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What Are The Problems For English Language Learners In Saudi Arabia? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
I was born in Saudi Arabia and I had to finish my education from kindergarten to high school in Jeddah and other cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The history of teaching English
English Level
Problems
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As a student and a resident for more than 12 years there, I think that I have some experience in the education system in Saudi Arabia. I will try here to explain English learners' problems in Saudi Arabia with my personal opinion and experience.
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Hesham Z. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
It started in 1927. Then, development spanned from 1944 to the... [Read more]
What is EFL? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language. It is a term widely recognized in the English language teaching industry, renowned for its many acronyms like TEFL, TESOL, ESOL, and ESL. Specifically, EFL refers to the teaching or studying of English by non-native speakers. While it has distinctions, it is often used interchangeably with other similar acronyms in the context of English education.
What is the difference between EFL and ESL?
What is EFL in the classroom?
Who are EFL students?
EFL, or English as a Foreign Language, pertains to students learning English in a country where English isn't the primary language, such as a Spanish-speaker studying English in Mexico. They predominantly communicate in their native language and study English occasionally, like attending weekly lessons.... [Read more]
Two Main Ways of Teaching Vocabulary to English Language Learners - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Alumni Experiences
Vocabulary has a direct impact on written and spoken language comprehension. All students come to school with differences in their vocabulary knowledge, and part of teaching them how to be successful in English is to teach them vocabulary. Vocabulary development plays a critical role in helping English language learners increase their ability to communicate in the receptive and expressive domains in English. This is why vocabulary must be explicitly and systematically taught.
Learn how to teach vocabulary effectively with a TEFL course today!
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Gina A.
Research suggests the following three big ideas about teaching and learning new words:
Also read: 4 Super... [Read more]
What does TEFL mean? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
TEFL stands for 'Teaching English as a Foreign Language.' Beyond its definition, TEFL also denotes training courses that English language instructors undergo and the certification they earn upon finishing. Completing a TEFL course equips individuals with the necessary skills to teach English effectively across the globe.
What qualification do I need to teach EFL?
How do TEFL courses differ?
Which TEFL course provides the most comprehensive training?
Is an online TEFL course sufficient for teaching English abroad?
What will I gain from my TEFL course?
To teach EFL, the most widely recognized qualification is the TEFL certificate. Given the absence of a uniform standard for TEFL certification, numerous courses exist, each varying in duration, cost, and content. When choosing, it is... [Read more]
ITTT - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Question: What is TEFL?
The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. While this term is used for the physical act of actually teaching English abroad, it is also commonly used to refer to the training courses that many prospective teachers complete before heading overseas, as well as the qualification they receive upon successfully graduating from the course. By gaining a TEFL certificate it is possible to find work as an English language teacher in almost any country of your choice worldwide.
TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language
TESL - Teaching English as a Second Language
TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
ELT - English Language Teaching
TEFL Qualifications
Choosing a TEFL Certificate Course
Online or In-Class TEFL Course
Finding a Teaching Job
Teaching Hot... [Read more]
Memes as Learning Material for the Language Learner - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
There are many tools a teacher of language can use to impart important aspects of the target language like grammar and vocabulary to their students. For example, writing keywords on the board from a text may be a useful way to highlight important words or key information for learners. Furthermore, worksheets can be particularly helpful with grammar exercises, allowing students a lot of repetition and free-hand practice with the language point.
Memes as a Tool
What are Memes?
Activate Phase
Who to Teach With Memes?
Useful or Not?
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Levi L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions... [Read more]
What is the difference between EFL and ESL? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
ESL (English as a Second Language) pertains to students learning English while living in an English-speaking environment. In contrast, EFL (English as a Foreign Language) is for students learning English in a country where it isn't the primary language. Essentially, the distinction lies in the learning context: ESL learners are surrounded by the language daily, while EFL learners study English in settings where the primary language isn't English.
What do EFL and ESL actually stand for?
What are the main differences between EFL and ESL?
Teaching strategies for English as a second language
Teaching strategies for English as a foreign language
EFL and ESL represent the two primary categories of English language learning globally. While understanding these definitions isn't mandatory (since... [Read more]
What are the different types of TEFL programs? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
There are four main categories of English teaching programs that we will consider here:
Each program is designed with a specific audience in mind, involves distinctive educational activities, and has unique highlights.
General English
Academic English (Also referred to as English for Academic Purpose EAP)
Business English
Young Learners
Other Notes
Audience: Primarily taught in governmental schools and private language institutions worldwide.
Curriculum: Typically, it covers five study levels with a predefined syllabus, utilizing popular book series like 'New Headway' or 'Let's go'.
Highlight: It caters to millions of students worldwide who are keen on learning general English.
Also read: Should I take a TEFL course bundle?
Audience: Tailored for students who need to demonstrate their... [Read more]
What is the difference between EFL and ELL? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
In the field of English language instruction, various abbreviations often get mixed up, leading to confusion. A typical mix-up occurs between the terms EFL and ELL. Simply put, EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language, and ELL signifies English Language Learner. EFL pertains to the course or class, while ELL denotes the English student.
What exactly does "EFL" mean?
What does "ELL" stand for?
EFL, or "English as a Foreign Language," denotes programs specifically constructed for ELL students. Many educational institutions offer EFL classes designed for English learners, utilizing EFL-centric curricula and programs. The term EFL broadly encapsulates the techniques and resources employed in teaching English to learners.
ELL, an acronym for "English Language Learner," represents students... [Read more]
Pronunciation Problems for Learners Speaking Chinese as their First Language - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sheneil J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Problems with Consonants
Problems with Vowels
Problems with Rhythm and Stress
Problems with intonation
Minimal Pairs
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Chinese does not have either of the "th" sounds (like "that" and "this"). Most other languages do not have these sounds and they are problematic for most learners of English. The difficulty is the point of articulation- the tongue has to be between the teeth, not behind them. Many people say that English speakers look like they're sticking their tongues out all the time because of the "th" sounds. It... [Read more]
All Types of Verbs in the English Language - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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Verbs are one of the most important parts of speech in English and incredibly important for learners of English. The below infographic showcases all types of verbs in the English language.
Generally speaking, a verb is a word that shows an action, state or an event. It is an essential part of a sentence and is known as the soul of language. For example:
"They study English grammar." (Action)
"We celebrate independence day." (Event)
"I sleep at night." (State)
Following are the different types of verbs:
When a verb's past tense (2nd form) and past participle (3rd form) is created by adding ‘d’ or ‘ed’, it is called a regular verb. Some examples of a regular verb include:
Walk
Walked
... [Read more]
11 Fun ESL Activities for Young Learners - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Teaching Ideas
When teaching young learners, it's important not to spend too much time on any one activity as they can soon lose interest. It is also a good idea to have activities that give younger learners the chance to move about and use the boundless energy they have at that age. Below we present a list of short activities suitable for young and very young learners of English.
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What's the Time Mr. Wolf?
Telephone
Basketball
Volleyball
Bingo
Can you …?
I Spy
Odd One Out
Stand Up Please
Mastermind
Blindfold Obstacle Course
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This is a good activity for practicing time with small classes. Clear a space in the center of... [Read more]
Mastering Grammar: Dynamic Approaches and Engaging Activities for Language Learners - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
In this insightful blog post, we'll explore the essence of grammar, examining various approaches to its teaching, offering a comprehensive understanding of this linguistic foundation.
What is Grammar?
Preparation
Grammar Practice Activities and Games
Grammar Quiz
Memory test
Miming an action
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For decades, mastering grammar stood pivotal in students' perception of language learning. However, contemporary perspectives vary widely on what constitutes essential learning for learners and the most effective teaching methodologies.
Here are some key questions concerning teaching grammar:
Prepare some... [Read more]
Tips for Teaching Different Types of English Learning Groups - TEFL Blog
Mark Crocker
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
There are many types of English learning groups and each group requires different teaching techniques. In my opinion, English learners can be divided into 2 groups: beginners and English learners for specific purposes. Beginners can be students who have no English at all or know a few simple structures. They can be children or adults. English learners for specific purposes are students who have a basic English level and want to achieve their specific aims of learning.
Young Beginners
Adult Beginners
English Learners for Specific Purposes
Conversation Learners
Business Students
Examination Classes
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nhung... [Read more]
Problems for English Learners in Russia - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
People from different countries inevitably face problems when they are trying to learn English. Russia is no exception. Let's have a quick look at some typical problems that my fellow countrymen face.
Pronunciation
Grammar
Meaning
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sergei S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
As you may know, Russian is written using the Cyrillic alphabet, and some may think that it can cause problems. In reality, the Russians are fine with understanding the Latin alphabet and can easily pronounce each letter. However, the Devil is in the details. When it comes to speaking it... [Read more]
Silent Letters when Speaking English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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When practicing speaking English it can be confusing for language learners to find that certain words have a silent letter that shouldn’t be used. Here we look at some of the most common examples.
When teaching English to non-native speakers the presence of silent letters can be a cause of great confusion among students and teachers alike. For the learner it can be frustrating to find that the written form of the word they have just mastered is actually spoken without using all the letters. There are a few basic rules when it comes to silent letters, but as is usually the case with English, there are often exceptions.
Silent (B) Rule 1: The letter B is usually not pronounced after M at the end of a word e.g. comb, bomb,... [Read more]
IELTS and TOEFL ▷ Infographic - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
A couple of acronyms that you are likely to come across as an English teacher are IELTS and TOEFL. IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System and is a United Kingdom and Commonwealth based test of English language skills. TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language and is a U.S. based English language skills test. These two are the main international English-language tests and are used by universities, governments and employers to assess the English proficiency of international students, immigrants and potential employees. TOEFL tests are mainly aimed at foreign students looking to study in U.S. universities and a Junior TOEFL test is also offered for middle school children. IELTS on the other hand has two types of test, there is the academic test for... [Read more]
Building Confidence: Empowering Learners for Success - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
What could be more important for learners than building confidence at a young age? Teachers play a crucial role in helping students develop lasting confidence. Active learning allows students to try new things, accomplish tasks, and boost their energy and self-assurance. By providing opportunities for independent exploration and growth, language learning becomes a platform for building confidence, especially in young and flexible learners.
Appreciation as a Confidence Booster
Challenging Confidence through Language Usage
Individual Approaches to Confidence Building
A Nurturing Atmosphere for Confidence
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Check out what our course grads say in our many... [Read more]
What is the difference between TEFL, TESOL and CELTA? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
In the field of English language teaching, acronyms like TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA frequently surface, often leading to confusion for both newcomers and seasoned educators. While course providers, job boards, and teaching resources brim with these acronyms, understanding their distinctions is crucial. So, what sets TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA apart?
What does TEFL mean?
What does TESOL mean?
What does CELTA mean?
Which type of course should I choose?
What if a course doesn't meet this criteria?
Does the quality of a training course vary by location?
TEFL stands for 'Teaching English as a Foreign Language.' A prevalent term in the world of teaching English overseas, TEFL isn't tied to a specific training program or provider. Instead, it broadly encapsulates various training and... [Read more]
Most Common Problems for English Learners in Spanish-Speaking Colombia - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
For this assignment, I decided to research problems experienced by Colombian students learning English. I will be teaching English in Colombia and thought this subject would benefit me. My findings more generally reflect the difficulties of Spanish-speaking learners. The paper outlines the top ten difficulties for Spanish-speakers learning English (vocabulary, spelling/pronunciation, subject-verb-agreement, verb tense, dialects, subject omission, pronunciation, stress, slang, and literal translations) based on CCJK (2019). Where possible I relate this information to my experiences/examples and units in the TEFL course.
Vocabulary difficulties
Spelling and Punctuation Difficulties
Subject-Verb Agreement
Verb Tense
Dialects
The omission of the Subject... [Read more]
TEFL terms explained ▷ Infographic - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
As with most professions the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language has many of its own particular and sometimes peculiar terms and jargon. Getting to grips with the wide array of acronyms in the industry can sometimes feel like learning a whole new language!
So if you have trouble telling the difference between your IWB (Interactive Whiteboard) and your OHP (Overhead Projector), this infographic is a great guide to what’s what in the English language teaching industry. Two of the most commonly used phrases in English teaching, and two that cause most confusion are TEFL and TESOL. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL means Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Another term, TESL, means Teaching English as a Second Language. TESL is... [Read more]
Problems for Young English Learners in Public Schools in China - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Since the opening of China to the Western world, Chinese society and economic prowess have both continued to grow at exponential rates. This has led to its status as a rising power, culturally and economically, and an international power increasingly interconnected with many parts of the globe. As Chinese educational infrastructure tries to match pace with the rapidity of the country's progress, one educational mandate that has persisted in importance over time has been that of English learning for all young learners across the country. The government sees English proficiency as a matter of national economic competitiveness, in fact requiring that English is taught as part of the public school curriculum as preparation for China's 高考 (gaokao),... [Read more]
TEFL Switzerland - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Job Teaching Young Learners English In Switzerland
Date posted:2018-04-27 | Writer: Wall Street English | Email: [email protected]
The Swiss Learning Group is an educational organisation that has taught languages to more than 10,000 students per year since 1986. Wall Street English is the best known brand of the group, and is present in 28 different countries. Our 8 English language schools in Switzerland are located in city centres, close to railway stations, and therefore easily accessible whatever your means of transportation. We have in immediate opportunity for a TEFL qualified teacher in our Lausanne school close to Lake Geneva.
We are looking for someone who is flexible, interested in working with students at different language levels/abilities and willing to work part-time hours and especially during... [Read more]
Top Tips for Teaching English to Young Learners - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
hi welcome Linda here from ITT back this week with another live session I hope you're doing well thank you so much for joining me today I'm happy to see you if you can see me and if you can hear me clearly if everything's working please just leave a high in the comment section and uh maybe also let me know where you are right now where are you watching from today what time is it there how are you doing let me know in the comments we are live on Facebook and on YouTube at the same time and we also always turn our live sessions into podcast episodes so if you're listening to this as a podcast thank you so much for the download and thank you so much for listening we really appreciate that don't forget to like And subscribe um so you're always up to date whenever we go live um last week we had... [Read more]
ITTT 60-hour 10-unit Course in Teaching English to Young Learners with tutor
Teaching English to Young Learners is a rapidly expanding area of the TEFL/TESOL market. No previous experience or training in education is required to complete this course. The course is designed for anyone who is currently working, or intends to work within the field of teaching English to young learners.
On completion of the course you should have gained a basic knowledge of teachers and their roles, students and their needs, how to manage a classroom and the all-important skill of creating your own lessons, all with specific reference to teaching English to young learners. Further topics of study include the practical requirements of hardware and software needed to teach your young learners online. The course concludes with a look at the teaching employment market.
A... [Read more]
Business English and Young Learners - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
In addition to its main TEFL courses, ITTT also offers two specialised certificates in teaching business English and teaching English to young learners. These courses are a fantastic way to improve your teaching skills, enhance your CV and give you the edge in the employment market.
Each course has 50 hours of study time and 6 study modules. Both courses are available with or without the support of a highly experienced online tutor, feature continuous assessment and are completed 100% online. Successful completion of the course results in certification and graduates will receive an embossed hard copy certificate via registered mail. The courses also come with complimentary lesson plan access and lifetime job placement assistance. Many countries around the world are lowering the age at... [Read more]
Problems for Czech Learners of English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
I have moved to the Czech Republic with my girlfriend who is Czech after we met in New Zealand, where I am from. Teaching English here was a business idea that she came up with because she taught English here before for 8 years. In Czech people are more interested in taking English lessons from a native speaker and they also like New Zealand over here. So from this perspective, it makes a lot of sense for me to do this course. Since I am going to be teaching in Czech to begin with, I have already started to see some issues with the language learning that I will be faced with.
Grammar
Receptive Skills
Productive Skills
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate... [Read more]
What does TEFL and TESOL stand for? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
These acronyms are used when referring to training courses that English language teachers undertake, as well as the certification they receive upon completion. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. As these terms are essentially the same, they are often used interchangeably, however, TEFL is most commonly used within the UK and TESOL is usually preferred in the USA. Although some countries may favor one acronym over the other, it is important to remember that a TEFL certification and a TESOL certification are exactly the same thing as the training involved is identical.
What are the technical differences between TEFL and TESOL?
What qualifications do I need to teach EFL?
How do TEFL courses differ?
... [Read more]
Empowering Young Minds: Fostering Critical Thinking in Education - TEFL Blog
Minh Huy Hoang
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Critical thinking is one of the fundamental abilities in the "4Cs" of 21st-century skills including Communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. In education, critical thinking is unquestionably significant, in EFL in particular.
Why should teachers of languages do critical thinking?
What kinds of critical thinking exercises can instructors do with young learners?
Storytelling
Odd one out
Conclusion
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For young learners, critical thinking may be defined as having the willingness to pick up new things, solve simple problems, make judgments, justify those conclusions, and... [Read more]
How Important is the Difference Between American English and British English for EFL Learners? - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
This summative essay will exam the importance of teaching the differences between American English and British English for EFL learners. I will examine the intention behind teaching these differences, and when these teachings should be applied, and to what effect and purpose. This essay will focus primarily on the problems of pronunciation and spelling, which are the two main differences. I am a British citizen, born and raised in London, England, and currently teach at a public high school in Tokyo.
Spelling
Challenges for Beginners and Intermediate Learners
What do Students Think?
Grammar
Interesting Experience for Adults
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate... [Read more]