This is a very general guide to Gender in English. Unlike many other languages it is fairly straightforward in English which makes it relatively easy for language learners and explaining it in your TEFL classroom. To begin with and in practical terms, English...
Comparatives in English
To compare the property or quality of two items we can use the comparative form of adjectives and adverbs. The comparative form of most monosyllable (1 syllable) and disyllable (2 syllable) adjectives and adverbs is made by adding –er to the adjective. I am big,...
The Counting Game for TEFL
The Counting Game is a simple but effective counting game ideal for young beginner level students in your TEFL classroom so they can practice numbers. It also helps keep a class quiet for a few minutes which is a nice side-effect! Running the Game Have the class...
Modals – Permission
To show degrees of permission, we can use various modal verbs. 1. Permission You cannot leave yet. You are not allowed to leave yet. You may not leave yet. You mustn't leave yet. You needn't leave yet. can is more friendly than may which is quite formal. needn't shows...
Tips on Using Blackboards & Whiteboards
Here are a few quick tips for TEFL teachers on using your blackboard or whiteboard or interactive whiteboard in class. Face the Class Don’t stand with your back to the class! Doing this is an opportunity for them to tune out and start talking. While you are writing...
TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language
TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. This acronym is commonly used in Europe and by European teachers - mainly British and Irish. In most cases TEFL is synonymous with TESOL and TESL, however there are differences at a deeper level. Essentially...
Do I Need To Know Grammar to teach English?
This question is often asked by new or potential TEFL teachers, especially since many schools in the UK and USA do not teach grammar as a matter of course and many high school graduates will not know a verb from a noun. Can you describe language? It's an...
Jargon in TEFL
Jargon is a specialized language used by people in a certain profession, job or activity. To an outsider it may seem unintelligible, but to a member of that group it is obvious and useful to explain sometimes esoteric points. Like many other groups, English teachers...
Flashcards and TEFL
Flashcards are a fantastic resource for teachers. They can not only be used with all ages and levels of students but they are very flexible and highly adaptable. This means a set of flashcards you might prepare for a beginner class of teenagers can also be used with...
SVO – Subject Verb Object
Sentences English important words is order of in the. or better: The order of words in English sentences is important. We need to get word order right in English. The arrangement makes all the difference. Get it wrong and it just ends up a mess which no one...