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TEFL Essentials

This course is for people who want to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL).

TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a comprehensive introduction to the field of TEFL.

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This course is for people who want to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL).

TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a comprehensive introduction to the field of TEFL.

It covers a wide range of topics, including the history of TEFL, the different approaches to TEFL, the needs of English language learners, and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons.

In short, easy-to-follow video lectures, you'll learn everything you need to start teaching English to foreign language speakers.

Upon successful completion of this course, you will understand how English is taught to speakers of other languages and be able to plan your own English language lessons.

You will learn the background and theories of teaching English as a foreign language and become equipped with the knowledge you need to better understand and teach English language learners.

2023 Update: Now includes 21 PowerPoint Games & Activities for Teaching English.

You'll learn how to use a variety of games & activities with students of all ages and levels. Each game and activity includes a PowerPoint download so that you can use them in both online and face-to-face lessons.

TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language can be taken alone but it can also be taken in preparation for the CELTA or another face-to-face TEFL course.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn past and current tefl teaching methodologies
  • Be able to plan engaging english language lessons
  • Know how to teach different types of students and lessons
  • Be able to effectively organise and manage an english class
  • Learn how and when to correct errors in speech and writing
  • Know how to assess students

Syllabus

Know what to expect from the course
Welcome to the course!
2021 Update: Teaching Post-Covid19
Teaching the English Language
Read more
English Language Teaching Approaches
The Communicative Apporach
English Language Teachers
Qualities of Great Teachers
Teacher Responsibilities
Understand who is learning English, where they are learning it, and why.

It’s estimated that over one billion people around the world are learning English as an additional language. But who are they?

Understand how students' cultural, linguistic, and educational backgrounds can impact English language learning.

As English language teachers we must consider the reasons why our students are learning English. Learners' reasons for learning English directly affects the lessons we plan and the materials we use.

An introduction to the variety of reasons learners have for studying English around the world.


English language lessons take place all around the world in a variety of different learning contexts.

Understand the contexts in which people learn English around the world and how this affect you as an English language teacher.

How is English learned?

Not everyone learns in the same way. Understanding your students' learning styles will be beneficial for you in planning lessons that cater to all students.

In this video lecture you will eplore learning styles and understand how they can be used when teaching English

How can students’ first language affect learning English?

Understand L1 and how it can affect English language students.

Learner Profile

Writing a learner profile is an important skill for teachers to possess.

Understand the importance of learner profiles and know how to write one.

Lesson Planning
Introduction to lesson planning
Lesson aims
TEFL lesson frameworks
Stages of an English lesson
A detailed lesson plan
Teaching From Coursebooks
An introduction to coursebooks
Planning a lesson from a coursebook
Language Skills
Introduction to skills
Receptive skills
Productive skills
Teaching Language Skills
Teaching a reading skills lesson
Teaching a listening skills lesson
Teaching a speaking skills lesson
Teaching a writing skills lesson
Classroom management
What is classroom management?
Starting your class
Organising seating
Organising learners
Learner Errors
What are errors?
Errors and error correction in written English
Errors and error correction in spoken English
Assessing English language learners
"I'm very fine!" Teaching Extreme Adjectives for Feelings
Lower Level: What animal is it?
You'll be equipped with 21 Powerpoint-based games and activites to use when teaching English.
Lower Level: 9 Vegetables
Lower Level: Jigsaw Reveal - Household Items
Lower Level: Photo peep - What Fruit Is It?
Lower Level: Photo Peep - Fruit or Vegetable?
Lower Level: Transport Snap
Lower Level: What's Missing? - Fruit
Lower Level: Where is it? Places in a City
Lower Level: What Are They Doing? physical Activities
Elementary - Intermediate Level: 4 Clue Quiz - What Animal Is It?
Elementary - Intermediate Level: 12 Dinosaurs
Elementary - Intermediate Level: Food — Healthy or Unhealthy Photo Peep
Elementary - Intermediate Level: Lost in Space
Elementary - Intermediate Level: Spot the Difference — In the Park
Elementary - Intermediate Level: What is it? Animals
Elementary - Intermediate Level: Wh- Word Snakes & Ladders
Intermediate+ Level: Question Time: Your Job
Intermediate+ Level: Quiz — What's the Movie Tagline?
Intermediate+ Level: Stranded!
Intermediate+ Level: Where in the World? Countries
Intermediate+ Level: What's their Job? (Uniforms)
Intermediate+ Level: What's the Phrase?

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Can be taken alone or as a precursor to the CELTA or another face-to-face TEFL course, making TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language appropriate for those wanting to teach English and wanting to become certified in order to do so
May be self-paced
Includes 21 PowerPoint-based games and activities for teaching English to use for both online and in-person learning
Covers a wide range of topics necessary to teach English as a foreign language
Provides learners with the background and theories of teaching English as a foreign language
Uses easy-to-follow video lecture format

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Reviews summary

Tefl essentials: average course

According to students, TEFL Essentials is an informative course that may not be sufficient to prepare learners for teaching English.
May not be enough for beginners.
"It was informative."
"However I am brand new to TEFL and this course did not adequately prepare me to start teaching English."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language with these activities:
Review Past Coursework
Brush up on the fundamental concepts and methodologies of teaching English as a foreign language to enhance your understanding in this course.
Show steps
  • Go over notes and assignments from previous TEFL courses or relevant linguistics coursework.
  • Revisit key concepts such as language acquisition theories and teaching approaches.
  • Refresh your understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation rules.
Read 'Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages: A Course for Teachers' by Adrian Holliday
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of TEFL by delving into this foundational text.
Show steps
  • Read through the chapters covering core concepts and methodologies.
  • Take notes on key ideas and practical tips for effective teaching.
  • Reflect on how the insights from the book can enhance your teaching approach.
Lesson Planning Exercises
Develop your lesson planning skills by engaging in practical exercises that simulate real-world teaching situations.
Browse courses on Lesson Planning
Show steps
  • Create lesson plans for different levels and learning objectives.
  • Incorporate a variety of teaching methods and activities into your plans.
  • Practice sequencing and timing your lesson activities.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Join a TEFL Study Group
Connect with fellow TEFL learners and engage in discussions, share experiences, and provide support to enhance your understanding of the subject matter.
Browse courses on TEFL
Show steps
  • Join an online or in-person TEFL study group or forum.
  • Actively participate in discussions and ask questions.
  • Collaborate on lesson planning or teaching strategies.
Develop Teaching Resources
Solidify your understanding of TEFL principles by creating your own teaching resources, such as lesson plans, worksheets, or multimedia materials.
Browse courses on Teaching Materials
Show steps
  • Brainstorm ideas for engaging and effective teaching resources.
  • Design and develop the resources using appropriate tools and formats.
  • Test and refine your resources to ensure their effectiveness.
Pronunciation Exercises
Improve your pronunciation skills to enhance your ability to teach English accurately and effectively.
Browse courses on Pronunciation
Show steps
  • Practice pronouncing individual sounds and words.
  • Listen to native English speakers and imitate their pronunciation.
  • Record yourself and compare your pronunciation to native speakers.

Career center

Learners who complete TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
ESL Teacher
An ESL Teacher teaches English as a second language to students in countries where English is not the native language. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, is designed specifically to help you get started teaching English as a foreign language. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of TEFL and different approaches to TEFL, to the needs of English language learners and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons.
EFL Teacher
An EFL Teacher teaches English as a foreign language to students in countries where English is not the native language. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, is designed specifically to help you get started teaching English as a foreign language. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of TEFL and different approaches to TEFL, to the needs of English language learners and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons.
TESOL Teacher
A TESOL Teacher teaches English to speakers of other languages. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, is designed specifically to help you get started teaching English as a foreign language. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of TEFL and different approaches to TEFL, to the needs of English language learners and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons.
English Teacher
An English Teacher helps students to learn the English language. Studying this course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, can be incredibly helpful for you to develop foundations in teaching others English as a foreign language. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of TEFL and covers a wide range of topics, including the history of TEFL, the different approaches to TEFL, the needs of English language learners, and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons.
Language Instructor
A Language Instructor teaches foreign languages to students. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, is specifically designed to help you get started in teaching English. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of TEFL and different approaches to TEFL, to the needs of English language learners and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons.
Foreign Language Teacher
A Foreign Language Teacher teaches a language other than the native language to students. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, can provide you with a valuable foundation by teaching you about TEFL and how to plan and deliver effective lessons.
Literacy Tutor
A Literacy Tutor helps people to learn to read and write. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful for you to develop your teaching skills. In particular, you will learn how to plan and deliver effective lessons, which is an essential skill for any Literacy Tutor.
Instructional Designer
An Instructional Designer creates and develops educational programs and materials. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, can help you with the development of effective English language learning materials. Specifically, it can help you to understand the needs of English language learners, and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons, both of which are skills that an Instructional Designer needs.
Education Consultant
An Education Consultant provides advice and guidance on educational matters. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful for you to develop your knowledge of English language teaching. In particular, you will learn about the different approaches to TEFL and the needs of English language learners, both of which are important for an Education Consultant to know.
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer creates and develops educational programs and materials. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, can help you with the development of effective English language learning materials. Specifically, it can help you to understand the needs of English language learners, and how to plan and deliver effective TEFL lessons, both of which are skills that a Curriculum Developer needs.
Teacher
A Teacher helps students to learn and grow. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful to you to develop your teaching skills. In particular, you will learn how to plan and deliver effective lessons, which is an essential skill for any Teacher.
Adult Education Teacher
An Adult Education Teacher teaches adults who want to learn new skills or knowledge. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful for you to develop your teaching skills. In particular, you will learn how to plan and deliver effective lessons, which is an essential skill for any Adult Education Teacher.
Content Writer
A Content Writer creates written content, such as website copy, blog posts, and articles. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful for you to build a foundation in the English language before moving into Content Writing. This course can help you become familiar with the English language and develop your writing skills, both of which are essential for a Content Writer.
Academic Researcher
An Academic Researcher conducts research in a particular field. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful to you if you are interested in researching English language teaching. Specifically, it can help you to understand the history of TEFL, the different approaches to TEFL, and the needs of English language learners.
Editor
An Editor reviews, corrects, and revises written content. This course, TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, may be useful for you to build a foundation in the English language before moving into Editing. This course can help you become familiar with the English language and develop your writing skills, both of which are essential for an Editor.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language.
This introductory textbook provides a foundation in the principles and practices of teaching English as a foreign language. It covers topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment.
This practical guide offers insights and advice on all aspects of ELT, from lesson planning and classroom management to materials development and assessment.
This comprehensive anthology explores different approaches and methodologies in language teaching. It includes contributions from leading experts in the field, providing a wide range of perspectives and insights.
This foundational textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of second language acquisition, covering theories, methodologies, and practical implications for language teaching.
This highly respected textbook is designed to guide language teachers in developing their knowledge and skills in teaching ESL/EFL. It covers a wide range of topics, from lesson planning and assessment to language analysis and teaching techniques.
This practical guide offers a wealth of practical tips and advice for teachers of English as a foreign language. It covers everything from lesson planning and classroom management to teaching grammar and pronunciation.
This insightful book provides a comprehensive overview of the role of English as a global language. It explores the historical, social, and cultural factors that have contributed to the spread of English, and examines its impact on the world.
This practical guide provides guidance and support to teachers of English as a foreign language. It covers a wide range of topics, from lesson planning and classroom management to assessment and error correction.
This comprehensive handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of English language teaching. It includes contributions from leading experts in the field and covers a wide range of topics, from theory to practice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of feedback in language teaching. It explores different approaches to feedback, and offers practical advice on how to provide effective and useful feedback to students.
This practical guide provides guidance on how to use digital tools and technologies in language teaching. It offers practical tips and advice on how to use digital tools to enhance the teaching and learning experience.
This comprehensive handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of applied linguistics. It includes contributions from leading experts in the field and covers a wide range of topics, from language policy and planning to language teaching and assessment.

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