Chinese Speakers

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Susan T S G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Singapore is a multilingual and multi-ethnic society. We have four official languages Malay, English, Chinese (Mandarin), and Tamil, with Malay as our national language. English is used as the main medium of instruction in our education system and learning a second language is compulsory in school starting from pre-school age. Being Chinese, my second language is Mandarin. I also speak a third language called dialect especially to our parents who do not understand English or Chinese. Also Read: The Most Important Personal Qualities in the ESL...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sheneil J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Chinese does not have either of the “th” sounds (like “that” and “this”). Most other languages do not have these sounds and they are problematic for most learners of English. The difficulty is the point of articulation- the tongue has to be between the teeth, not behind them. Many people say that English speakers look like they’re sticking their tongues out all the time because of the “th” sounds. It can be difficult to get learners to do this because it violates a cultural proscription against sticking out one’s tongue. Confusion...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Foreign language experience is complexed on so many different levels, it is a window into a different culture, often a different country and even a different paradigm of thinking. There is a multitude of language experiences people can have, each with their own intricacies and uniqueness. As a native English speaker from South Africa, living in China has provided me with extraordinary foreign language experience. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Marlan S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Mandarin, the national language of the People’s Republic of China, as many would attest to is extremely challenging. One could argue...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Most researchers agree that the learner’s first language influences the pronunciation of the target language and is a significant factor in accounting for foreign accents. So-called interference or interference from the first language is likely to cause errors in aspiration, stress, and intonation in the target language. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Vesna A. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Some Chinese students tend to have difficulty with English sounds because they are deeply influenced by similar Chinese sounds. However, they are very different from each other. A particular sound which does not exist in the native...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Learning a second language can be difficult, and this is especially true when the learners L1 and their target language are completely different in structure, sound, and tones. An English as a second language student who speaks French, German, or any other European language will have an easier task than one who speaks a language that is not of European origins. One such language is Mandarin Chinese. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ashley L. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The areas that native Mandarin speakers most often run into difficulty are pronunciation, tones, tenses, and sentence structure. A Chinese speaker might...  [Read more]

William Noble Destinations Teaching Ideas I have been an online ESL teacher to Chinese students for over 13 years, mostly with primary students but also with secondary and adult students. I am also a father and have homeschooled my daughter over her primary years. Like many teachers, I’ve enjoyed teaching at this level of education as it lays the foundation in English. As it set the foundation, my teaching helped students to overcome common errors in production skills, speaking and writing. Teaching both my daughter and Chinese students at the primary level also helped me also to understand the different expectations between first language and second language students. Since English is very different from China, many Chinese...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences In this blog post, I plan to examine why English may be such a challenging language for Chinese speakers to master, namely in comparison to their European peers. For the purpose of this examination, I will focus on four main aspects, from quite glaring differences to other aspects that some may not initially consider: written language, grammar, vocabulary, and language exposure. These points are drawn from my own experience of living and teaching English in China, from learning Chinese myself and from conversations with my students. I will be focusing on those who have not had experience in learning other languages before English, as I feel this constitutes the largest proportion of Chinese learners. This by no...  [Read more]

Ahmed Taha TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas As an English teacher, who is best? Native speakers of English or non-native speakers? Given the widespread belief that native speakers make better English teachers than non-native speakers, Jennifer Jenkins writes, "we will begin by analysing why this should be true." Is it true that native speakers make better teachers by definition, or just that they have a better understanding of English as a second language? To begin, here are two researchers who argue against the notion that a native speaker is a better teacher: Teachers of English are expected to teach English as a subject, not as a broad linguistic phenomenon, but as a subject that stands...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas A multilingual class is a class where the learners speak a variety of first languages. A monolingual class is a class where all the learners speak the same first language. I have been working in international school setting for over 13 years. The classes are multilingual classes where students come from different cultures and English is the common language for them to communicate with their teachers and classmates. By contrast, English classes in local schools and universities in China are considered to be monolingual classes since the students use their first language, Chinese, to communicate. The teacher has to remind them to not use their mother tongue constantly during class...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Destinations If you dream of teaching English abroad but are concerned that jobs are limited to native English speakers only, don’t be as there are many great opportunities waiting for non-native speakers in a variety of countries worldwide. Linda Dunsmore Visa and Legal Destinations Teaching English in France often seems impossible for non-EU citizens. However, if you apply for a French language course, you will receive a student visa allowing you to teach a certain number of hours per week. If you are interested in teaching in France, read on to find out how to legally teach English in France with a student visa. Linda Dunsmore ...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas I chose this topic because I have first-hand experience with my trilingual child. She is 3 years old now, we are a couple of Romanians living in China, and my husband is a middle school English teacher. My daughter was born in China and I can both speak Chinese. ‘What language will my daughter learn first?’ Was one of the questions that haunted me and I thought it would be the greatest challenge of motherhood. Well, the reality proved me wrong – it was the easiest task and now my daughter can speak perfect English, she can understand and speak Romanian very well and she understands Chinese and can speak when she has to. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lenuta M. Please note that this...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences A language is a tool that allows us to organize our thoughts as well as to communicate. Since language is unable to be separated from our conscious thought, it can be difficult to imagine how another language can function without the use of the core elements that we employ in our own native language. Likewise, it can be difficult to comprehend the function of a language element completely foreign to us. As a teacher, it can be important to understand the peculiarities of English to understand which language elements may be more difficult for the student. Some elements that may be completely new to English learners are the number system, verb tenses, and locative language. This post was written by our TEFL...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Benefits of Teaching English Online 3. Requirements for Teaching English Online 4. How ITTT Can Help You Teach English Online Teaching English online has become a popular and convenient way for educators to reach students around the world. With the rise of e-learning platforms and technology, it is easier than ever to connect with students from different countries and cultures. ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training) offers a comprehensive online course that prepares individuals to teach English to Chinese students online. There are many benefits to teaching English online, especially to Chinese students. One of the main advantages is the flexibility it offers. As an online English teacher, you can set your own schedule and work from the comfort of your own home....  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences English is one of the most widely spoken languages and it is taught in a lot of countries. Globalization, fast economic development makes many people study English. People learn English for different reasons: business, education, life abroad, traveling, personal interest. Chinese students are not an exception. With the growing economies of China, the need for learning English increased dramatically. What challenges do Chinese students face when learning English? What challenges does the teacher meet teaching Chinese students? What teaching approach can be found? This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Darya M. Let’s talk about the most typical challenges when teaching Chinese learners and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Grammar is the rules governing the composition of clauses, phrases, and words in a natural language. Simply put, grammar is the general rule of a language. Language is logical; grammar tells us in which order we say words. It’s about how words become phrases; how words and phrases become sentences and how sentences become language. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Yang S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Some of these rules are acquired naturally in childhood while others are acquired in the learning process under the guidance of a teacher. While most of the time, people don’t know which grammatical rule they are following...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on the importance of motivation for classroom management. Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on the parent's role in their children's education. Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on how to help Chinese Native Speakers to work on their challenges in English. Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on the importance of motivation for classroom management. Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on the parent's role in their children's education. Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on how to help Chinese Native Speakers to work on their challenges in English. Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas If you think of Chinese ESL students it is safe to assume that most teachers would immediately worry about how they should teach phonics to Mandarin speakers. It is also true that the media has portrayed the Chinese accent as one of the most challenging to understand or even get rid of. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Graciela G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Usually, the first thing you will notice as an ESL teacher, speaking from experience, is the difficulty Chinese ESL students face when it comes to the pronunciation of certain English sounds. In this essay, I will address not only the most common but some of the most...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Why Choose ITTT for ESL Programs in China 3. Benefits of Studying ESL in China with ITTT 4. How to Apply for ESL Programs in China with ITTT Are you considering studying English as a Second Language (ESL) in China? Look no further than ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training) for the best ESL programs for international students. China is a popular destination for ESL learners due to its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and increasing demand for English language proficiency. ITTT offers a range of ESL programs in China that cater to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers. With ITTT, you can immerse yourself in Chinese culture while enhancing your language skills in a supportive and dynamic learning environment. ITTT is a leading provider of TEFL...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In today’s globalized world the knowledge of English is crucial to be able to communicate on an international level. Large parts of today’s communication take place in English, making it one of the most important languages in the world. Its simplicity in grammar, structure, and vocabulary makes it relatively easy to learn and thus more suitable as a world language than, for example, Chinese. In fact, English is the largest language by the number of speakers, which means that a majority of English speakers are non-native. This places great importance on language education. It must be of high quality and ideally, students should acquire the language as quickly and efficiently as possible. This post was written...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Japan is a country with a long history, deep tradition, and vibrant culture. Within this culture sits the Japanese language. At first, being a spoken language and then adopting the Chinese Writing System, Japanese has grown and changed into what it is today. If you look at all languages, most Western languages originate from a set family, such as Romance Languages (which became today’s Spanish, French, Italian, etc). But Japanese (as most Asian languages) was formed from entirely different roots. These fundamental differences mean that the method of learning these languages has a lot to do with memorization and repetitive practice of the Chinese symbols and the words they represent. Which means it is...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas After China adopted the Open Door Policy, the English language not only gained popularity but also became indispensable in international communication and trade. It was introduced in public schools as an obligatory foreign language and English teaching centers started spreading across the country. Even though Chinese people approach learning English with a great dose of enthusiasm, it poses several challenges, both linguistic and cultural. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Weronika S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Chinese language (Mandarin) is an example of Sino-Tibetan language, whereas English belongs to the Indo-European...  [Read more]

1. Introduction to Teaching English in Beijing 2. Benefits of Teaching English in Beijing 3. Requirements for Teaching English in Beijing 4. How ITTT Can Help You Teach English in Beijing Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis with a high demand for English teachers. Teaching English in Beijing can be a rewarding and enriching experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Chinese culture while making a positive impact on the local community. With its rich history, modern amenities, and diverse population, Beijing offers a unique opportunity for teachers to explore a new culture and develop professionally. Teaching English in Beijing comes with a range of benefits, both personally and professionally. Teachers have the opportunity to gain valuable...  [Read more]

1. Introduction to Teaching English in Chongqing 2. Benefits of Teaching English in Chongqing 3. Qualifications and Requirements 4. How ITTT Can Help You Teach English in Chongqing Chongqing, a bustling metropolis in southwestern China, is a popular destination for teaching English to non-native speakers. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and growing demand for English language skills, Chongqing offers a unique and rewarding experience for English teachers. Whether you are a seasoned educator or a fresh graduate looking to gain valuable teaching experience, Chongqing provides a diverse and dynamic environment to hone your skills and make a difference in the lives of students. Teaching English in Chongqing comes with a myriad of benefits. You will have the opportunity to...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Self-confidence has been seen as a major contributor to a person learning a language. As a teacher and a counselor, I agree with Jack Welch’s quote: Giving people self-confidence is by far the most important thing that I can do because then they will act. Confidence exists of three realms: who I am, what I can learn, and what I can do. These are steps that can be taken to help Chinese Business English students improve confidence in these realms. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate William N. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Self-confidence is the total of attributes which enable the use of acquiring knowledge and application of...  [Read more]

Sabrina Segal Alumni Experiences Language skills begin in the womb when a fetus's hearing first develops, they begin to listen to the language of their mother. Once the baby is born they recognize their mother tongue. Though, a baby is born with the ability to learn any language and multiple languages. When babies hear a word repeatedly their brain forms neural connections, which is a step towards their speech. The brain of a child is like a sponge. It retains so much information that by the time a child reaches 3 years of age, their brain has formed double the amount of connections that adults have. Young children learn language through simple exposure. It is possible to learn a language later on in life but the process is slower and more...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Benefits of ESL Teaching Positions in Chongqing 3. Requirements for ESL Teaching Positions 4. How ITTT Can Help Are you looking for exciting ESL teaching positions in Chongqing, China? Look no further! International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT) offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals interested in teaching English as a foreign language in Chongqing. With a booming economy and a growing demand for English language skills, Chongqing is a fantastic destination for ESL teachers to explore a new culture, gain valuable teaching experience, and make a positive impact on students' lives. Teaching English in Chongqing comes with a multitude of benefits. Firstly, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Chinese culture, try delicious local cuisine, and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Most teachers come to China to teach English with only a general idea about Chinese culture and language which they should have to deal with as soon as they arrive in China. The reason I chose this topic is that I am fluent in Chinese and have experienced Chinese culture in all its facets for over than seven years. But let’s not beat around the bush and get down to the nitty-gritty. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ruben M. Chinese people often seem to be shy or introverted, especially in front of foreigners or in the classroom. However, they are not always. Chinese society is built on 关系 Guanxi, which means “relationship(s)” and can be described as any kind of connection...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas As an English teacher, it is quite common to encounter high achievers, those who are so inspired and self-motivated in learning English, as well as low achievers, those who find themselves with no interest or goals in class. About the former group, there are always ways to encourage them in English learning, while for the latter, the teacher really has to think over and over before taking appropriate actions. I have always had to think of ways to encourage students in my teaching practice because the majority of students from my class are far from being excellent in English. The top student currently only scores 6 in IELTS. Therefore, it takes me much effort to arouse their interest first, without which the task...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares his experience of observing real-life situations when grammar and vocabulary played a crucial role in communication. Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on common problems Chinese students have when they learn English. Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences This blog post was written by our recent TEFL graduate who shares her thoughts on teaching groups and individual students. Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In this...  [Read more]