Indirect Questioning

A useful tool for practicing a whole range of language features in an EFL classroom. These can easily be created in survey form and both the functions of questioning and a particular grammar structure for the answer can be covered simultaneously. They can be adapted for all levels of students and the activity of everyone moving around asking and answering questions, is referred to as a “mill drill”.  [Read more]

This is usually indicated by being put into quotation marks, with some other form of verb or mechanism. Direct speech should be a faithful and exact reproduction of what was said. This is contrasted with indirect or reported speech.  [Read more]

This is a sentence that starts with a question word, such as whom, who, what, where, which, why, whose, when or how. It is followed by a question mark at the end. There are other forms of interrogative questions, such as yes/no questions, indirect questions and tag questions.  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word bowdlerize. This word is used to refer to the act of removing improper or offensive material in order to make it weaker or less effective. Some synonyms for bowdlerize include censor, expurgate or edit. 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 lesson, I learned about a direct and indirect speech. I was able to see how to relay to my students the different ways to properly talk and relay...  [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]

When teaching English in East Asia, it is crucial to understand the cultural differences that may impact the learning process. In countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, there is a strong emphasis on respect for authority, group harmony, and indirect communication. Teachers should be aware of these cultural values and adjust their teaching style accordingly. For example, using a more indirect and subtle approach to giving feedback may be more effective than direct criticism. Additionally, being mindful of hierarchical relationships and showing respect for seniority can help build rapport with students. Building strong relationships with students is essential in East Asian cultures. Teachers should take the time to get to know their students on a personal level, showing...  [Read more]

  Before we move on to the planning of a lesson for speaking skills, something that we need to look at first is the idea of the accuracy versus the fluency of speaking. Accuracy relates to the correct usage of grammar and vocabulary, whereas fluency relates to our ability to continue speaking without any interruption. Now, ultimately within a whole ESA lesson or within language learning itself fluency and accuracy are equally important. Within an ESA lesson, however, depending upon which stage we're at in that lesson, then we're either focusing on accuracy or we're focusing on fluency. Remember in the ESA lesson, in the study phase, this is where we're looking at the target language where we're doing our language learning, so it's very important in this stage that we focus on the...  [Read more]

Teaching English to Saudi Arabian students requires a nuanced understanding of cultural considerations to ensure effective communication and learning outcomes. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key cultural factors to consider when teaching English to Saudi Arabian students. From communication styles to educational preferences, we will delve into the unique aspects of Saudi Arabian culture that can impact the teaching and learning process. By gaining insights into these cultural considerations, educators can create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment for their Saudi Arabian students. Saudi Arabian culture places a high value on respect, hierarchy, and indirect communication. When teaching English to Saudi Arabian students, educators should be mindful of these...  [Read more]

{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ [ ] ] } Teaching English to students who have no prior knowledge of the language involves adapting your existing teaching methods to suit the situation at hand. For all beginners, several key teaching strategies are essential: Simplicity in Instruction: Use simple, clear language and instructions. Constant Checking for Understanding: Regularly ensure that students are following along and comprehending the material. Ample Practice Opportunities: Provide numerous opportunities for students to practice what they have learned. Visual and Contextual Teaching: Show, don't tell by using visual aids and real-life contexts. Positive Reinforcement: Encourage students with positive feedback....  [Read more]

Understanding the cultural nuances of Thailand is essential for English teachers working with Thai students. In this guide, we will explore key considerations to keep in mind when teaching English to Thai learners. 1. **Thai Cultural Values**: Thai culture places a strong emphasis on respect, hierarchy, and saving face. Teachers should be mindful of these values in the classroom to create a harmonious learning environment. Showing respect to students, addressing them by their titles, and avoiding public criticism are crucial aspects to consider. 2. **Language and Communication**: Thai is a tonal language, which can pose challenges for Thai learners when pronouncing English words. Teachers should be patient and provide additional support in pronunciation and intonation. Additionally,...  [Read more]

Critical thinking is a vital skill in language learning as it enables students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information effectively. By fostering critical thinking skills, TESOL students can become more independent learners, better problem solvers, and proficient communicators. Critical thinking also enhances their ability to understand and appreciate different perspectives, thereby improving their intercultural competence. Moreover, critical thinking skills are essential for academic success, as they enable students to engage critically with course material, conduct research, and present their ideas coherently. There are several effective strategies to promote critical thinking skills in TESOL students. Encouraging students to ask questions, analyze information from multiple...  [Read more]

  Our final methodology is accredited to Jeremy Harmer and it's known by the letters ESA. Around 1998, Jeremy Harmer produced a book called "How to teach English" and basically what Harmer did, is a background to this book is to do what we have done today and to work through all of the different methodologies that have come about over the last 300 years. He highlighted for each of those methodologies what was good about it, what was positive and what didn't appear to work and then put all of the positive things into a melting pot and came out with this methodology, which he called ESA. It's a three-stage methodology, where each of the letters represents a particular phase of the lesson. The first one being called the engage phase, the second the study phase and the final one the...  [Read more]

Feedback is an essential component of the language learning process in TESOL. It helps students understand their strengths and weaknesses, motivates them to improve, and enhances their language acquisition. As a TESOL teacher, providing constructive feedback is crucial in guiding students towards proficiency in English. Effective feedback fosters a supportive learning environment, encourages students to take risks in using the language, and boosts their confidence in communication skills. When providing feedback to English language learners, it is important to focus on both positive aspects and areas for improvement. Encouraging students by highlighting their progress and achievements can motivate them to continue learning. Constructive criticism should be specific, actionable, and...  [Read more]

In Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), providing feedback is crucial for students to improve their language skills. There are various types of feedback that teachers can utilize to help students enhance their language proficiency. These include corrective feedback, which involves pointing out errors and providing the correct form, and metalinguistic feedback, where teachers provide explanations to help students understand the rules behind the errors they made. Additionally, there is praise feedback, which involves acknowledging and reinforcing students' correct language use to boost their confidence and motivation. To ensure that feedback is effective in TESOL, teachers can employ several strategies. One approach is to prioritize errors that hinder communication,...  [Read more]

Critical thinking skills are essential in TEFL as they enable students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information, leading to deeper comprehension and better language proficiency. These skills empower students to think independently, make logical connections, and solve problems effectively. In today's globalized world, where English is a key to accessing information and opportunities, fostering critical thinking skills is crucial for students to become competent language users and active participants in society. There are various strategies that teachers can employ to nurture critical thinking skills in their TEFL classrooms. Encouraging questioning, promoting discussions, and using real-life scenarios are effective ways to stimulate critical thinking. Teachers can also incorporate...  [Read more]

Feedback is a crucial component in the language learning process as it helps students understand their strengths and areas for improvement. In TEFL, providing feedback is essential for guiding students towards language proficiency. Effective feedback can motivate students, boost their confidence, and enhance their language skills. It also helps teachers assess student progress and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. There are various types of feedback that teachers can provide to TEFL students. These include corrective feedback, which focuses on correcting errors in language use, and positive feedback, which reinforces correct language production. Additionally, indirect feedback, such as recasts or clarification requests, can help students self-correct errors. Formative feedback...  [Read more]

Understanding the cultural norms and etiquette in Vietnamese classrooms is essential for foreign teachers looking to make a positive impact on their students. By respecting and adhering to these customs, teachers can create a harmonious learning environment that fosters mutual respect and effective communication. In this guide, we will explore the key etiquette practices in Vietnamese classrooms, including the importance of hierarchy, communication styles, and teacher-student relationships. In Vietnamese culture, hierarchy plays a significant role in social interactions, including those within the classroom. Teachers are highly respected figures, and students are expected to show deference and obedience to their instructors. It is essential for teachers to establish their authority early...  [Read more]

--- Creating a positive and inclusive learning environment for LGBTQ students in the TEFL classroom starts with understanding LGBTQ terminology and identities. Educators should familiarize themselves with terms like LGBTQ, gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression. It is essential to recognize that LGBTQ students may identify in various ways, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or other identities. By educating oneself on these terms and identities, teachers can better support and affirm LGBTQ students in the classroom. --- Inclusivity in the TEFL classroom involves implementing inclusive language and practices. Teachers should use gender-neutral language whenever possible to create a welcoming environment for all students. Avoiding assumptions...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a second language involves more than just grammar and vocabulary; it requires an understanding of the cultural context in which the language is spoken. Cultural awareness is crucial for creating an inclusive and effective learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds. By being sensitive to cultural differences, teachers can help students feel more comfortable and engaged in the learning process. Moreover, understanding the cultural nuances of the language can enhance students' language acquisition and communication skills. When teaching English in a foreign country, it's essential to recognize and respect the cultural differences that may impact the classroom dynamic. These differences can manifest in various ways, such as communication styles, attitudes...  [Read more]

When teaching English in the Middle East, it is crucial to understand and respect the cultural differences that exist in the region. These differences can manifest in various aspects such as communication styles, social norms, and religious beliefs. Educators need to familiarize themselves with the local customs, traditions, and values to ensure that their teaching approaches are culturally sensitive. By acknowledging and embracing these differences, teachers can create a more inclusive and respectful learning environment for their students. Building rapport and trust with students in the Middle East is essential for effective teaching. In many Middle Eastern cultures, relationships are highly valued, and trust is an integral part of the teacher-student dynamic. Teachers should prioritize...  [Read more]