By Rosana Hart

If you are thinking of teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in a non-English-speaking country, no doubt you have questions. What’s it really like to do this? Here are some of the common questions would-be teachers have, with answers.

[1] What will my students be like?

They are unlikely to be children, as whatever English the children learn is usually done within the country’s public school system. More likely, you will be teaching teenagers or adults. The adults will likely be very motivated, as they see English as a key to a better life. Some of the teenagers will have the same attitude, but some may be more casual.

[2] I only speak English. How will I communicate with the students?

Many methods of language instruction are based on using just the language the students are learning. So you will be fine. Once you get beyond the most basic levels of English, you can use English to explain things and most of the students will understand.

[3] I don’t remember much of the grammar I studied in school. Do I have to know it?

You do need to know some grammar, but you do not have to be a genius at it. This is one reason it is a good idea for you to take a TEFL class that gives you certification. Not only will it help you find work, it will also go over English grammar, from the point of view of what you will need to explain to your students.

[4] I speak fluent English, but it is my second language and I do have a slight accent. Can I still teach English as a Foreign Language?

It depends. Most language schools are understandably looking for people with native pronunciation of English. If you are looking for work in a country where there aren’t that many native English speakers who want to teach English, you are likely to be more successful. By the same token, people who are native speakers of English but have a strong regional accent may find it more difficult to get work than people who speak a more standard English. By the way, both American English and British English are acceptable.

[5] I graduated from high school but I don’t have a college degree. Can I still do this?

You may have fewer choices of positions, but you should be able to find work. Since you don’t have a formal degree, it would be a good idea for you to take one of the many TEFL courses that are available all over the world and online. Take one that provides at least 100 hours of instruction and gives you TEFL certification.

If you are traveling in foreign countries, particularly outside the US and Europe, you may be able to find work simply because you are there. The schools may be more lax in their requirements because they can talk to you on the spot, and you may also find smaller, more informal schools.

[6] I wonder if I would be good at this.

If you are friendly, outgoing, flexible, and genuinely interested in helping other people, it’s well worth a try! It also helps if you prepare your class lessons with care.

About the Author

Rosana Hart writes about Chinese language software at her website. She reviews a variety of programs for learning Chinese, and compares Fluent Mandarin, Rosetta Stone Chinese along with Rocket Chinese and Pimsleur Mandarin.

All across the globe, many individuals have seen a pressing need to learn the English language. This is due to reasons which vary for different people. There are some who want to learn the language because it is used by most onlines sites. On the other hand, there are some individuals who are interested with the celebrities of Hollywood. They want to learn how to speak English, so that they will be able to understand celebrity news. There are also some people who want to make their travel to the USA easy, while there are some who are interested with the politics of the country. However, the most well known reason would be easier communication with business clients.

There are various countries which are searching for foreign degree holders to teach English language to their students. Among these is China wherein ESL schools are located all over the mainland. If you want teach english you can apply at an ESL center in Zhenjiang. This language school is owned by an American, and it provides teaching jobs all throughout the country. You will work full time for 25 hours each week, with a monthly salary of 6,000 to 7,000RMB.

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Even if you are far from your home, you have no reason to worry about where you are going to stay. The school will provide you with a fully-furnished room. What is more, you will be offered with an air ticket allowance. If you want to teach English in China, you have to be a native speaker of the language. You have to be a resident within countries like Canada; United States; United Kingdom; New Zealand; and Australia. You also need an associate degree or bachelor’s degree for you to qualify for the position.

Other than being a native English speaker and a degree, you are required to submit the following along with your e-mailed application letter:

* a copy of your diploma
* your resume
* a clear recent photo
* a certification copy of TESOL or TEFL
* a passport copy
* your phone number
* your credentials

If you want to teach English and would like to know more regarding an opportunity to teach English in China, you can log on to www.esljob.org as well as www.esljobchina.org.

About the author

Beverly Maniago has earned her AB Mass Communication major in Journalism. She loves writing articles and web content. Being a full time writer, she produces quality articles and press releases for different clients and companies.