Is Halloween Just An American Holiday

Linda is a passionate traveler and English teacher exploring the world one country at a time. After studying Mandarin Chinese, she moved to Guangzhou, China, to pursue an internship at a German online marketing company. She loved it so much that she decided to move back to China after finishing her Bachelor’s degree in Management in California. After working in online marketing for a while, she got into English teaching. Teaching English overseas has enabled her to experience life in different countries and fund her passion for travel. She taught English in China for a year and also during my her year in South Korea. She’s been living in South Korea since 2015 and returned to working in online marketing and teaching online in 2016 remotely. On her Website, she shares her tips and...  [Read more]

Although it is common for some ESL job interviews to take place over the internet or phone from within the teacher’s home country, many employers still prefer to interview in person on the school premises. Each job interview you have is likely to be a little different from the last, but there are a few simple guidelines you can follow to ensure you give yourself the very best chance of success. It is a well known idea that we form a first impression of someone within seven seconds of the first meeting. Because of this it is crucial that you are aware of some basic interview techniques to avoid blowing your chances before the interview has really begun. The first thing you should always do for every interview is turn up in plenty of time. Once the interview begins don’t forget 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]

  Our 5-day combined TESOL course is a convenient short-format option that might be a good choice if you are currently in North America and are looking to teach English at home or abroad. The course kicks off with an online study section that covers all of the theory side of ESL teaching. Once the online part of the course is complete you then attend one of our training centers for an additional five days of in-class study. The big attraction of this particular course option is it includes additional face to face instruction from a professional teacher trainer that will build on all the things you learned during the initial online study phase. The in-class study section of the 5-day combined TESOL course can be completed at one of our 15 great locations spread across 13 different US...  [Read more]

  The Importance of English Language Education in Latin America Factors Driving the Demand for English Teachers Challenges Faced by English Teachers in Latin America Qualifications and Training for Teaching English in Latin America Opportunities for English Teachers in Latin America Cultural Considerations for Teaching English in Latin America Impact of English Language Education on Latin American Societies Support and Resources for English Teachers in Latin America Future Trends in English Language Education in Latin America Conclusion: Meeting the Demand for English Teachers in Latin America English language education in Latin America is increasingly seen as a key factor in both personal and professional development. As the world becomes more interconnected, proficiency in English...  [Read more]

  The Growing Demand for English Teachers Economic Development and English Proficiency Government Initiatives in Education Globalization and English as a Lingua Franca Cultural Exchange Programs and Language Learning Job Opportunities for English Teachers Importance of English in the Tourism Industry English Language Teaching Certification Benefits of Teaching English Abroad Conclusion: Meeting the Demand for English Teachers The demand for English teachers in Latin America is on the rise due to the increasing importance of English as a global language. As countries in the region seek to participate in the global economy, proficiency in English has become essential for communication and business purposes. This demand is further fueled by the desire of individuals to improve their job...  [Read more]

  Teaching English abroad is a great way to travel the world and experience other peoples and cultures. As English teachers it is important that we take the time to learn about the countries we choose to live and work in not only to show respect to our hosts but also to help our students to learn more productively. Understanding the cultural or social reasons behind why people in different countries behave or react in particular ways can help us to prepare better lessons and activities for our students and develop better relationships with our colleagues. Being aware of the subtle social cues that exist in any society can mean the difference between a truly rewarding experience and one that you wish never to repeat. When considering regions such as Latin America it can be tempting...  [Read more]

  Let's just consider next, when using these resource books, the student book, the workbook and the teachers resource book, what are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using those types of materials? Well, firstly, the main advantage perhaps of using these types of material is that it's quicker than actually creating your own. Secondly, the course books that you will get will be graded for a particular level. So there'll be a set of books for the starter level, a set of books for the elementary level and so on and so forth. So you know that the activities and materials in there will have been graded for level. The use of the book can also offer continuity so that the syllabuses have been covered in a particular way by the book itself and are presented in a logical order....  [Read more]

There are many different locations available to anyone who is looking to teach English abroad. Some people make their decision based on the potential salaries on offer, while others might be more focused on cultural aspects or lifestyle. There are pros and cons to be considered for every region and individual country, so below we have outlined the most popular options to help you towards your final decision. In terms of job numbers, Asia is by far the most popular region for ESL teachers. This huge continent offers a wide variety of opportunities across all kinds of environments. Jobs are plentiful in major modern cities such as Tokyo, Seoul and Beijing, while those looking for a slower pace of life are equally spoilt for choice in parts of Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, to mention...  [Read more]

One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is the unique opportunity it provides for learning a second language of your own at the same time. If you want to improve your Spanish language skills or start them from scratch, there are several great destinations to choose from. Around half a billion people speak Spanish as their first language spread over twenty countries worldwide, and many of these have a decent market for foriegn ESL teachers. For many people who want to immerse themselves in the Spanish culture and language, the obvious choice might well be Spain itself. The country is well known for its historical sites, stunning beaches, and its relaxed attitude to life. Jobs are also easy to find in most major cities and popular tourist resorts, although the largest...  [Read more]

Costa Rica has much to offer those who choose to teach ESL in this part of Central America. A tropical climate, picturesque beaches, exotic wildlife and pristine rainforest are just some of its many attractions. But what visa do you need to live and work in the country? Unlike many other popular teaching destinations, it is technically legal for foreign teachers to work in Costa Rica on a standard tourist visa. Most nationalities, including Americans, Canadians and Western European citizens, are given a 90 day visa on arrival at the airport. Once the visa expires you can simply cross into a neighboring country and then get a new one on your way back into the country. When you first arrive in Costa Rica you are not legally allowed to work until you have registered for a tax number...  [Read more]

The United States is a melting pot of diverse cultures and languages, which is reflected in the rich tapestry of English dialects spoken across the country. From the distinctive twang of Southern accents to the nasally intonations of the East Coast, the variations in American English are as vast and varied as the landscapes that stretch from coast to coast. Understanding these dialectical nuances is not only fascinating from a linguistic perspective but also crucial for effective communication and cultural appreciation. One of the most prominent features of American English is its regional diversity. Each region of the United States has its own unique dialect, shaped by a combination of historical, cultural, and geographical factors. For example, the classic "southern drawl" is often...  [Read more]

If you are considering Spain as a location for teaching English, you certainly won't be alone as it has long been one of the most popular destinations in Europe. However, before you buy a plane ticket why not take a look at Latin America as many teachers find that this amazing region is actually a better option for them. For many people, the opportunity to learn a new language is one of the great benefits of teaching English abroad. When it comes to learning Spanish, the assumption that Spain is the best place to do so is certainly a common one. However, in reality the type of Spanish used in Spain actually uses accents and slang terms that are vastly different to the language spoken in other Spanish speaking countries. In fact, many native Spanish speakers from outside of Spain...  [Read more]

In North America, the salaries for TESOL teachers can vary significantly depending on the location and the type of institution. In the United States, TESOL teachers can earn anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000 per year, with higher salaries typically found in major cities and at prestigious universities. In Canada, the salaries are slightly lower, ranging from $25,000 to $60,000 per year. TESOL teachers in North America often have access to benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, which can add to the overall compensation package. In Europe, the salaries for TESOL teachers also vary widely from country to country. In Western European countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, TESOL teachers can earn between $25,000 and $50,000 per year. In Eastern European...  [Read more]

  Understanding Cultural Diversity in Latin America Importance of Language Proficiency in Teaching English Building Relationships with Students and Colleagues Incorporating Local Customs and Traditions in Lessons Adapting Teaching Methods to Suit Cultural Norms Addressing Socioeconomic Disparities in the Classroom Embracing Different Learning Styles and Preferences Navigating Communication Challenges Effectively Promoting Cultural Exchange and Understanding Professional Development Opportunities for English Teachers Teaching English in Latin America requires a deep understanding of the region's diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. From the indigenous communities in the Andes to the Afro-Latin influences in the Caribbean, each country has its unique cultural identity....  [Read more]

  Understanding the Importance of Cultural Sensitivity in TESOL Courses Tailoring Teaching Methods to Latin American Learners Exploring the Demand for English Teachers in Latin America Adapting Curriculum to Local Educational Systems Overcoming Language Barriers in the Classroom Emphasizing Practical Language Skills in TESOL Training Navigating Work Visa and Legal Requirements for Teaching in Latin America Building Professional Networks in the Latin American TESOL Community Providing Ongoing Support for English Teachers in Latin America Recognizing the Impact of TESOL Courses on Latin American Communities In TESOL courses focused on Latin American settings, cultural sensitivity plays a crucial role in creating effective learning environments. Understanding the cultural nuances and...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become a popular option for those looking to work and travel abroad. A TEFL certification is often a requirement for teaching English in many countries, but visa requirements can vary depending on the destination. Asia is a popular destination for teaching English with countries like China, South Korea, Japan, and Thailand being top choices for many TEFL teachers. Each country has its own visa requirements, but in general, a TEFL certification is often a key component. For example, in South Korea, a TEFL certification of at least 100 hours is required for an E-2 visa. In China, a TEFL certificate is often needed for a Z visa. It's important to research the specific visa requirements for each country in Asia before applying for teaching...  [Read more]

Spain is popular with foreign ESL teachers for many reasons including the consistently booming job market, the easy going culture, the warm climate, and the great food. Jobs can be found all year-round in many areas, but are you eligible to work there legally? The simple answer is no, you do not require a degree in order to legally teach English in Spain. There are no government requirements for teachers to have any kind of academic background and the demand is so high in many areas that employers are equally unconcerned about your degree status. Generally speaking, schools in Spain prefer native English speakers in their classrooms as this is what most local students are looking for. However, they will not simply hire you on that basis without having completed some form of teacher...  [Read more]

The English language holds a significant place in American culture, history, and society. As the primary language spoken in the United States, English plays a pivotal role in communication, education, business, and everyday interactions. Its influence can be seen in various aspects of American life, from literature and media to politics and technology. Understanding the impact of the English language in America provides valuable insights into the country's identity and global connections. The presence of the English language in America dates back to the colonial period when British settlers established the first English-speaking colonies on the East Coast. Over time, English became the dominant language as more immigrants arrived from different parts of the world. The development of...  [Read more]

There is no doubt that South Korea is one of the most popular destinations in the world for teaching English overseas. Each year, many thousands of newly qualified and experienced teachers pour into this part of Asia as the salaries on offer are as good as any in the region and the typical working conditions are very comfortable. On top of this, the economy of South Korea is one of the strongest in Asia, which means that the infrastructure is generally excellent. Crime rates are very low by western standards and there is plenty of scope for exploring and enjoying this friendly and peace loving nation. How much you can realistically earn when teaching English in South Korea will vary depending on several factors such as the employer you work for, your teaching qualifications, and...  [Read more]