A terrifying room filled with hundreds of experienced teachers? Far from it. The TEFL classroom course is the first taste of practical teaching for a lot of TEFLers. To dispel the fear of the classroom course I thought I would answer some of the most commonly asked questions so that you know what to expect from the TEFL classroom course.
I’m Nervous. How Am I Going to Be Able to Teach In Front of Strangers?
Firstly, don’t be. Everyone is in the same boat. There will be lots of warmers and activities so that your group has time to get to know each other and learn about each other’s motives to TEFL. By the end of the weekend you’ll feel like you’ve known each other for ages, so when it comes to giving your first lesson in front of your fellow TEFLers, try not to think about nerves.
Does It Matter What Stage of the Online Course You’re At?
Not at all. Some people haven’t even started their online course yet and others have finished it. Some might have lots of existing knowledge of grammar, others might not. The classroom course, however, is a first for everyone.
How Many People Will Be on the Course?
No more than 20, a nice size group so that you get to talk to everyone without it being overwhelming.
Who Will Run the TEFL Course?
Each classroom TEFL course is run by one of our excellent tutors. With HEAPS of knowledge behind them, they know TEFL and the teaching world inside out. So, fear not, you’re in safe hands.
What Will I Get/Learn From the Classroom Course?
You’ll learn how to make lesson plans, different activities, warmers, how to teach different levels of English learners and how to teach English grammar (you will probably learn a lot of it for yourself too) Plus, at the beginning of the weekend you will be given your coursebook which is packed with lots of useful information about different teaching methods and tips for you to take home with you.
Is the Classroom Course Enough to Start Teaching Abroad?
The 20 hour TEFL classroom course will provide you with an internationally recognised certificate to teach abroad. No problem. BUT, you’ll have a better chance of getting the better-paid teaching jobs with better conditions if you do a combined course such as the 120-hour course. It’s like heading out to sea with a pair of arm-bands – sure, you’ll float just fine but who can keep their head above water better, you or the person in the speedboat next to you?
What Are the Requirements to Pass the Course?
Warning! Just attending the course does not mean you are guaranteed to pass the course. The tutor is not expecting you to be an amazing teacher first time round as, like many others, this is your first taste of teaching. This is just the practice stage but make sure to join in and try your hardest. For a heads up, here are the following requirements to pass the course:
• An awareness of the basic concepts of language teaching
• A native-level of English language and knowledge of English language materials
• An ability to plan lessons with and without the aid of course books, to include presentation, production and practice activities.
• An awareness of classroom management
• An ability to take advice from both tutors and peers, and the capability to improve as a result.
Now that you know the classroom course is going to be heaps of fun, are you feeling energised?
