Do you need to be bilingual to teach English?
No, being bilingual is not a requirement to teach English abroad or online. When considering a career in TESOL, it is important to understand that the primary requirement is a strong command of the English language. While knowing the local language of the country where you intend to teach can be advantageous, it is not typically a necessity from an employer's perspective. The focus is on your ability to effectively teach English, creating an immersive learning environment for your students. Fluency in English, rather than bilingualism, is the key qualification for teaching English as a second language.
Table of Contents
What will I need to teach English?
How will I teach English if I don't speak the local language?
What are the benefits of learning the local language?
How to learn another language while teaching English abroad
What will I need to teach English?
To teach English, whether abroad or online, several key requirements are commonly expected. Firstly, a thorough understanding of the English language is essential. This includes strong skills in both spoken and written English. Secondly, obtaining a TESOL certificate from a reputable course provider is often a fundamental requirement. Additionally, depending on the country and employer, you may also need a university degree, some prior teaching experience, or to be a native English speaker. It is important to note that proficiency in a second language is usually not required for English teaching positions, as the focus is primarily on your English language abilities.
Also read: How do I become a great ESL teacher?
How will I teach English if I don't speak the local language?
Teaching English without speaking the local language is feasible and often effective, as it embraces the immersion method for language learning. As an ESL teacher, your primary role is to create an immersive English environment for your students. This approach encourages students to practice and improve their English skills by constant exposure rather than relying on their native language. While it may seem daunting at first, TESOL training provides various strategies and techniques to effectively teach English in this manner. These techniques are designed to facilitate learning and communication in English only, helping students to develop their language skills in a practical, immersive setting, even without the teacher's proficiency in the local language.
Check out our range of TESOL courses that can be taken online from anywhere in the world.
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What are the benefits of learning the local language?
While it is not usually necessary to learn the local language for teaching English abroad, it can offer multiple benefits. Many TESOL-certified teachers utilize their overseas experiences to learn another language, as immersion benefits teachers just as it does students. If you plan to follow this path, finding a job slightly off the beaten track can be beneficial. Schools often include free language lessons in their contracts, and there will be numerous locals willing to participate in a language exchange.
Learning the local language can enhance your teaching as you will experience the same learning process as your students. This experience can deepen your empathy and understanding of your students' challenges. Furthermore, knowing the local language will enable you to engage more with the community, potentially leading to more unique experiences. Moreover, foreign language skills look impressive on your CV/resume, appealing to future employers regardless of your long-term plans.
Also read: Which TESOL certificate to get?
How to learn another language while teaching English abroad
Learning a new language while teaching English abroad involves immersing yourself in the local culture and language. Start by embracing daily interactions in the local language, such as reading restaurant menus and train schedules, and communicating with native speakers. Basic phrases like please and thank you are a good starting point, and everyday life will naturally facilitate your language learning.
For more structured learning, consider taking lessons, which might be offered by your employer, or enroll in local language schools or hire private tutors. Beyond formal education, immerse yourself in the local culture by joining clubs or groups based on your interests, like art, drama, or cooking, or participate in sports. Engaging with the local community rather than relying solely on the expat community will accelerate your language skills. While not mandatory for teaching English, learning the local language can significantly enhance your cultural understanding and enrich your experience abroad.
Also read: Can I learn a foreign language while teaching English abroad?
