Different Phrases In Different Languages

  First and most common we added simply an '-s' for verbs like 'work', 'play'. This is what we typically see within our language. However, when we have verbs with spelling patterns such as ending in '-ch', '-sh', '-z', '-s' and our shorter verbs 'do' and 'go', we have to add our '-es'. Then for verbs the end in a consonant and 'y' we drop our 'y' and add our '-ies'. Finally, we have our irregular verbs 'be' and 'have'. For subject 'I', we use 'am', for the subject 'he', 'she' and 'it', we use 'is', whereas with 'you', 'we', 'they', we use 'are'. Finally, we have 'have', which stays as 'have' for these subjects: 'I', 'you', 'we', 'they' but for 'he', 'she' and 'it', we change 'have' to 'has'. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online...  [Read more]

Slang and Teaching Idioms In TESOL education, idioms appear particularly daunting for students and teachers alike and for this reason they are often neglected in English courses. A brief overview of everyday slang reveals an intimidating array of idioms that could easily go unnoticed by the native speaker but prove confusing for the student of English. On Kenneth Lawrence’s website devoted solely to idioms, he has attempted, like many other books on idioms and websites that focus on them, to organize idioms into coherent categories. The categories are diverse; there are bird idioms, money idioms, and even arm, head and finger idioms. It is clear from the amount of idioms in existence and the limited activities used for teaching them that idioms are a subject for more advanced English...  [Read more]

--- Promoting multilingualism and language diversity in a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) classroom is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students feel valued for their linguistic backgrounds. Additionally, it enhances cultural awareness and sensitivity among learners, promoting respect for different languages and cultures. Moreover, exposure to multiple languages can improve cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Overall, embracing multilingualism and language diversity enriches the educational experience and prepares students to thrive in a globalized world. One effective strategy for promoting multilingualism in the TEFL classroom is encouraging students to share their...  [Read more]

Cebu, located in the Philippines, is a vibrant and diverse city known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and warm hospitality. As a popular destination for tourists and expatriates, it is essential to have a good understanding of cultural sensitivity to ensure positive interactions and relationships with the locals. In this guide, we will explore the importance of cultural sensitivity in Cebu, key cultural norms and practices, and tips for navigating this dynamic and multicultural city. Cultural sensitivity is crucial when interacting with people from different backgrounds, as it helps to build trust, respect, and understanding. In Cebu, a city with a rich history and diverse population, being culturally sensitive can make a significant difference in how you are perceived and...  [Read more]

Teaching English pronunciation is a crucial aspect of language learning as it impacts the overall communicative competence of English language learners. Clear and accurate pronunciation enhances comprehension, fluency, and confidence in speaking English. Without proper pronunciation skills, learners may struggle to make themselves understood, leading to miscommunication and frustration. As a TEFL teacher, focusing on pronunciation helps students develop their listening and speaking skills, enabling them to effectively communicate in real-life situations. There are several effective strategies that TEFL teachers can employ to teach English pronunciation. Firstly, it is essential to introduce phonemic awareness by teaching the sounds of the English language systematically. This includes...  [Read more]

Learning Grammar - English as a Second Language Basics Several months ago during a dinner date, my friends commented on the articulation and enunciation of my speech. They said that they were not accustomed to hearing such language outside of a classroom environment. They suggested that I use utilize this natural ability to teach young children in a formal environment. However, I was deeply entrenched in the business realm and I could not fathom the thought of switching careers at this point in my life. It took a year working abroad in South Korea to reassure myself that a real need was present for my talents. I noticed the true motivation of my South Korean friends to learn the English language. They could readily identify and pronounce certain things but they were hesitant to speak for...  [Read more]

  The idiom "green thumb" refers to the ability to grow plants well, for example: Whenever I buy a plant, it always dies shortly after. I really don't have a green thumb. Because my plants always die, I don't have the ability to grow plants well, hence, I don't have a green thumb. 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 convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. In the classroom, I often use the teaching aids provided by the school, for example; whiteboards, iPads, coursebooks, flashcards, DVD...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) involves various aspects of language learning, including vocabulary and idioms. Vocabulary is essential for language proficiency, while idioms add depth and cultural understanding to communication. Teaching these aspects effectively requires the use of diverse resources that cater to different learning styles and levels of proficiency. In this guide, we will explore some of the best TESOL resources for teaching English vocabulary and idioms, ranging from online platforms to traditional teaching materials. 1. Vocabulary.com: This online platform offers a comprehensive range of vocabulary activities and exercises suitable for learners of all levels. It utilizes adaptive learning technology to customize the learning experience for each student,...  [Read more]

Common Linguistic problems Contronyms, Heteronyms, Idioms, Oh my! English is an extremely complex language. Before a student can be considered truly proficient, he/she must not only master a variety of tenses and irregular verbs, sentence structure and parts of speech, but he/she must also work to understand and master lexical and structural ambiguities. Lexical ambiguities are very common and have a variety of names and definitions depending on the level of ambiguity. Homonyms are words that have the same spelling, but two or more meanings. An example of this is: mean. Is it describing an unkind person? Is it an average? Is someone talking about the definition of a word? Another type of lexical ambiguity is the heteronym. These are words that are spelled the same, but have different...  [Read more]

Before moving abroad as a TESOL teacher, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the culture and language of the country you will be teaching in. Understanding cultural norms, traditions, and etiquette will help you navigate social interactions more effectively. Additionally, learning the local language, even if just basic phrases, can greatly enhance your experience and communication with locals. Consider taking cultural sensitivity training or language classes to prepare yourself for the new environment. Effective classroom management is essential for a successful teaching experience abroad. Familiarize yourself with different teaching strategies and methods that are suitable for English language learners. Understand the importance of creating a positive and inclusive learning...  [Read more]

  There is no simple answer to this question as it depends entirely on which type of TEFL course you choose to study. At ITTT we have a range of courses that are designed to suit the various needs of our trainees, each with its own time scale for completion. Please see below for a breakdown of our various course options. Online courses are often the quickest route towards TEFL certification. If you are in a real hurry a course such as our 60-hour introduction to TEFL may be a good choice as you can conceivably complete it in as little as five days. Even those who prefer to study at a slower rate should find they can complete the course within one month. However, it is worth remembering that the majority of employers worldwide insist on job applicants having a TEFL certificate of...  [Read more]

Enhancing Language Learning Through Creativity Understanding the Importance of Creative Teaching Methods Innovative Strategies for Engaging Young Learners Implementing Fun and Interactive Activities in English Classes 1. Enhancing Language Learning Through Creativity 2. Understanding the Importance of Creative Teaching Methods 3. Innovative Strategies for Engaging Young Learners 4. Implementing Fun and Interactive Activities in English Classes Engaging children in the process of learning a new language can be both challenging and rewarding. When it comes to teaching English to young learners, creativity plays a crucial role in capturing their attention and fostering a love for the language. Traditional teaching methods may not always be effective when it comes to engaging children, which...  [Read more]

Securing a teaching job in South Korea as a TEFL teacher involves thorough research. Start by understanding the visa requirements, which typically include a bachelor’s degree, a TEFL certificate, and a clean criminal record. Research different types of schools in South Korea, such as public schools, private language institutes (hagwons), and international schools, to determine which best fits your preferences and qualifications. Networking with current or former TEFL teachers in South Korea can provide valuable insights and tips on job opportunities. To qualify for teaching positions in South Korea, you will need to obtain a 120-hour TEFL certificate from a reputable provider. Additionally, having a bachelor’s degree in any field is usually a minimum requirement. It’s essential to...  [Read more]

Peculiarities of the English Language The English language was created in England. Throughout history, this language has spread to many parts of the world. It is used as a link language for International business and diplomacy. According to Madhukar N. Gate, it has taken thousands of words from other languages such as French, Latin, German, Greek and so on. We can even find Sanskrit words in English. For example: Guru and Pundit are two Sanskrit words used in English. English grammar is quite simple, in many languages nouns have grammatical gender which makes some verbs and adjectives change. This doesn’t happen in English. The adjective “big” is used with all nouns such as man, woman, child, book etc, as well as applying to both singular and plural nouns. Counting large numbers in...  [Read more]

Experience the power of authentic language practice through online conversations with native English speakers. At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we offer a unique opportunity for language learners to connect with fluent English speakers from around the world. Engaging in real-time conversations is one of the most effective ways to improve your language skills, build confidence, and gain valuable cultural insights. Whether you are a beginner looking to practice basic phrases or an advanced learner aiming to refine your fluency, our platform provides a supportive environment for meaningful interactions. In today's interconnected world, the ability to communicate effectively in English is more important than ever. As the global language of business, education, and technology,...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word "belated". This word refers to something that happened later than it should have. A common use of the word is in the following phrase "Happy belated birthday," used by people who wish someone a happy birthday after the actual birthday. Synonyms for belated include late and overdue. 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 convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. In this unit we had a general introduction to the course and now know what...  [Read more]

  The idiom "white elephant" refers to an expensive item that is costly to maintain, for example: Shortly after Tanya inherited her aunt's castle, it turned out to be a white elephant she could not afford. The phrase originates from a long time ago when white elephants where regarded as precious and even holy in Asia, especially in Thailand. When the king was displeased with someone, he would gift them a white elephant as the upkeeping would likely ruin them. 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 convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each...  [Read more]

In recent years, the English language has significantly impacted Russian culture, shaping various aspects of society, education, and media. This influence has brought about both positive and negative changes, sparking debates and discussions among the Russian population. From the adoption of English words in everyday language to the growing popularity of English-language media, the presence of English has become increasingly prevalent in Russia. One of the most notable impacts of the English language on Russian culture is the facilitation of cultural exchange and globalization. As English is widely regarded as a global lingua franca, its prevalence has enabled Russians to connect with people from different parts of the world, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. This...  [Read more]

Teaching pronunciation in a TESOL classroom is crucial for effective communication. Clear pronunciation helps students be understood by others and boosts their confidence in using the language. It also aids in comprehension, as correct pronunciation can make it easier for learners to understand native speakers and vice versa. Moreover, teaching pronunciation early on can prevent students from developing bad habits that are harder to correct later. 1. Phonemic Awareness: Start by teaching students the individual sounds (phonemes) of the language. Use phonemic charts and activities to help students recognize and produce these sounds accurately. 2. Word and Sentence Stress: Teach students about word and sentence stress patterns in English. Practice stress through activities like reading...  [Read more]

When looking to find TESOL teaching jobs in countries with high demand for English teachers, it is essential to conduct thorough research. Begin by identifying countries where English is not the primary language and where there is a strong emphasis on English language education. Countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America often have a high demand for English teachers. Websites like Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and GoAbroad.com are valuable resources for job postings and information on teaching opportunities in different countries. Additionally, reaching out to TESOL professionals and networking with individuals who have teaching experience in these regions can provide valuable insights and connections. In countries with high demand for English teachers, employers typically seek...  [Read more]