwide and is often a requirement for those seeking employment as English language teachers. TEFL courses cover a range of topics including lesson planning, classroom management, language assessment, and teaching methodologies. With a TEFL certificate, individuals are prepared to teach English to a diverse range of students, including children. --- Teaching English to children can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for educators with a TEFL certificate. Children are often enthusiastic language learners and can make rapid progress when exposed to engaging and interactive...  [Read more]

  In this TEFL review video, Charne from South Africa tells us about her experience taking the 120-hour online TEFL course with tutor support and videos from ITTT. Charne found the course units to be very informative covering many topics from basic grammar structures to lesson planning and teaching different age groups. Charne is currently living in Mexico and has found many opportunities waiting for her now that she has completed the course. 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...  [Read more]

Teaching English pronunciation in TEFL is crucial for effective communication skills. Proper pronunciation enhances students' ability to be understood by native speakers, improves their confidence in speaking, and helps them communicate more clearly. It also aids in developing listening skills and overall language proficiency. As a TEFL teacher, focusing on pronunciation can make a significant impact on your students' language learning journey. Several TEFL courses offer specialized training in teaching English pronunciation. These courses provide in-depth knowledge of phonetics, intonation, stress patterns, and other key aspects of pronunciation. Some renowned TEFL certification programs, such as the Cambridge CELTA and Trinity CertTESOL, include modules specifically dedicated to teaching...  [Read more]

TEFL certification is not always a strict requirement for teaching English in humanitarian aid programs, as the focus is often on providing assistance rather than meeting specific teaching qualifications. However, having a TEFL certification can greatly enhance your ability to effectively teach English to non-native speakers in these settings. One of the key benefits of having a TEFL certification is that it equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to create engaging and effective lesson plans tailored to the needs of your students. In humanitarian aid programs, where resources may be limited and students may come from diverse backgrounds, this ability to adapt and differentiate instruction is invaluable. Additionally, a TEFL certification demonstrates to potential employers and...  [Read more]

  "Your" and "you're" often get confused, not only by English learners around the world but also by many native English speakers. Let's break it down. "Your" is a possessive adjective that indicates ownership, while "you're" is simply the contraction of "you are". Let's take a look at this example sentence: Your grades are great this semester. In this case, we use 'your' as we use it to indicate ownership. You're the best student in the entire school! This example require us to use 'you're' because it is the short form for 'you are'. Should you not be sure which one to use, think about if you want to express ownership or of you want to say "you are". Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online...  [Read more]

To prepare for teaching English in a multilingual environment, there are several key steps you can take to ensure that you are equipped to effectively teach students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the linguistic and cultural backgrounds of your students. This can help you understand their unique needs, challenges, and learning styles. Take the time to research common features of your students' native languages that may influence their learning of English, such as grammar structures or pronunciation patterns. Additionally, consider taking a course or workshop on teaching English as a second language (ESL) or teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). These courses can provide you with valuable strategies...  [Read more]

1. Benefits of Starting English Education at a Young Age 2. Strategies for Teaching English to Young Learners 3. Importance of Early Exposure to English 4. Conclusion Introducing English education to children at a young age has numerous benefits that can have a lasting impact on their language acquisition and overall cognitive development. Research has shown that young children have a natural ability to absorb languages, making it an ideal time to expose them to a new language like English. By starting English education early, children can develop strong language skills, improve cognitive abilities, and enhance their overall academic performance. One of the key advantages of starting English education at a young age is the development of strong language skills. Young children have a...  [Read more]

--- TEFL students often struggle with grammar due to the differences between their native language and English. These variations can lead to confusion in sentence structure, verb tenses, and word order. Additionally, the complexities of English grammar rules can be overwhelming for learners. Understanding these challenges is crucial for effectively supporting students in their grammar learning journey. --- To support TEFL students struggling with grammar, teachers can implement various strategies. Providing clear explanations, offering examples, and giving ample practice opportunities are essential. Additionally, incorporating visual aids, interactive activities, and peer collaboration can enhance students' understanding and retention of grammar concepts. Tailoring instruction to meet...  [Read more]

Teaching English to non-native speakers can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Whether you are a seasoned TEFL instructor or new to the field, there are several key strategies and approaches you can employ to effectively teach English as a foreign language. First and foremost, it is essential to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for your students. Building rapport and establishing a positive relationship with your students can help foster a sense of trust and collaboration in the classroom. Encouraging open communication and respecting cultural differences can also enhance the overall learning experience for non-native English speakers. When planning your lessons, it is important to consider the language proficiency levels of your students. Tailoring your...  [Read more]

Teaching English to children and adults are two distinct processes that require different approaches and techniques. When it comes to teaching children, it is essential to create a fun and interactive learning environment that caters to their shorter attention spans and playful nature. Using games, songs, and visual aids can help keep children engaged and motivated to learn English. On the other hand, teaching English to adults involves more focus on real-life situations and practical language skills. Adults are often motivated by specific goals such as career advancement or travel, so incorporating relevant vocabulary and role-playing activities can be effective in their learning process. Additionally, adults may benefit from more in-depth grammar explanations and discussions on cultural...  [Read more]

To prepare for your first TEFL class, there are several key steps you can take to ensure you are ready to deliver a successful lesson. First, familiarize yourself with the lesson plan and materials provided by your TEFL course or employer. Review the objectives of the lesson, the activities, and any worksheets or handouts that you will be using. Make sure you understand the flow of the lesson and how each activity is structured. Next, consider the language level and cultural background of your students. This will help you tailor your lesson to their needs and interests. If possible, try to learn a few key phrases in their native language to establish rapport and show respect for their culture. Prepare any visual aids or props that you will be using during the lesson. This could include...  [Read more]

Students with interrupted formal education (SIFE) are individuals who have experienced gaps in their schooling due to various reasons such as war, poverty, migration, or personal circumstances. These students often face unique challenges in the classroom, including language barriers, academic disparities, and cultural adjustments. As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to understand the background and needs of SIFE students to provide effective support and create a conducive learning environment for them. There are several strategies that TEFL teachers can employ to support SIFE students in their classrooms. Firstly, it is crucial to assess the students' language proficiency levels and academic backgrounds to tailor instruction accordingly. Providing differentiated instruction, scaffolded...  [Read more]

Teaching English online can be a rewarding and flexible career option, even if you don't have a formal teaching background. While having a teaching qualification can be beneficial, it is not always a requirement for online English teaching positions. Many online platforms and companies look for native or fluent English speakers with good communication skills and a passion for helping others learn. If you are new to teaching English, it is advisable to start by taking a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification course. These courses will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Additionally, gaining some teaching experience, either through...  [Read more]

  ITTT has over thirty training centers around the world where trainees can complete our four week in-class course. In this TEFL review video one of our trainees shares her experiences of her first week at the Phuket training center in Thailand. ITTT's graduates are in demand globally and therefore it is never a problem to find employment that fits your requirements. We have a huge list of employment opportunities in any one of a number of different locations. To learn more about possible employment opportunities visit our web site. 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,...  [Read more]

When considering teaching English in a country where you do not speak the local language, it is essential to understand the significance of language proficiency. While knowing the local language can be beneficial, especially for daily interactions and cultural immersion, it is not always a requirement for teaching English as a foreign language. Many schools and language centers around the world specifically look for native or fluent English speakers to create an immersive learning environment for their students. Teaching English in a foreign country without knowing the local language is a common practice among TEFL professionals. In fact, being a non-speaker of the local language can sometimes be advantageous as it forces both the teacher and the students to communicate solely in English,...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad is a fantastic way to improve your language skills. Immersing yourself in a foreign country where English is not the primary language forces you to communicate in English on a daily basis. This constant exposure to the language helps you to improve your vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and overall fluency. Additionally, interacting with native speakers and other English teachers can provide valuable feedback and insights into the language that you may not get in a traditional classroom setting. While teaching English abroad can be a great way to enhance your language skills, it also comes with its challenges. One of the main obstacles you may face is the language barrier with your students or colleagues who may not speak English fluently. To overcome this...  [Read more]

  This is Chantelle?s video diary entry after completing unit 16 of her online TEFL course. Unit 16 covers conditionals and reported speech. Both language points can cause difficulty for English language learners and teachers alike. The unit outlines the structure and use of the conditionals and also provides some useful teaching ideas that can be used in your own classes. It also goes into detail about when we use reported speech and the changes that occur when changing direct speech into reported speech. You will also find teaching ideas to help you understand how this language point can be taught in the classroom. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TEYL (Teaching English to Young Learners) courses are both specialized training programs for educators who want to teach English to non-native speakers, but they cater to different teaching contexts and student demographics. Understanding the differences between these two types of courses is essential for educators to choose the right program that aligns with their career goals and teaching preferences. TEFL courses are designed for teachers who want to teach English to non-native speakers of all ages in a variety of settings, such as language schools, private tutoring, or corporate training. These courses cover a wide range of teaching methodologies, language skills, and classroom management techniques that are relevant to adult learners....  [Read more]

In the dynamic world of education, teachers play a vital role in shaping the future by imparting knowledge and skills to the next generation. With the ever-evolving landscape of teaching methodologies and technologies, it is crucial for educators to stay abreast of effective classroom strategies that can maximize learning outcomes. This article explores key strategies that teachers can implement to create an engaging and productive learning environment for their students. One of the fundamental principles of effective teaching is differentiated instruction. This approach recognizes that students have diverse learning styles, abilities, and interests. By tailoring instruction to meet the individual needs of each student, teachers can create a supportive learning environment where all...  [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]

Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is a widely used method in TEFL courses. This approach emphasizes interaction as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language. In CLT, students engage in real-life communication tasks, such as role-plays and problem-solving activities, to practice using the language in context. Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students as they communicate and providing feedback on language use. This method focuses on developing students' communicative competence and fluency in the language. Task-Based Learning (TBL) is another popular method in TEFL courses. TBL focuses on the completion of tasks as the central unit of teaching and learning. Students work on meaningful tasks that require the use of language to achieve a specific goal, such as...  [Read more]

  The teaching ideas in these ITTT videos are intended to be used in the Activate stage of a lesson. During this stage students are encouraged to use the language as freely and communicatively as possible. The focus is more on the fluency than on the accuracy of the language. When selecting any activity it is important to ensure that the timing is appropriate and that the activity is appropriate for the students' age, language levels, class size, interests and culture. The video looks at one of three teaching ideas for Present Simple. The activity is called "Find someone who...." Each student will be given a sheet with a number of facts/habits/routines. For example ...plays a musical instrument,.....does a lot of sport, ....has a brother and a sister. The students then mill...  [Read more]

Adapting your TEFL teaching style for different age groups is essential to ensure effective learning outcomes. Each age group has unique characteristics, learning styles, and interests that should be taken into consideration when planning and delivering English language lessons. In this guide, we will explore how to adapt your TEFL teaching style for young learners, teenagers, and adults. Teaching English to young learners requires a creative and interactive approach to keep them engaged and motivated. Here are some strategies to adapt your TEFL teaching style for young learners: - Use visual aids, props, and games to make learning fun and interactive. - Incorporate songs, rhymes, and stories to appeal to their imagination and creativity. - Keep instructions simple and provide frequent...  [Read more]

  In this video Linda breaks down the difference between "everyday" and "every day". Due to their spelling, it can be quite hard for non-native English learners to understand the difference between the two. This video explains exactly how to differenciate between both expressions. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. I think this unit was full of useful advice. There is some brand new equipment for teaching which I haven't worked before. For...  [Read more]

Teaching English to non-literate adults can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. It requires a patient and creative approach to help students develop their language skills effectively. Here are some strategies and tips to consider when teaching English to non-literate adults. First and foremost, it is essential to establish a supportive and encouraging learning environment. Non-literate adults may feel embarrassed or frustrated about their inability to read and write, so creating a safe space where they feel comfortable making mistakes is crucial. Encouraging peer support and collaboration can also help boost their confidence and motivation. When teaching non-literate adults, it is important to focus on oral communication skills initially. This includes teaching basic vocabulary,...  [Read more]

As an expert in TEFL, you understand the importance of having a well-equipped teaching toolkit to effectively teach English as a foreign language. Your toolkit should consist of a variety of resources and materials to cater to different learning styles and levels of proficiency. Here are some essential items to include in your TEFL teaching toolkit: 1. **Grammar Guides and Reference Books**: Having a comprehensive grammar guide is essential for teaching English language learners. Choose a guide that covers basic to advanced grammar rules and explanations that you can refer to during your lessons. 2. **Vocabulary Flashcards**: Vocabulary is a crucial aspect of language learning. Use flashcards to introduce and reinforce new words, phrases, and expressions. You can create your own flashcards...  [Read more]

  Being interviewed for a TEFL related position is much like any other interview situation; it can be an intimidating prospect. However, if you do your homework and prepare for some general questions in advance, you can remove a great deal of worry from the whole process. Unfortunately you cannot predict exactly how any interview will unfold but most will include a similar range of questions that are aimed at assessing your suitability for joining the existing workforce. So what questions should you expect to be asked? The employer will certainly want to form an impression of who you are as a person, so expect questions such as: What do you like to do in your spare time? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Where do you see yourself in five years? If the job is outside of your...  [Read more]

  1. What is Online TEFL Certification? 2. Importance of Online TEFL Certification 3. Educational Prerequisites for Online TEFL Certification 4. Top Online TEFL Certification Programs 5. Work Experience and Teaching Practice in Online Certification 6. Flexibility and Accessibility of Online TEFL Courses 7. Cost and Financial Considerations 8. Accreditation and Recognition of Online TEFL Programs 9. Technology and Resources in Online TEFL Training 10. Specialized Online TEFL Certifications 11. Support and Community in Online TEFL Programs 12. Job Opportunities with an Online TEFL Certificate 13. Online vs. In-Person TEFL Certification 14. Continuing Education and Professional Development 15. Success Stories from ITTT Online TEFL Graduates 16. Overcoming Challenges in Online TEFL...  [Read more]

Discover a World of ESL Classroom Resources for Beginners 1. The Importance of ESL Classroom Resources 2. Essential Tools for Teaching Beginners 3. Engaging Activities for Beginner ESL Learners 4. Online Resources for ESL Beginners When it comes to teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to beginners, having the right resources at your disposal is key to creating a successful learning environment. As an ESL teacher, you understand the importance of providing engaging and effective tools to help your students build their language skills. Whether you are a seasoned educator or just starting out in the field, having access to a wide range of ESL classroom resources can make all the difference in your teaching journey. When teaching ESL to beginners, it is essential to have a variety of...  [Read more]