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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

  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]

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]

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]

  This particular methodology is known as a straight arrow ESA lesson. If every single lesson that we undertook with our students was a straight arrow ESA lesson then it is quite possible that the students would be able to predict what is going to come up next and whilst this is good for the lower level students, then it could potentially become a little bit boring for our higher level students. So what Harmer did in his ideas about ESA, was to generate two other types of ESA lesson that we can use to try and generate a little bit more interest. So, the other two types of ESA lesson that we can follow: The first is known as a boomerang lesson and the second is known as a patchwork lesson and what we're going to do is to have a look at those other types of ESA lesson in a little bit...  [Read more]

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Are you considering teaching English in Taipei? Learn more about the cultural aspects you need to know before embarking on this exciting journey. From the unique teaching methods to the local customs and traditions, understanding the cultural context is essential for a successful and enriching experience. In this guide provided by ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we will explore the cultural aspects of teaching English in Taipei, offering valuable insights and tips for prospective teachers. 1. **Understanding the Taiwanese Education System** 2. **Language and Communication** 3. **Cultural Etiquette and Customs** 4. **Celebrations and Festivals** Before delving into teaching English in Taipei, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the Taiwanese education system. Education...  [Read more]

The Communicative Approach is a widely used teaching method in TESOL that focuses on developing students' ability to communicate effectively in real-life situations. This method emphasizes the importance of interactive and engaging activities that promote language use in authentic contexts. Teachers using this approach often incorporate pair and group work, role plays, and discussions to encourage students to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in meaningful ways. The Communicative Approach also prioritizes the use of authentic materials, such as newspapers, podcasts, and videos, to expose students to real-world language usage. By adopting this method, teachers can create a dynamic and student-centered learning environment that motivates learners to actively engage...  [Read more]

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Teaching Styles We all learn in different ways, and similarly, as teachers we tend to have different ways of teaching which come more naturally for us. As teachers, we need to be aware of what our particular style is, but we should then try to adapt the way we teach to fit the needs of our students as well. There are many different categorizations of teaching styles, but rather than discuss the ways styles are categorized, I will simply summarize the ones most commonly referred to. Probably the most traditional one is the direct instruction style. Direct instruction is very teacher-centered, and provides for little if any student-teacher interaction or group interaction. The teacher is the focus of attention and provides all the information necessary for the student to excel in...  [Read more]

In the field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), high-demand areas refer to regions or countries where there is a significant need for English language instruction. These areas often have a growing economy, increased globalization, or a focus on education as a means of development. Some common high-demand areas for TEFL teachers include countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Understanding the specific needs and requirements of these regions can help you target your job search effectively. 1. **Research**: Begin by researching the specific high-demand areas you are interested in. Look into the educational system, job market, and cultural aspects of the region to determine if it aligns with your preferences and qualifications. 2. **Networking**: Utilize online...  [Read more]

Bilingual Education versus English Only Models Over the years, many debates have arisen in regards to second language instruction (L2), giving prominence to two main models: English Only versus Bilingual Education. English Only uses solely English as the medium for instruction, whereas Bilingual Education, as its name implies, uses both English and the student’s native language. While there are several aspects to the debate, this paper will briefly cover a certain few: cultural sensitivity, accuracy, and segregation. Proponents of the English Only model claim that the use of a student’s native language creates a “cycle of native language dependency,” meaning that the student, to some extent, gets “tethered” to his native tongue. Using solely English in the classroom, advocates...  [Read more]

Foreign Language Experience I come from a country, which is with high cultural values and great diversity. There are different languages spoken and different customs and traditions followed all over India. When I was in school, which was English medium school, we had Marathi and Hindi as our second language, Hindi was introduced from grade 3 and Marathi from grade 4, both these languages have almost similar script but there is a difference in the way we speak the language thus the difference in these two languages. It was easy for me to learn to read and write Hindi. It was very difficult for me to learn Marathi, my struggle worsened as my mother too was not able to help me as being from south of India she had never heard or spoke Marathi .It was compulsory in school to score same amount...  [Read more]