TEFL Essentials: Teaching English as a Foreign Language from Udemy

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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

Reviews summary

Foundational tefl course for beginners

According to students, this course offers a solid foundation in TEFL essentials, making it particularly suitable for those just starting out in the field or considering teaching English. Many learners find the content clear and easy to understand, appreciating the short, digestible video lectures. Recent feedback frequently highlights the value of the updated practical activities and games, describing them as highly useful for lesson planning. While providing a good overview of methodologies, lesson planning, and classroom management, some reviewers suggest the course serves best as an introduction or preparation for more intensive certifications like CELTA, as it may lack sufficient depth for experienced teachers or detailed coverage of every potential scenario.

Helpful as a stepping stone for further study.

"This course is perfect as a pre-CELTA introduction..."

"It gave me a good head start before enrolling in a more intensive course."

"Found this helpful before taking my in-person TEFL certificate."

Helps structure lesson creation effectively.

"The section on lesson planning was particularly helpful for me."

"I now feel more confident creating my own lesson plans."

"Learned useful frameworks for structuring English lessons."

Content is easy to follow and understand.

"The videos are short and easy to digest..."

"The material was presented clearly and concisely."

"I found the explanations very easy to understand."

Recent update adds valuable teaching resources.

"The new Powerpoint games are super useful! I've used them already."

"Loved the updated activities section, very practical."

"The added games and activities package is a real bonus."

Provides essential basics for new teachers.

"This course is a great foundation for anyone starting out in TEFL..."

"I feel I gained a solid understanding of the fundamentals..."

"It covers the essential basics needed to begin teaching English."

May be too basic for experienced teachers.

"As someone with some experience, I found parts a bit too basic."

"Could use more in-depth coverage for advanced topics."

"This course is best for absolute beginners, not experienced tutors."

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

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Brush up on the fundamental concepts and methodologies of teaching English as a foreign language to enhance your understanding in this course.

Browse courses on Teaching English as a Foreign Language

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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

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of TEFL by delving into this foundational text.

View The Struggle to Teach English as an... on Amazon

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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

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Develop your lesson planning skills by engaging in practical exercises that simulate real-world teaching situations.

Browse courses on Lesson Planning

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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

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Show all six activities

Join a TEFL Study Group

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Improve your pronunciation skills to enhance your ability to teach English accurately and effectively.

Browse courses on Pronunciation

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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.

See salaries and explore the career path for ESL Teacher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for EFL Teacher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for TESOL Teacher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for English Teacher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Language Instructor

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Language Teacher

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.

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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.

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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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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