Why Learning English Is Difficult

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas I have taught English in a classroom setting to large groups of adults for 4 years through a non-profit agency located in a mixed-race urban area of the United States. More recently, I have been teaching English to foreign learners on a one-to-one basis via video chat, also for four years. Given this background, I can speak from a wealth of personal experience to the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each. As my goal is to continue to teach individuals online, I was admittedly skeptical of what I might gain from a TEFL course, as most certification programs are geared toward classroom teaching abroad. Having completed the ITTT course, I find myself very satisfied with having gone through the process, as I have gained many new resources for my...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences ESL teachers must acknowledge that it is not equal teaching English Lessons to children, teenagers, and adults, there are some wide differences between the practices used in each case, classroom, population, levels, and country where English is taught, on this paper we will check how an ESL lesson may be affected by these variables, and how we could overlap them on the practices used in teenagers and adults English lessons. Basic concepts Self-concept Personal Experience Adults learning process Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Javier V. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. To analyze all the...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences As a former teacher of English as a foreign language, I have some experience teaching business English. Majority of my classes were for general English conversation. However, as I continued teaching, my workload increased to include a few business-focused classes. At first, I was intimidated and nervous about teaching these students. Did I have enough knowledge about business to teach them? Would I have the information they needed? After a lot of preparation and a few lessons, I realized that business classes are not much different than regular English classes and I need not know much about business to be a successful business English teacher. Businessmen Are Ordinary Learners Teacher's Responsibilities My Experience Are You Ready to Teach Business...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas There are many different types of peculiarities when concerning the English language, and this essay is aimed at the difficulties in teaching those peculiarities to learners that are not fluent in the English language. It can be difficult for native English speakers to progressively learn the subtle nuances as children graduating to young adults and navigating complexities of the language as adults; deciphering whether or not these peculiarities warrant further investigation or retention based on usage and context. These oddities of the English language can be exponentially more difficult for those attempting to learn the English language as a second language, having fully grasped the complexities of their own language only to have to navigate the...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Thailand is famously known as " the land of smiles". In some situations, smiling is the way to save face or to avoid conflicts. This often includes the time when Thai people have to communicate with foreigners in English and have no idea what the other meant. They simply smile to get out of a situation instead of making the best out of it by practicing their English speaking skill. On the other hand, they build up a fear of making mistakes and avoid being in that particular circumstance in the future. As English today plays important roles in tourism and the Thai economy as a whole, still, Thai people struggle to communicate effectively. Here are some areas suggested why it is difficult for Thai learners to improve their speaking skills. Cultural Aspects...  [Read more]

Minh Huy Hoang TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In an era defined by technological advancements, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education has become increasingly prevalent. One notable area where AI has made significant strides is in the realm of language learning, especially for foreign students studying English. This dynamic relationship between AI and English language acquisition has not only transformed the way individuals learn but has also opened up new possibilities for personalized and efficient learning experiences. Tailoring Instruction to Individual Needs Engaging Tools and Immersive Learning Bridging Formal and Informal Learning AI and Human Instructors: A Perfect Duo Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Most would say it's an almost impossible task, one that requires a lot of patience and repetition. How are you supposed to keep their interest? How do you communicate to them efficiently despite not being physically present? Teaching children may not be an easy task, however, I believe it would be a most rewarding one. Teaching online is something that I have been keen on and would like to venture into after completing this course. We are moving into a digital world where we will all soon be connected over the internet. This is a wonderful opportunity to be able to reach and enrich the lives of children globally. Is it a good choice? Cultural exchange Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In the past, some scientists thought young learners do not learn as fast as adults. However today even parents are aware of the importance of starting learning a second language early. Advantages of Early Start Consider the Mix of Abilities Choice of Activities Nursery Rhymes Flashcards GamesThe Main Problems Young English Learners Face In China Stories Are you ready to teach English to younger children? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Safak Ä°. When people start learning at early ages of their life, they increase the probability of gaining better language skills and favorable attitudes to other languages and cultures. Moreover, it will be possible for them to acquire native...  [Read more]

Ramon Perez Teaching Ideas Every day, we learn something new. It can happen on the street, at work, at school and even in our home. We can attain new skills and knowledge through our interactions with our surroundings. Utilizing our 5 senses and past experiences to make sense of what is going on, we can ascertain new concepts and make proper use of them in our daily lives. However, as a teacher, we are tasked with transmitting abstract concepts that become difficult to fully grasp through traditional methods. Consequently, some teachers rely on literal translations to bring the point across. VISUAL AIDS ACTING/ROLE PLAY ENUNCIATION AND SPEECH MIMING CONCLUSION Related Articles: Since the student's exposure to the target language can be extremely limited outside of the classroom, it's...  [Read more]

Hoàng Minh Huy Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In contemporary society, the undeniable role of music encompasses various aspects of entertainment and work. However, its impact extends even further, particularly within the realm of teaching and learning English. Beyond merely assisting educators, music also offers an effective tool for students to effortlessly enhance their English language skills. This essay delves into the multifaceted benefits that music brings to the process of learning English. Enhancing Learning and Memory Through Music Emotional Impact: Music's Role in Motivation A Holistic Approach to Learning: Music's Expansive Benefits Conclusion: The Melody of Progress Are you ready to teach English as a foreign language? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The classroom, a collective space for knowledge, interaction and exchange of information, is now in a good phase with the arrival of technological resources that go far beyond the computer lab or video room. Importance of New Technology How to Use? 1. Teachers can better visualize the difficulties of their students 2. Class leveling can become simpler with technology in the classroom 3. Digital games related to content Examples Of New Technology In Education: Are you ready to implement new technologies in your TEFL classroom? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Iago M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. There is no denying,...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching English as a foreign language presents several opportunities as well as choices for a teacher. Certainly, there are numerous teaching positions around the world in traditional, classroom settings, and most ESL teachers will spend time in those settings. For many teachers, the classroom setting is a fulfilling endeavor; however, other outlets exist for teaching English, including teaching business English. Business English teaching vs. teaching for other purposes Teaching experience Running an Activity Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Robert E. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. There...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In the Chinese area, English as a compulsory course in school has to be learned by students for years. Since the government has strengthened the importance of English in Gaokao (College Entrance Examination ) these days, every Chinese family wants their children to start on English learning as early as possible. There is no need to highlight the importance of English to a Chinese family at all. Bilingual daily life Create English surroundings Apply for online English course Find a foreign teacher Be a good example Regular reading Communicate with teachers Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Xiaoyu Z. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Teaching Ideas Image by Alice Bolden via Writix Listen to this blog post: Think outside the box Encourage creativity, not perfection Encourage students to write about what interests them Writing doesn't have to be a solo activity Introduce multi-skilled lessons Writing games Are you ready to teach writing skills in your own classroom? Related Articles: Of all the language skills that are taught in the ESL classroom, teaching writing skills is often seen as one of the least popular. Some teachers consider these lessons to be a bit boring, hard to evaluate and somewhat limited in what you can incorporate into them. However, this doesn't have to be the case as teaching writing skills to your ESL students can actually be interesting, fun and productive. Take a look at these...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Pronunciation problems in El Salvador is very common, as many know Spanish is the main Language in this country, people in El Salvador tend to speak their native Language all the time because this is what they feel more comfortable with, as there is not any other dialect, other than Spanish, they are taught English in school, English Is the only language taught in El Salvador in public schools, but only for those that can attend one, this is because there are many people that can't attend a school due to economic matter, family problems or due to the work that is done in their household many don't have time to study and there are kids that can't attend school because they have to work, but there are many that do go to school and take English classes....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas It is an undeniable fact that English nowadays has become the most influential language in the world. Many throughout the world seek to learn it as knowing it is now a must to find a good job or find good opportunities in one's life, which is why we can find countries that are rife with various English courses. This is especially true in Turkey. Where English is in high demand as everyone in the country is starting to realize its importance. It is also worth noting that the vast majority of the country do not have adequate English skills, especially in speaking, mastering said skill is a dream for many Turkish people. Students' Attitude Issues in the Educational System Unmotivated Teachers Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related...  [Read more]

For TEFL-qualified teachers seeking the best places to teach English in Spain, top cities to consider include Madrid, the vibrant capital; Barcelona, known for its rich art and architecture; and Seville, the heart of Andalusian culture. Other noteworthy options include Granada and Palma de Mallorca, both of which offer unique cultural experiences and teaching opportunities. Also read: How do I find a job teaching English in Spain? Madrid Barcelona Seville Granada Palma de Mallorca The capital of Spain, Madrid, houses over 3 million residents, and its thriving English language learning community ensures an abundance of teaching positions. Both public schools and private language institutes frequently seek new staff, while private tutoring can provide a profitable avenue. On average, Madrid...  [Read more]

While a degree can be beneficial, it is entirely possible to teach English online without one. Although some employers might prioritize degree holders, many value experience and certifications. To boost your chances of getting hired, it is important to understand employer preferences, continuously upskill, and be strategic about where you apply. Popular platforms for non-degree holders include Preply, Cambly, Palfish, and Acadsoc. Why do some online teaching jobs require a degree? What do you need to teach English online? Which TEFL course should I get for teaching English online? Normally, employers require a degree in order to obtain a work visa when hiring someone to teach English abroad. Visas are not a problem, though, when it comes to teaching online - so why do they still want...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Stories are a powerful tool for engaging students in learning. Stories are capable of meeting young learners at their level by making language concepts engaging and interesting. They provide the sort of context and emotional stakes that are important for thorough language acquisition in a subtle way that doesn't always feel like sitting at a desk and learning through drills. This is why stories are an especially important tool when it comes to teaching young learners. Stories can provide motivation to learn, real-life examples of language usage, and an out-of-classroom opportunity to continue learning. Engaging Young Learners Real-Life Language Usage Fostering Independent Learning The Enduring Power of Stories Are you ready...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences British English (BrE) and American English (AmE) are two of the main varieties of the English language. There are other different varieties of English that exist such as Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, South Asian and African English. Language Structure 1. Vocabulary and Spelling 2. Grammar Historical Prerequisits Diplomatic Relationships Globalization Do you want to teach English in Japan? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: Although English was introduced to America through the colonization period by the British, the two varieties of English have evolved to be quite different from each other in certain areas. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Shanique H. Please note that this blog post might...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences "Our lives gain meaning only when we tell our story". -David Steindl-Rast. In our case, stories not only add meaning to our lives in general but are very important in rendering language learning interesting and creative as our specific subject essay will demonstrate. Stories are an effective model for learning the English language through which we can develop the four language skills writing, speaking, listening, and reading. So why and how stories can enable us to effectively learn the English language? Why stories are so important for English learning in early childhood? How stories can be important for English learning in early childhood? Or how can we use them to develop the four language skills? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Several surveys, such as EF (Education First), have shown that France has the worst English level in the European Union. We shall explain, firstly, why French students have problems in learning English and what these problems are. Then, secondly, we shall share solutions to these problems. Origin of Typical Difficulties Global Status of French Lack of Exposure to English Academical Importance Common Vocabulary Tenses Pronunciation Lesson Ideas Ways to Engage Grammar and Vocabulary Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Mohamed S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Indeed, the difficulties that French...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences English as a spoken language has become the international standard for people as a first or second language, whether it be for business, science, or just recreationally. This, of course, means that a lot of people are learning the language as a second language. For anyone who knows English as a native language, you know that it has many difficult learning curves along the way to the true understanding that make for many difficulties in how new learners communicate. This essay will touch on a few examples that people undoubtedly run into when learning English, and why it's so difficult to master. Reasons to Confusion Spoken English Written English Cultural Issues Do you want to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas If you think of Chinese ESL students it is safe to assume that most teachers would immediately worry about how they should teach phonics to Mandarin speakers. It is also true that the media has portrayed the Chinese accent as one of the most challenging to understand or even get rid of. Personal Experience Phonetical Errors Grammar Challenges Problems Due to Geographical Origin of Students Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Graciela G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Usually, the first thing you will notice as an ESL teacher, speaking from experience, is the difficulty Chinese ESL students face...  [Read more]

Undoubtedly, the demand for online English teachers is surging. With the proliferation of diverse online teaching platforms, students worldwide are accessing specialized English lessons, from one-on-one sessions to group interactions, and from foundational speaking modules to tailored courses for business professionals. This expansive and versatile online English teaching landscape has amplified the need for teachers from varied backgrounds. Are TEFL qualified teachers in demand in English speaking countries? Are online English teachers in demand in China? Yes, TEFL qualified teachers are in demand within English-speaking countries. The online teaching field offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing educators to be based anywhere, from the comfort of their homes to anywhere around the...  [Read more]

Minh Huy Hoang TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In developing countries, encouraging lazy students to cultivate a passion for studying English can be a challenging task. However, with the right strategies and approaches, we can greatly improve their motivation and help them discover the benefits of mastering the English language. This article presents five effective tips to inspire even the laziest of students to love studying English. Tip 1: Make English Relevant to Their Lives Tip 2: Implement Interactive and Creative Activities Tip 3: Foster an Enthusiastic and Supportive Learning Environment Tip 4: Utilize Technology and Multimedia Resources Tip 5: Set Achievable Goals and Celebrate Success Conclusion Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Prior to starting a class, an English teacher needs to take into consideration many parameters. How many students will I have to teach? How old are they? What are their levels? What knowledge did they already acquire in terms of vocabulary and grammar? What are their nationalities? Are the students monolingual or multilingual? Cultural Differences Similarities and Differences in Language Cultural Differences Are you ready to teach students of a different nationality? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post In this blog post, we are going to focus on the problems that an English teacher can encounter when teaching to students of different nationalities and cultures. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Manon L. First of all, it is...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Destinations Teaching Ideas Japan is a country facing rapid change. Due to an aging population and a scarcity of workers, Japan is opening its borders to foreigners, many of whom speak English. This, along with the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, has led to an increase in demand for English teachers. I currently work in Japan, and have had the experience of teaching English to high school Japanese students for the past year. Over the course of this year, I've learned of many problems that students in Japan face when learning English. Of those, the top three problems for students in Japan are pronunciation, shyness, and large class sizes. Listen to this blog post: Differences in Phonology Students' Reluctance to Speak Class Size in Japanese Schools Are you ready to teach English...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Most teachers come to China to teach English with only a general idea about Chinese culture and language which they should have to deal with as soon as they arrive in China. The reason I chose this topic is that I am fluent in Chinese and have experienced Chinese culture in all its facets for over than seven years. But let's not beat around the bush and get down to the nitty-gritty. Shyness/lack of confidence: Grammar issues: Pronunciation issues: Th: /s/ instead of /th/ V: /w/ instead of /v/ (mostly with southern Chinese) Lt: /t/ instead of /lt/ Intonation: Lack of learning structure: Do you want to teach English in China? Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ruben M. Chinese people often seem to be shy or...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences The following blog post is about an ITTT graduate who shares his story on how learning Chinese helped him to become a better English teacher in China. What do you call someone who speaks only one language? "My insights into their language and culture were incredibly helpful." "Many Chinese are anxious about speaking English with natives - more so than is to be considered normative." "The best ESL teachers are the ones with experience with the native language of their students." Listen to this blog post Now it's your turn to get TEFL certified! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph S. A common saying imparted to me by one of my professors goes like this: "What do you call someone who speaks three languages?...  [Read more]