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The Main Principles of Teaching Beginners - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Whom a student is defined within about same parameters by different sources. The Collins COBUILD Advanced Dictionary also has two definitions of the word student.
The Basis of the Article
Useful Tips
Program Core
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The Merriam Webster dictionary (online) has two definitions of students which are as reproduced below:
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate PAUL D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
For this summative assignment, the second definition by the Merriam-Webster and Collins COBUILD Dictionary will be used. Using the second definition as just stated, a beginner student will be one who is new to... [Read more]
1st Language vs. 2nd Language Acquisition: How and TEFL Instructors Must Learn from the First to Better Teach the Second - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
The contrast between primary language acquisition and second language learning interests professional linguists, language pedagogues, and ordinary students alike. To say that the processes are distinct and involve very different learning processes, as well as even altogether different spheres of the brain is an understatement: these are indeed different functions (Limacher, Ute "Language Acquisition Versus Language Learning" ).
Differences between the two types of acquisitions
Language structure and learning process
Personal experience
The Consciousness of language acquisition
Classroom setting
Natural environment
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Brett... [Read more]
The Principles of Classroom Motivation - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
As human beings, motivation is one of the most important components to succeed ultimately, anything. If an individual is not motivated, the likelihood to succeed merely diminishes. This pertains to a person's personal life, academic life, and professional life. Motivation is the root of success, and this is why motivating the students in an ESL classroom holds such importance. To motivate students, the teacher must determine the student's intrinsic goals and desires, help students define their goals, create a positive and friendly climate, and encourage each student.
Challenges of learning a second language
Rapport building
Feedback
The importance of volunteer work
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This post was... [Read more]
The Principles and Peculiarities of Second Language Acquisition - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Language is one of the most significant aspects that differentiate humans from other species. The method of human communication is considered unique as it incorporates both spoken and written communication. The use of language in communication consists of the use of words in a structured or conventional way. Language acquisition is considered one of the most unique and impressive aspects of human development both psychologically and cognitively. However, every human acquires the language they encounter as children. It is from this point that they can learn multiple languages, although these languages will always be unique from the first language they were exposed to. The uniqueness of the first language from the languages learned exposes the... [Read more]
The Principles of Building a Strong Vocabulary - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
Teaching Ideas
Perhaps more than anything, the size of a student's vocabulary puts a limit on what he or she can and cannot do in English! Because although I think that grammar certainly has a place in the teaching of English, my own experience has shown me that the number of words and phrases in your language arsenal will be a bigger determining factor of your ability to understand and to use a language actively. Here I will explain why I believe that vocabulary is key when it comes to mastering English and at the same time give some examples of how to teach English vocabulary effectively to students in line with the ESA methodology.
Active vs. Passive Vocabulary
Benefits of a Large Vocabulary
Ways to Build a Strong Vocabulary
Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a... [Read more]
The Principles of Working on Student Motivation - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Besides the thousands of things they have on their minds (personal problems, health issues, daydreaming, etc.) and the temptation to just chat with their neighbors in the classroom, students can also be easily distracted by their smartphones. Distraction is not the only obstacle to the class, boredom and absenteeism don't help the class either.
1. Build rapport with students
2. Make the class interesting
3. Have fun!
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To prevent those behaviors, students need to be motivated, which is every teacher's challenge. While all students have different backgrounds and expectations, the teacher still has plenty of resources to tease students' attention and increase their participation.
How do you keep... [Read more]
The Principles of Encouraging Students for a Better ESL Performance - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Any action performed by living beings is supported by a motive. In humans, we are driven by motivators unique to each one of us; without this motivation, our goals and desires remain unaccomplished. There are different types of motivators both internal and external that of which directly impact second language acquisition in the classroom. In this setting both parents and teachers alike play a pivotal role in motivating students, thus enabling their success in second language learning. This essay will outline how motivation, both intrinsic and extrinsic, affects students in the language learning classroom and how a teacher may establish motivation in students.
What is Motivation?
Internal Will
External Will
Teachers' Responsibilities
Do you want to... [Read more]
Welcome Spring Reading Worksheet - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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Here are six poems about spring with gap-fill exercises on this EFL worksheet.
Print out this ESL worksheet and have your students read the six poems about spring either individually or as a class. Next, work on the gap-fill exercises and correct any mistakes.
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Principles of Teacher-Student Communication for Classroom Trust - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
When presented with the dilemma to name the most important element of education, one has many options. A music teacher would comment that a student's willingness to express himself/herself rhythmically takes precedence over anything else-the role of the teacher is not heavily emphasized. An advanced math teacher would say that the students' motivation for learning the subject holds extreme importance. A kindergarten teacher might answer that keeping the students' interest is paramount. All of these scenarios are true.
What is Rapport?
How to Work on it?
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Jamie B. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily... [Read more]
Key Functions and Principles of Lesson Planning - TEFL Blog
Jon ITTT
Alumni Experiences
Lesson planning is an indispensable part of successful lessons. Generally speaking, lesson plans have various functions that are conducive to the classes.
Listen to this blog post:
The function of a lesson plan
Lesson planning principles
What should a lesson plan include?
The ESA method
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Juan W.
First and most importantly, lesson plans can help teachers think and deliver classes logically through different stages of the classes. It can also give teachers hints needed. When teachers plan lessons, there are several aspects that need to be taken into consideration, such as lesson... [Read more]
Top Reasons Why Rules of Pronunciation are Extremely Important for Teachers - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
Many ESL teachers have never even heard of phonetics or phonology, yet they use these aspects of speech naturally when they speak. Phonetics and phonology are two areas of linguistics that study the sounds of language. Phonetics focuses on individual sounds, while phonology studies the features and combination of sounds (McMahon, 1-3). There are two reasons why ESL teachers need to know phonetics and phonology: first, it helps them to conceptualize English in a way that their students can understand; and second, it helps them to address their students' difficult pronunciation problems.
Why Students Suffer from Pronunciation Issues?
Lack of Subject Knowledge
Sound Awareness
Teacher as a Role Model
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Related... [Read more]
Spring Worksheet Write the Word - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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This printable spring worksheet covers six spring-related vocabulary words that the students need to identify and then write on the line provided.
The vocabulary words from this sheet are:
For more advanced students, you can have them write a whole sentence containing each word on the line.
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[Read more]
Tefl reviews - Principal Vs Principle English Grammar Teaching Tips - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
This video covers the difference between 'principal' and 'principle'. These two words often cause confusion for English learners due to their similar spelling. The word 'principal' can be used as a noun and as an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a person of authority, like a school principal, the head of a school. When used as an adjective, it means 'leading' or 'primary', like a principal cause or reason. The word 'principle', on the other hand, is only used as a noun and refers to a moral or standard, like the principle of free speech.
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... [Read more]
From Student to teacher in 6 easy steps - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Many people are unaware quite how accessible a career teaching English as a foreign language is while others are simply not aware that it is even possible to live and work abroad in almost any country in the world. Not only is possible but it is relatively easy to achieve in a short period of time. By following the six steps outlined here, you could be working abroad as an EFL teacher before you know it.
Step 1 involves research. Once you have decided where you would like to teach, you need to find out what the requirements are for the place you want to work in. Do you need a degree? Is an online or in-class TEFL certificate required? Find out what the local salaries are like and whether you can afford to work there - some countries are best avoided if you have large student loans to... [Read more]
The Basic Types of Adverbs - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Usage & Adverb Examples in English
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
Let's take a look at the six basic types of adverbs in English. Learn useful usage, example words, and example sentences of different adverbs types in English with this printable ESL infographic.
Usage: Describes when or for how long a certain action happened.
Example words: Already, ago, before, yet, never, soon, yesterday, soon, lately
Example sentences:
Usage: Describes how often something occurs, either indefinite or indefinite terms.
Example words: Always, usually, normally, often, sometimes, occasionally, once, seldom, rarely, never
Example sentences:
Usage: Tells about where something happens or where something is.
Example words: Here, everywhere, near, nearby, down, away,... [Read more]
Do TEFL teachers need a second language? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
The simple answer is no, you do not need to have any knowledge or experience of languages other than English to take a TEFL course or to become an EFL teacher. The ability to speak other languages is not required as the vast majority of TEFL classrooms around the world rely on the communicative approach to English teaching that specifies that English is the only language used in the classroom.
How can I teach English if I don't speak the student's language?
Does it help if a teacher has learnt a foreign language?
Should I learn the local language while teaching English abroad?
In a diverse EFL classroom, where students may hail from varied linguistic backgrounds, speaking one or two native languages isn't always beneficial. In fact, in monolingual settings, students might lean on... [Read more]
Do you need to be bilingual to teach English? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
The straightforward answer is NO. Aspiring TEFL instructors often wonder about this, but the primary requirement is a profound mastery of English. While knowing the native language of your destination country can offer advantages in daily life and understanding cultural nuances, it is not a prerequisite for most employers. Your expertise in English will foster an immersive learning environment, encouraging students to actively engage with the language.
What will I need to teach English as a foreign language?
How will I teach English if I don't speak the local language?
What are the benefits of learning the local language?
How to learn another language while teaching English abroad
The prerequisites often differ based on the region and specific employer. Universally, a profound grasp of... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Pronunciation And Phonology/manner Of Articulation Part 1 - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
When it comes to manner of articulation, we have six different ways in which our breath is produced in order to make our sounds. We have our plosives, our affricates, fricatives, the nasal sounds, our lateral sound and the approximants. Let's take a look at each individually and see how they differ from one another. First we have our plosive sounds. As the word might indicate we have basically a little explosion of sound with our breath. The plosive sounds are made through a three-step process. First there's a closure somewhere in the vocal tract. Second there's a buildup of air and finally there's a sudden release of that air like a little explosion. If we look at some of the sounds that are made this way we might better understand why they are called plosives. Examples are the... [Read more]
TEFL vs TESOL - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
The generally recognized acronym for the field of teaching English is ELT which simply means:
English Language Teaching.
Within this huge field there are a number of specialisms. One such specialism is the teaching of English to learners for whom English is not their first language. Three common acronyms that are often used when applied to this scenario are TEFL, TESL and TESOL.
By defining the terms we will show that the idea of comparing one versus the other, i.e. “TEFL vs TESOL” is not particularly useful. So what do they mean?
When the English teaching is to non native speakers and takes place in a country where the first language is not English. Examples would be teaching English in Peru or teaching English in Taiwan.
TESL applies when teaching English to non native speakers in a... [Read more]
Action and Service: Nurturing Responsible Students in IB Programs - TEFL Blog
Ahmed Taha
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
The International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), aim to develop students who are active, compassionate, and engaged in their communities. Both the PYP and the MYP emphasize the importance of action and service as integral components of a holistic education. While the PYP focuses on "Action," and the MYP emphasizes "Service and Action," there are several commonalities between these two concepts. This article will explore the similarities and connections between Action in the PYP and Service and Action in the MYP, highlighting their shared principles, outcomes, and benefits for student development.
Shared Principles
Outcomes and Objectives
Types of Action
Student... [Read more]
Last posts written by Elizaveta
Liza is a translator, freelancer and ESL teacher from Russia. She had been teaching in a Chinese bilingual school for more than two years and recently moved to Thiland to run her blog about teaching and freelance job.
Elizaveta Pachina
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
This blog post was written by a recent ITTT TEFL graduate who considers the problem of ESL teaching materials. ✅ Read this article to find out how to create and implement teaching materials in TEFL teaching.
Elizaveta Pachina
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
This blog post was written by a recent ITTT TEFL graduate who considers the problem of ESL classroom management. ✅ Read this article to find out how to manage any TEFL class in 7 easy steps.
Elizaveta Pachina
TEFL... [Read more]
The World Of TEFL and TESOL Explained
Sarah Jennings
TEFL Information
Learning a new language differs whether it occurs during early childhood or later in life. Nevertheless, in both scenarios, breaking a language barrier is essential for the student's progress and success. So, how do we break it so students can efficiently communicate in English?
Sarah Jennings
TEFL Information
Whether you want to make it your full-time job or teach English on the side, teaching one-to-one lessons will allow you to have access to additional employment options.
Sarah Jennings
TEFL Information
Parents are the initial educators in every child's life. Their involvement significantly influences a child's success in school, leading them toward a life enriched with knowledge. Parents demonstrate to children how to develop independence... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Tesol Tefl Reviews Tesol Review From Alina - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
In this TEFL review video Alina tells us that he graduated from ITTT's 120-hour online TEFL course. Alina is from the Ukraine and thought that the course was very well structured and the information is precise. She also appreciated the great tutor support she received throughout the course.
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The World Of TEFL and TESOL Explained from: 30
Linda Dunsmore
Budget and Salary TEFL Information Teaching Ideas
Unlock a world of opportunities in Business English education with our comprehensive guide. Learn how to get certified, refine your resume, find the best teaching jobs, and succeed as a freelance teacher. Join us as we explore the dynamic field of Business English instruction.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Explore the dynamic world of online English language learning for children. Discover effective strategies to engage young learners, navigate challenges, and create an enriching virtual classroom experience.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Unlock the complexities of teaching English grammar with insights into parts of speech, verb tenses, voices,... [Read more]
The World Of TEFL and TESOL Explained from: 40
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Discover effective strategies to enhance your language learning journey. Explore the importance of reading skills, context clues, and authentic materials.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Unlock the secrets of effective language teaching with the ESA methodology. Learn how structure and engagement boost student learning.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Unlock doors to a world of opportunities through language learning. Explore its impact on culture, education, and personal growth.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
EFL teachers come from a variety of backgrounds and it is often surprising just what experiences the people who enter the profession have. There are... [Read more]
The World Of TEFL and TESOL Explained from: 10
Federico Riva
Destinations TEFL Information
Within the teaching of English as a second language (ESL) there are several classifications of learner scenarios. You have probably heard of graded classes versus mixed ability classes as an example. Another major classification is monolingual versus multilingual classes.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Second language acquisition is the name given to an educational theory of how we acquire a second language. It is similar to the way we pick-up our native language and is often contrasted with the term ‘language learning’, which is a formal process of instruction in a language.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
One of the most important differences is that whilst the... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Tesol Tefl Reviews Tesol Review From Patrick - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
In this TEFL review video Patrick tells us that he graduated from ITTT's 120-hour online TEFL course. Even though Patrick is a native speaker of English, he was surprised how much he learned from the course. He was very satisfied with the amount of material provided during the course and recommends it to anyone wanting to teach English abroad.
[Read more]
Our ITTT TEFL and TESOL Alumni Stories from: 20
Federico Riva
Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Discover why mastering grammar is essential for language learners. Explore how it bridges linguistic gaps, elevates fluency, and unlocks the nuances of language. Uncover the five compelling reasons to make grammar the cornerstone of your language journey.
Tho Nguyen
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Exploring ADHD in children and effective strategies to improve their focus, engagement, and performance in school. Discover how meditation, exercise, engaging activities, and rewards can make a significant difference in their lives.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In general you will get what you pay for. This is true for most things and a quality, well designed and... [Read more]
Our ITTT TEFL and TESOL Alumni Stories from: 40
Federico Riva
Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Discover the enchanting power of stories in early childhood English learning. Uncover the motivation, real-life examples, and lifelong benefits they bring.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Discover how a teacher's evolving role and nurturing relationships impact students' learning journey and future success.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Discover proven strategies to engage every student in large classrooms, from personal connections to group activities.
Sara Stojanovic
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Explore Gardner's 8 intelligences and tailor your teaching methods to tap into students' unique strengths for effective... [Read more]
Our ITTT TEFL and TESOL Alumni Stories from: 30
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Discover effective strategies to enhance your language learning journey. Explore the importance of reading skills, context clues, and authentic materials.
Federico Riva
Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Discover the adaptable and student-centered ESA method, a proven framework for teaching English as an L2 effectively. Learn how it enhances real-life language use and promotes interactive learning.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
Unlock the secrets of effective language teaching with the ESA methodology. Learn how structure and engagement boost student learning.
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
Unlock doors to a world of opportunities through language learning. Explore its... [Read more]