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TEFL Unlocked Podcast
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All Episodes - TEFL Unlocked
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Read the room: Teaching mistakes you don’t want to repeat
Episode 28
In this episode, Luan shares a personal experience of one of her worst English lessons, focusing on the challenges faced while teaching an A2-level adult class about ecosystems. Luan concludes by reassuring teachers that it's okay to have bad lessons, as they provide valuable learning opportunities.
Lessons beyond the classroom: Teaching, travel & living without regrets
Episode 27
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead share valuable life lessons learned from their teaching experiences. They discuss the importance of understanding language, building rapport with students, and developing organizational skills.
Navigating interaction in online vs. face-to-face teaching
Episode 26
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the evolution of online teaching and its growing prominence compared to face-to-face. They explore the key differences, including interaction styles, technology requirements, classroom environments, feedback mechanisms, and the flexibility on offer.
Teaching as a journey: How continuous learning transformed Nancy’s approach to ESL
Episode 25
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead interview Nancy, an experienced online English teacher from Johannesburg, South Africa. Nancy shares her journey from accounting to teaching, detailing her daily routine, payment structures, and her challenges in the online teaching landscape.
Why do adults learn English? The answer will change your teaching!
Episode 24
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of adult learners' motivations for attending English classes. They discuss the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, highlighting how personal goals and external pressures shape students' experiences.
Insights from a TEFL recruitment expert
Episode 23
Hosts Luan and Mairead welcome Henry, an international recruitment consultant at The TEFL Academy, to discuss the landscape of teaching jobs. They explore the most in-demand countries, the importance of having an accredited TEFL certificate, and challenges faced by applicants when job hunting.
Engaging students through effective speaking tasks
Episode 22
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the intricacies of planning and executing speaking tasks in the classroom. They emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate topics, interaction patterns, and scaffolding to support students.
Overcoming writing challenges in the classroom
Episode 21
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of teaching writing in the classroom. They discuss common misconceptions about writing, the challenges students face, and effective strategies to make writing lessons more engaging and less intimidating.
Am I qualified to teach English? The truth about TEFL
Episode 20
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead address common concerns aspiring English teachers face when considering a TEFL certification. They explore the normalcy of self-doubt, the role of language skills, and the misconception that a degree in English or prior teaching experience is required.
How to make listening lessons fun & effective!
Episode 19
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss effective strategies for teaching listening skills to students. They share personal experiences of their early teaching challenges and emphasize the importance of preparation, context, and vocabulary pre-teaching in creating successful listening lessons.
From confusion to comprehension: Teaching ESL listening skills
Episode 18
You're not alone if your students struggle to understand fast speech, accents, or connected words! In our latest podcast, Luan & Mairead break down why listening is so tricky for ESL learners—and share practical tips to help them improve.
Accuracy vs. fluency: Get the balance right in your lessons!
Episode 17
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the differences between controlled practice and freer practice. They explore how controlled practice focuses on accuracy and structured activities, while freer practice encourages students to use language more naturally and fluently.
The art of eliciting: Engaging students in learning
Episode 16
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead explore effective strategies for teaching vocabulary in the language classroom. They also discuss the importance of eliciting words from students rather than providing direct definitions
The power of words: Teaching vocabulary with impact
Episode 15
In this episode, Luan and Mairead delve into the significance of vocabulary in language learning. They discuss the concept of lexis, the importance of understanding word classes, and the benefits of teaching collocations and dependent prepositions.
Mastering classroom control: Tips for every TEFL teacher
Episode 14
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luann and Mairead discuss common classroom management challenges English teachers face. They explore issues such as students who talk excessively, those who are silent during speaking tasks, distractions from mobile phones, overly eager and argumentative students.
Demonstrate, simplify, confirm: the keys to better teaching
Episode 13
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the importance of giving clear instructions in teaching. They explore strategies for simplifying language, the timing and delivery of instructions, the significance of demonstrating tasks, and the necessity of checking understanding through targeted questions.
Reflecting on 2024 and looking forward to 2025
Episode 12
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead reflect on the significant changes in the TEFL landscape throughout 2024, discussing key trends such as the shift towards student-centered learning, the rise of online teaching, and the importance of teacher well-being.
Unlocking pronunciation: Helping ESL students speak with confidence
Episode 11
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the common pronunciation challenges ESL students face and effective strategies for teachers to address these issues. The conversation emphasizes the need for teachers to maintain a natural speaking style and to help students feel comfortable.
Engaging young learners: The Importance of fun
Episode 10
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss effective strategies for engaging young learners in the classroom. They emphasize the importance of fun, establishing boundaries, using visuals, and incorporating movement and play into lessons.
Mastering grammar teaching: The PPP approach
Episode 09
In this episode, Luan and Mairead explore the intricacies of teaching grammar, focusing on the PPP lesson plan structure. They discuss the importance of the presentation stage, including the MFP (meaning, form, phonology) approach, and the use of concept checking questions and timelines to enhance understanding.
Beyond vocabulary: Why grammar is your best friend in learning
Episode 08
In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities and importance of grammar in teaching English as a second language (ESL). They explore the fears that new teachers face when teaching grammar, the significance of understanding word classes, and the intricacies of verbs and tenses.
Common TEFL questions and concerns: Luan and Mairead tackle them
Episode 07
Curious about TEFL but have some burning concerns holding you back? In this episode, Luan and Mairead address those questions. They cover topics such as the requirements for teaching English abroad, who can take a TEFL course, speaking another language, and the prospects with a TEFL certificate.
7 benefits of being an EFL teacher & some not-so-obvious perks
Episode 06
In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and explore why it’s more than just a job - it’s a gateway to global adventures, personal growth, and life-changing experiences!
Classroom chaos: delightful disasters that make teaching unforgettable
Episode 05
In this episode, we dive into the unpredictable and laugh-out-loud moments that every teacher knows too well. From surprise questions to tech breakdowns and lesson plans gone haywire, these classroom “oops” stories remind us of the humor and resilience that come with the teaching life.
Educate, engage, empower: Mastering classroom communication
Episode 04
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most essential aspects of effective teaching—communication. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, mastering the art of fostering open dialogue in the class.
How to navigate your first lesson: What do to before, during & after
Episode 03
In this episode, we break down the entire experience of teaching your very first lesson! From the nerves and excitement before you step into the classroom, to navigating the lesson in real time, and reflecting on what went well (or didn’t) afterward.
How to create a positive learning environment & build rapport with your students
Episode 02
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss the essential elements of creating a positive learning environment for students. They share personal experiences from their first classes, emphasising the importance of focusing on students rather than the teacher.
Career paths in TEFL: Luan and Mairead share their experiences
Episode 01
Luan and Mairead have a combined 35 years of experience in the world of TEFL. They discuss their backgrounds and the various career options available in TEFL. They talk about their own experiences as teachers, teacher trainers, examiners, and materials developers.
Accreditation & Quality Assurance
The TEFL Academy was the world’s first TEFL course provider to receive official recognition from government regulated awarding bodies in both the USA and UK. This means when you graduate you’ll hold a globally recognised Level 3 (120hr) Certificate or Level 5 (168hr) Diploma, meaning you can find work anywhere and apply for jobs immediately.
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