Reading Extensively

This test is used extensively by English speaking universities, colleges, private sector businesses and government agencies as a method of assessing proficiency in the English language. Traditionally the test has been available in both paper based and online based formats, however, the paper tests are gradually being phased out as availability of the internet increases around the world. The test is divided into four separate sections, each covering one of the main language skills, i.e., speaking, writing, reading and listening. The student is then awarded an overall score ranging from 0 to 120, with a maximum of 30 points awarded for each language category in the online version of the test. This test does not set a specific pass mark so any organisation that uses it as an assessment of a...  [Read more]

In a TESOL classroom, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of how language development occurs in beginner students. At this stage, learners are typically focused on acquiring basic vocabulary, sentence structures, and pronunciation. They may struggle with producing language fluently and may need support in building their confidence to communicate. Understanding the stages of language development, such as pre-production, early production, and speech emergence, can help teachers tailor their instruction to meet the needs of beginner students effectively. There are various strategies that TESOL teachers can employ to support language development in beginner students. One effective approach is to provide ample opportunities for practice through activities such as role-plays, pair work,...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) are often used interchangeably, but there are nuanced differences between the two. ESL teaching typically refers to teaching English in an English-speaking country to non-native speakers, while TESOL encompasses teaching English in non-English speaking countries or to immigrant populations within English-speaking countries. Both fields involve teaching English language skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking, but the context and target audience differ. In terms of qualifications and training, ESL teaching often requires a Bachelor's degree in education, linguistics, or a related field, along with a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL certificate. On...  [Read more]

One common misconception about teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is that fluency in English is the only requirement to become a successful English teacher. While proficiency in English is crucial, it is not the sole factor that determines one's effectiveness as an English teacher. Teaching English requires a specific set of skills and knowledge, including understanding language acquisition theories, lesson planning, classroom management techniques, and cultural sensitivity. Teachers also need to be able to adapt their teaching methods to suit the needs and learning styles of their students. Another misconception is that teaching English is an easy job that anyone can do. In reality, teaching English as a foreign language is a complex and challenging profession that requires...  [Read more]

Volunteer Teaching As I began my TESOL course in Phuket, I met all types of people wanting to be teachers. Some students needed to work immediately after graduation and others were going on to a college or university to further their academic careers. I was in the position of having to return home and finish other work commitments before I could embark on a teaching career. I soon realized that if I was going to be confident in my new found teaching skills and to have the opportunity to build on what I had learned, I was going to have to do something proactive in the area of teaching English as a second language even though I was not in the position to take a full time teaching position. In pondering my predicament, I realized that I did have an option that would serve me and people...  [Read more]

New Technology in the Classroom Just 20 years ago, cell phones, internet, laptops and digital cameras, to list a few, were restricted to scientists and the science fiction world. Today, these technologies have gained public acceptance and it is almost impossible to imagine our lives without them! It is clear that, in today’s Digital Era, students must learn how to use technology to live, learn and work successfully. As teachers, we hear the call to provide our students with the skills and access to technology they require as citizens of the information and communication age we live in. As a consequence, we have ended up adding one more duty to our list: “The development and use of new educational technologies in our classrooms.” We are constantly exploring ways of incorporating...  [Read more]