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TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and is to almost all purposes the same as TEFL, Teaching English as a Foreign Language. As they are basically the same we will refer to just one from here on: TESOL Most TESOL teaching positions require a minimum qualification of a 120-hour certification. Throughout the industry there are three generally accepted routes to obtaining this qualification. These are through in-class courses, online courses or a combination of both, known as combined (or hybrid) courses. Here the trainee will travel to a location where the course is offered. There are training centers in most countries throughout the world where English is being taught to speakers of other languages. The main advantage of an onsite course is the possibility...  [Read more]

Teaching new vocabulary takes up a large proportion of an ESL teacher's time, particularly when teaching beginners and other lower-level students. Many lessons will be devoted to learning new words, so it is vital that the teacher is aware of the best methods for achieving good results. By using these tried and tested techniques the teacher can ensure that their students will have the best chance of retaining the new language and the confidence to use it both in and out of the classroom. Probably the most effective thing you can do to help your students retain new language is to teach it in context. If you write up a list of new words on the board and expect the class to pick them up immediately then you are most likely going to be disappointed. When introducing new vocabulary it...  [Read more]

In years gone by most training courses required attendance at some form of training center. However, since the explosion of the internet and the wide availability of internet connected devices, online training has gradually become more and more popular. These days online courses have largely become the norm in many fields and they have also become widely accepted by employers as a legitimate route towards qualification. Although there are a few areas where online courses might struggle to replicate their in-class equivalent, online courses are clearly here to stay. If you have made the decision to complete your TESOL training via an online course, the next decision is which one to choose? The first thing to remember is that TESOL courses are normally classified by the average number...  [Read more]

If you have finished a training course and are now TESOL qualified, you are probably ready to start sending out job applications to all the vacant positions you like the look of. For each application you will need to send your CV/resume and an all important cover letter to go with it. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce yourself, to demonstrate your enthusiasm, and to outline why you think you are the best candidate for the job on offer. So when it comes to writing a cover letter for your TESOL job applications, what points do you need to consider? It is typical human nature to take the quick and easy route of using the same cover letter for every job application. However, you are likely to have better results if you tailor your letters to suit each individual job. The...  [Read more]

If you go online and search for free TESOL courses you will be confronted by a confusing array of results. You will find several free course options on offer and many more that are suspiciously cheap. Your initial reaction might be that these options seem like a great deal and you can save some of your hard earned cash to put towards your upcoming teaching adventure, rather than spend it on your TESOL qualification. However, we would recommend you think about a few things before you sign up for any of these so-called ‘great deals’. One common feature of free or suspiciously cheap TESOL courses is that they often do not come with any form of certification included. Once complete, you are then offered various certification options at any extra cost. These options might be a PDF...  [Read more]

Getting TESOL certified can vary in cost depending on the program and institution you choose. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 for a TESOL certification course. Online courses tend to be more affordable, with prices ranging from $200 to $500. In-person courses, especially those that include teaching practice, may be on the higher end of the spectrum. It's essential to research different TESOL programs to find one that fits your budget and meets your needs. Some programs offer scholarships or financial aid to help offset the cost. Additionally, consider the value of the certification and how it aligns with your career goals. Investing in a reputable TESOL certification program can open doors to better job opportunities and higher salaries in the field of...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) to non-native speakers is a rewarding profession that requires patience, creativity, and a strong understanding of both the English language and effective teaching methodologies. Here are some key strategies and tips to help you successfully teach English to non-native speakers. First and foremost, it's essential to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for your students. Encourage participation, respect diversity, and foster a sense of community within the classroom. Building rapport with your students will help create a comfortable atmosphere where they feel motivated to learn. When planning your lessons, consider the language proficiency level of your students. Use a variety of teaching materials and resources, such as...  [Read more]

This common question is not easy to answer as it depends on the individual TESOL course you decide to sign up for. There are many different options to choose from, whether it is an online course, an in-class course, or a course that blends the two study methods. Each study method has a variety of courses and each one comes with its own average completion time. By choosing ITTT as your TESOL course provider you will have access to a wide range of courses with varying lengths, level of difficulty, and study method, which means you should certainly find something to suit your individual situation. In general, TESOL courses are classified by how many hours they take to complete on average. A quick online search will reveal a wide range of courses starting from around 50 hours or even...  [Read more]

The timeline for becoming an ESL teacher will vary for each individual person. However, the journey always starts with a TESOL certification course that provides all the knowledge needed to plan and deliver high-quality lessons in whatever type of classroom you end up working in. Which type of TESOL course you choose to complete will have a big say in how long it will take you to become an ESL teacher. TESOL courses are usually classified by the average number of hours they take to complete, with some being as little as 50 hours or less. These short-format courses offer the chance to get a qualification very quickly, however, they might not be the best approach if you want to have a wide choice of well paid jobs to choose from. Generally speaking, employers of ESL teachers expect to...  [Read more]

The simple convenience of online study means that more and more people are now choosing online TESOL courses compared to in-class TESOL courses. As online courses are flexible in terms of when and how much you choose to study, they can easily be fitted around other existing commitments such as work, study, or family. And of course, all the study can be done without having to leave the house. The financial benefits of online study are also a major factor in their popularity, as they are significantly cheaper than an in-class alternative. Essentially, online TESOL certificate courses offer an affordable way to gain the qualifications you need. TESOL courses from different providers vary considerably in length, difficulty, and price, which makes this hard to answer. At the low end of...  [Read more]

This question is one of the most common asked by TESOL course trainees and one of the most difficult to answer as there are so many variables that can affect it. The main thing to realise when considering this question is that the vast majority of our TESOL course graduates go on to find a teaching job either at home or overseas within a reasonably short space of time. Your choice of destination is one of the most significant factors as demand for ESL teachers varies from one area to the next. In countries such as China, the demand far outweighs the available teachers in many places which is great news for first-time teachers who have no experience to put on their application form. The simple fact is, if you are TESOL qualified and would like to teach in China, you will have little...  [Read more]

Culture shock is a common phenomenon experienced by individuals when they move to a new cultural environment. When teaching English abroad, educators may encounter cultural differences that can trigger feelings of disorientation, frustration, and anxiety. It is essential to recognize that culture shock is a natural response to unfamiliar surroundings and can manifest in various ways, such as homesickness, irritability, or difficulty in adjusting to new norms and practices. By acknowledging and understanding the stages of culture shock, teachers can better prepare themselves for the challenges that may arise while living and working in a foreign country. To effectively manage culture shock when teaching English abroad, educators can employ several strategies to support their well-being and...  [Read more]

Becoming an expert TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) teacher is a journey that requires dedication, time, and continuous learning. The time it takes to reach expert level can vary depending on various factors such as prior teaching experience, educational background, and the level of commitment to professional development. For most people, the process typically begins with obtaining a TESOL certification, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on whether you choose an intensive course or a part-time option. This initial step provides you with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to start teaching English as a foreign language. After completing the certification, many teachers gain experience by working in a classroom...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification courses vary in length, typically ranging from 4 weeks to 6 months. The duration of a TEFL course can depend on various factors, including the type of course, the intensity of the program, the mode of delivery (online or in-person), and the individual's availability to dedicate time to the course. It's important to consider these factors when choosing a TEFL certification program that aligns with your goals and schedule. The length of a TEFL certification course can be influenced by several factors. One key factor is the number of course hours required for completion. A standard TEFL course usually consists of 120 hours of instruction, but some programs may offer more or fewer hours. Additionally, practical teaching components,...  [Read more]

Securing a TESOL teaching contract can vary in duration depending on several factors. Firstly, it's essential to consider your qualifications and experience. If you already hold a TESOL or TEFL certification and have relevant teaching experience, you may find it easier to secure a teaching contract. However, if you are just starting out in the field, it may take longer as you build up your credentials. Networking can also play a significant role in how quickly you secure a TESOL teaching contract. Attending job fairs, connecting with other teachers or schools in the field, and utilizing online platforms can help you find job opportunities more efficiently. The location you are interested in teaching can impact the time it takes to secure a contract. Some countries have high demand for...  [Read more]

English language learners face various challenges in the process of language acquisition. These challenges can include differences in phonology, grammar, vocabulary, and discourse patterns between their native language and English. Additionally, cultural differences may also play a role in shaping how students approach learning a new language. Understanding these challenges is essential in effectively supporting students who are struggling with English language acquisition. There are several strategies that educators can employ to support students who are struggling with English language acquisition. These strategies include providing ample opportunities for language practice, incorporating visuals and realia into lessons, scaffolding instruction to meet individual student needs, and...  [Read more]

2. Strategies for Supporting English Language Learners with Limited Access to Technology Strategies for Supporting English Language Learners with Limited Access to Technology In a world where technology plays a crucial role in education, supporting English language learners with limited access to technology can present challenges. However, there are various strategies that educators can implement to ensure these students receive the necessary support to thrive in their language learning journey. When technology is limited, it is essential to leverage low-tech resources to support English language learners effectively. These resources can include physical materials such as flashcards, textbooks, newspapers, and magazines. By incorporating these resources into lessons, educators can provide...  [Read more]

Finding a TESOL teaching job online can vary in time depending on several factors. These factors include your qualifications, experience, the demand for English teachers in the specific location you are targeting, and the time of year you are searching. Typically, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. When searching for a TESOL teaching job online, it is essential to have a well-organized approach. Start by updating your resume and creating a compelling cover letter that highlights your qualifications and experience in teaching English as a foreign language. Tailor your application materials to each job you apply for to increase your chances of standing out to potential employers. Next, research online job boards, websites, and platforms that specialize in...  [Read more]

In TESOL classes, it is crucial to recognize that students have diverse learning styles. Some learners are visual, preferring to see information in charts, graphs, or images. Others are auditory, learning best through listening and speaking activities. Kinesthetic learners, on the other hand, thrive when they can engage in hands-on activities and movement. By understanding these different styles, teachers can tailor their lessons to cater to all students, ensuring a more inclusive and effective learning environment. To cater to various learning styles, TESOL teachers should incorporate a mix of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic techniques in their lessons. Visual learners may benefit from using colorful visuals, videos, or mind maps to aid comprehension. Auditory learners can engage in...  [Read more]

Becoming proficient in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) methods is a journey that varies for each individual. The time it takes to become proficient depends on several factors, including prior experience, education level, dedication to professional development, and the specific context in which you are teaching. For those new to TESOL, obtaining a TESOL certification can provide a solid foundation in teaching methods, language acquisition theories, and practical classroom strategies. These programs typically range from 120 to 150 hours of coursework and can be completed in a few months either online or in person. However, true proficiency in TESOL teaching methods is more than just completing a certification program. It requires ongoing professional development,...  [Read more]