How should I prepare for a TESOL course?
Preparing for a TESOL course may involve more than just enthusiasm and commitment; a few practical steps can significantly ease the process. First, familiarize yourself with the basics of English grammar. A solid understanding of these fundamentals will provide a strong foundation for the course material. Next, read up on different teaching methodologies to get a sense of various instructional approaches. Engaging in light preparatory reading about ESL teaching can also provide valuable insights. Finally, ensure you have a comfortable study environment and all the necessary materials and resources at your disposal. By taking these steps, you are setting yourself up for a smoother and more effective learning experience in your TESOL course.
Table of Contents
Should I plan a schedule for my TESOL studies?
Should I review English grammar rules before my TESOL course?
Will I get any pre-TESOL course materials?
Will I need any equipment for my TESOL course?
Should I practice public speaking before my TESOL course?
Should I join online TESOL groups?
Should I plan a schedule for my TESOL studies?
With our online TESOL courses you get to choose your own amount of study hours and when you want to do them. In this scenario it is a good idea to set yourself a study schedule so you can complete the course in a time frame that suits your future plans. By setting out a calendar with realistic weekly goals you can really help to keep your studies on track. After all, a TESOL course is a real investment in your future, so it would be a shame to let it slip away because of poor organization or a lack of commitment.
If you have chosen to embark on an in-class TESOL course, your study schedule will be largely set for you throughout the four week period of training. However, you will still need to be prepared to spend evenings and/or weekends putting in extra study to ensure you get the results you deserve. All you have to do is remember that it is only a one-month commitment and at the end of it you will be more than ready to start your new ESL teaching career.
Should I review English grammar rules before my TESOL course?
Just by mentioning English grammar you can cause panic among classes of TESOL course trainees. Many native English speakers are aware of the main grammar rules but trying to explain them to others in a classroom environment can be a daunting prospect. However, English grammar is one of the cornerstones of ESL teaching and you will need to have a firm grasp of the subject by the time you start your first teaching job. The good news is that a fair proportion of any quality TESOL training course should be focused on English grammar and how to teach it in the classroom. Having said that, by dedicating a few hours to learning the basics of English grammar in advance you could give yourself a very handy headstart on the course.
Will I get any pre-TESOL course materials?
Many TESOL courses come with some form of pre-course material that you can take a look at to give yourself some confidence in what you will be learning during the course. If the course you have chosen does not provide any pre-course materials or you want some further insight into the ESL teaching world, take a look online as you will find a wide variety of resources available on every major topic. Whether you read a few articles or blogs, watch some YouTube videos or listen to a podcast, you should find that it will help to get you in the right frame of mind for studying for your TESOL certification.
Will I need any equipment for my TESOL course?
For most TESOL courses, the basic equipment required to begin is fairly minimal - typically a pen and a notebook are sufficient. However, course requirements can vary, so it is advisable to confirm with your course provider beforehand. For in-class TESOL courses, additional items such as a laptop, stationery supplies, or specific classroom aids may be recommended or required. In the case of online TESOL courses, ensure you have a reliable computer and internet connection, as well as any software specified by the course provider. It is also beneficial to have a quiet and comfortable study space. Checking with your course provider will give you a clear list of any specific equipment or materials needed to effectively participate in and complete your TESOL course.
Should I practice public speaking before my TESOL course?
Practicing public speaking before starting a TESOL course can be highly beneficial, especially as speaking confidently in front of a class is a critical aspect of teaching. For many trainees, the prospect of addressing a group of students can be daunting. While TESOL courses often cover public speaking skills and aim to build your confidence in this area, getting a head start can be advantageous. Practicing in front of friends, family, or work colleagues can be an effective way to begin. Focus on skills such as voice projection, making eye contact, and presenting information clearly. Engaging in such practice helps mitigate initial nervousness and builds a foundation of confidence that will be further developed during your TESOL training.
Should I join online TESOL groups?
If you have done any pre-course research online you will probably have come across a few TESOL groups where people share their own course experiences and provide advice for new trainees. These groups can also be a good source of information and reviews on different courses if you have yet to decide which one is right for you. They might also offer some good insight into job hunting and where in the world you will find the best places to teach.
Finally, just relax!
One final bit of advice is to not become overwhelmed by all the information and contradictory stories you might come across when searching online. Try to stay calm and enjoy the prospect of the new life that your TESOL course can offer you. Although a TESOL course is a serious qualification that requires plenty of hard work and commitment, it should also be an enjoyable experience that will stay with you for a long time to come. If you tackle it with a positive attitude and a relaxed frame of mind you should find that you are able to complete it with few problems.
