By the end of this micro credential course, you will be able to:
1. Identify different characteristics of good teachers and general individualities of learners
2. Associate different multiple intelligences and learning styles with and their role in language acquisition and engagement
3. Identify different traditional and modern methods of teaching English as a foreign language.
4. Integrate TEFL approach into classroom practices, such as
• Learning by doing and Total Physical Response (TPR)
• Communicative Language Teaching CLT
• Content-Based and Task-Based Instruction models (CBI & TBI)
• Blended and flipped learning
• Project-based and game-based learning
• Technology-based and neurolinguistic programming
5. Promote the use of storytelling and debating to enhance language learning.
6. Promote the use of multimedia in language learning and teaching.
7. Design a lesson plan incorporating all the learned approaches and instructional models.
8. Apply top-down and bottom-up approaches to teach the four language skills.
9. Cope with classroom anxiety by using SCREAM Strategy and manage classroom using different strategies/techniques.
Advanced level of English Language
Week (1) Characteristics of a Good Teacher & Teaching Styles
This is a practical session where you will be introduced to some main characteristics of young learners which should be considered when designing a learning activity in classrooms. It will also discuss the characteristics of good teachers and different teaching styles.
Lecture objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) Identify characteristics of good teachers
2) Distinguish different teaching styles
3) Identify your preferred teaching styles and provide reasons.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Course overview - PowerPoint Presentation
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: How to become a good teacher!
* How to become a good teacher - PowerPoint Presentation
* Reading 1 Pdf "The seven characteristics of a great teacher”
* Activity 2 Discussion forum: Case Study Analysis: discuss the problem that arises from this case study and how to overcome it.
* Teaching Styles - PowerPoint Presentation
* Reading 2 Pdf "Teaching Styles”
* Reading 3 Pdf " Teaching Style a Conceptual Overview”.
* Activity 3 Discussion forum: What are the characteristics of good teachers? How can you consider these characteristics in deciding on the suitable teaching style in different contexts?
Activity 4 Discussion Forum: Discuss different classroom problems/scenarios and how you can make use of characteristics of a good teacher in solving them.
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording/forum discussions)
Assessment:
Assignment (1)
Provide examples of TEFL classroom activities in the light of the characteristics of a good teacher.
Students-led Montessori Method
Example of Learning by doing activity for Montessori kids
Week (2): Enhancing Students' Performance in the light of their Learning Styles and Multiple Intelligence Theory
This is a practical session where you will be introduced to different learning styles and multiple intelligences which should be considered when designing a learning activity in classrooms. It will also discuss use of Gardner’s Theory in class and its impact.
Session objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) Identify different learning styles and multiple intelligences
2) Provide examples of TEFL classroom activities in the light of the multiple intelligences
3) Identify different learning styles
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* MI Theory - PowerPoint Presentation
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: Key Principles of MI Theory. List the MI and discuss their role in language learning
Individuals should be encouraged to use their preferred intelligence in learning.
Learning activities should appeal to different forms of intelligence.
Assessment of learning should measure multiple forms of intelligence, not just one.
Types of Multiple Intelligences
1. Linguistic Intelligence
2. Logical-mathematical Intelligence
3. Musical intelligence
4. Spatial intelligence
5. Bodily-kinaesthetic intelligence
6. Interpersonal intelligence
7. Intrapersonal intelligence
8. Naturalist intelligence
9. Existential intelligence
10. Smell intelligence
* Using MI theory in classrooms - PowerPoint Presentation
* Reading 1 Pdf "Multiple Intelligences worksheet”.
* Activity 2 Discussion forum: Case Study Analysis Using Gardner’s Theory in Class: The Impact of Gardner’s Theory
* Using MI theory in classrooms - PowerPoint Presentation
* Reading 2 Pdf "Integrating MI in Teaching Practices”.
* Learning Styles - PowerPoint Presentation
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording)
Assessment:
Discussion Forum
A Test of Learning Styles:
Week (3): TEFL Methods: Traditional Approaches, Design & Procedures
This is a practical session where you will be introduced to Richard & Rodgers Teaching Model and some traditional teaching approaches which should be considered when designing a learning activity in classrooms highlighting their characteristics and pros and cons.
Lecture objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) Define the aspects of the teaching Method Model
2) Identify some traditional TEFL teaching approaches.
3) discuss the pros and cons of each traditional TEFL teaching approach.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Traditional Methods of Teaching English Language - PowerPoint Presentation
* Reading 1 Pdf “Traditional Methods”.
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: List any familiar traditional TEFL teaching approaches
Traditional Approaches to TEFL:
Grammar-Translation Method: This historical approach emphasizes rote memorization of grammar rules and translation of text. It has been criticized for its limited focus on communication. (Richards & Rodgers, 2014).
Direct Method: The Direct Method emphasizes teaching English through immersion, avoiding the use of the students' native language. It concentrates on oral communication but may lack structured content (Richards & Rodgers, 2014).
Audio-Lingual Method: This approach relies on repetition and drills to reinforce language patterns, with a primary focus on accuracy over fluency (Richards & Rodgers, 2014).
* Sample activity on Audio-Lingual Method
* Richards & Rodgers Applications on Traditional Methods of Teaching English Language - PowerPoint Presentation
* Activity 2 Discussion forum: highlighting pros and cons of each traditional method.
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording/forum discussions)
Assessment:
Week (4): TEFL Methods: Modern Approaches, Design & Procedures
This is a practical session where you will revise Richard & Rodgers Teaching Model and you will be introduced to some modern teaching approaches and their practical which should be considered when designing a learning activity in classrooms highlighting their characteristics and pros and cons.
Session objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) Revise the aspects of modern teaching Method Model
2) Identify some modern TEFL teaching approaches.
3) discuss the pros and cons of each modern TEFL teaching approach.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Modern Methods of Teaching English Language - PowerPoint Presentation
* Reading 1 Pdf "A Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Traditional and Modern Teaching Methods”.
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: What are some of the modern TEFL teaching approaches? List them in the forum discussion.
Modern Approaches to TEFL:
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): CLT prioritizes real-life communication, fostering fluency over accuracy. It encourages interaction in English through activities like role-plays and group discussions (Richards & Rodgers, 2014).
Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT): TBLT focuses on using language to complete specific tasks, promoting practical language acquisition and application (Willis & Willis, 2007).
Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL): This approach combines language learning with content subjects, allowing students to acquire language skills while studying other subjects in English (Coyle, Hood, & Marsh, 2010).
Flipped Classroom: In a flipped classroom, students study course materials at home and engage in active learning during class. It encourages student-centered learning and interaction (Bergmann & Sams, 2012).
Blended learning: It combines traditional classroom teaching with online resources where students access digital materials and engage in online discussions and activities, complementing face-to-face instruction.
Project-Based Learning (PBL): PBL engages students in projects related to real-world issues, promoting critical thinking and language use (Thomas, 2000).
Global Virtual Collaboration: Collaborative online projects connecting students from different countries provide opportunities for language practice and cultural exchange.
Game-Based Learning: Educational games and gamified activities make language learning enjoyable and interactive. Platforms like Kahoot! and Quizlet offer language learning games.
Technology-Enhanced Learning: Incorporating technology, including language learning apps, e-books, and online resources, offers interactive and multimedia-rich resources for English language learners (Stockwell, 2015).
Reflective Teaching: Teachers incorporate reflection and self-assessment into the learning process, allowing students to monitor their progress and set goals.
* Richards & Rodgers Applications on Modern Methods of Teaching English Language - PowerPoint Presentation
* Activity 2 Discussion Forum: Discuss the benefits of each modern approach
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording/forum discussions)
Assessment:
Week (5): Designing TEFL storytelling activities based on modern approaches.
This is a practical session where you will practice the act of storytelling in TEFL classrooms, and you will be introduced to the steps of getting TEFL storytelling into your class and compiling your own story.
Session objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) identify the features of TEFL storytelling activities
2) compile and design a story following the discussed steps.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Activity 1 Discussion forum “What are the significance and benefits of digital storytelling in TEFL classrooms?
Storytelling enhances language skills, creativity, and cultural understanding.
It can be adapted for different TEFL methods; thus, you can address various language learning goals and engage students in diverse ways, catering to their needs and preferences. In such activity, students create and share stories in English in the light of the modern methods of TEFL.
* Storytelling Elements - PowerPoint Presentation
Types of multimedia:
* Enhancing Digital Storytelling - PowerPoint Presentation
Digital Tools and Software
The Power of Visual Storytelling
* Reading 1 Pdf "Storytelling Method”.
* Designing storytelling activities – PowerPoint Presentation
* Application on designing storytelling activities
* Activity 2 Discussion forum “How to use multimedia in teaching digital storytelling?”
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording/forum discussions)
Assessment:
Quiz (5) Digital Storytelling Elements
Week (6): Designing TEFL debate activities based on modern approaches.
This is a practical session where you will practice the act of debating in TEFL classrooms, and you will be introduced to the steps of getting TEFL debate into your class and encouraging students to choose debate topics based on their preferences and current events.
Session Objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) identify the features of TEFL debate activities
2) compile and design a debate following the discussed steps.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: What are the significance and benefits of debates in TEFL classrooms?
* Elements of Designing TEFL Debates Based on Modern Approaches - PowerPoint Presentation
Adapting debates for different TEFL methods allows you to address language learning objectives while promoting critical thinking, effective communication, and student engagement. It also makes the learning experience more diverse and appealing to different types of learners. A Language Café is a versatile and interactive activity that encourages language practice in a casual, social setting.
* How to design an EFL debate material?
* Designing debate café activities – PowerPoint Presentation
* Sample debate with Opposition vs. Proposition
* Activity 2 Discussion forum: How to use multimedia in designing debates?
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording/forum discussions)
Assessment:
Week (7): Lesson Planning for TEFL Classrooms
A lesson plan is è a teacher's detailed description of the course of instruction, or 'learning trajectory' for a lesson.
Main objective is è to guide class learning.
Details are è vary depending on the preference of the teacher, subject being covered, and the needs of the students.
Session Objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) identify the importance of writing lesson plans.
2) Evaluate SMART objectives.
3) Identify different parts of a lesson plan.
4) compile and design a lesson plan following the discussed format.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: Why is it necessary to write lesson plans? Discuss the benefits.
* Introduction Lesson Planning for the EFL and ESL Classroom- PowerPoint Presentation
Basic Concepts
How to brainstorm and mind map themes (generating ideas for lessons)!
* Activity 2 Discussion forum: How to write SMART objectives!
* SMART Objectives EFL and ESL Classroom - PowerPoint Presentation
Bloom’s Taxonomy
In this lesson I will teach the students to pronounce /s/ and /z/ correctly.
Lesson Plan Format- PowerPoint Presentation
PPP or ESA: the core of the lesson plan
Sample Lesson
* Sample of Lesson Plan Format for the EFL and ESL Classroom – Pdf
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording)
Assessment:
Assignment (7)
How to brainstorm and mind map themes (generating ideas for lessons)!
Week (8): Integrating the Four Language Skills
Session Objectives:
By the end of this session participants will be able to:
1) identify the method of integrating the four skills in lesson plans.
2) design a lesson plan which integrates the four skills.
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: Why is it necessary to integrate the four skills in one activity
* Integrating the four skills in one lesson plan - PowerPoint Presentation
Tips on Choosing Activities
Considerations for Teaching Listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Bottom-Up and Top-Down Approaches to Teaching Four Skills
Seven principles for designing listening activities.
Seven principles for teaching speaking
Examples of effective listening and speaking activities
Activities Before (Warm-Up Stage)
Activities During (Presentation Stage)
Activities After (Practice and Application Stages)
* Sample of Integrating the four skills in one lesson plan - PowerPoint Presentation
* Models and graphic organizers to integrate the four skills in one TEFL activity
Integrating the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) in a TEFL activity is a comprehensive way to practice English. Here are examples, models, and graphic organizers for such activities:
Activity: Creating a Travel Blog Entry
Objective: Students will practice all four language skills by creating a travel blog entry about a recent trip.
Listening (Preparation Phase):
Listening Model: Play an audio or video recording of a travel blog entry from a native speaker.
Listening Activity: After listening, ask students to note down keywords, phrases, and interesting details from the recording.
Reading (Research Phase):
Reading Model: Provide a sample travel blog entry in written form.
Reading Activity: Ask students to read the sample blog entry and analyze its structure, language, and content. Provide travel brochures or websites for students to gather information about a destination they've visited.
Speaking (Presentation Phase):
Speaking Model: Present a model travel blog entry orally to the class.
Speaking Activity: In pairs or small groups, have students discuss and present the information they've gathered. Encourage them to use the structure and language features from the sample entry.
Writing (Blog Entry Phase):
Writing Model: Show a graphic organizer (see below) as a model for organizing their blog entry.
Writing Activity: Instruct students to write their travel blog entry. Provide a graphic organizer to help them structure their writing. The organizer might include sections for the introduction, destination details, experiences, and a conclusion.
Graphic Organizer Model: Travel Blog Entry
Introduction
Hook: A memorable opening sentence to grab the reader's attention.
Destination: Mention the place you visited and its significance.
Destination Details
Location: Describe where it is located.
Attractions: Highlight the key attractions.
Culture: Discuss the local culture and traditions.
Experiences
Activities: Describe what you did and what activities you enjoyed.
Food: Share your culinary experiences.
People: Talk about the people you met and their stories.
Conclusion
Summary: Sum up your trip and what made it special.
Recommendation: Offer recommendations or tips for future travelers.
With this activity, students practice listening to a model, reading samples, speaking to peers, and writing their own travel blog entry. The graphic organizer serves as a visual aid to guide their writing. This holistic approach incorporates all four language skills effectively.
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording)
Assessment:
Design a lesson plan for one activity integrating the four language skills in the light of bottom-up and top-down approaches.
Week (9): Classroom Management
Pre-stage of delivery
Forum discussion
During-stage of delivery (instructor’s video recording)
Content:
* Activity 1 Discussion forum: What makes you scream as a language teacher/instructor
* SCREAM Management - PowerPoint Presentation
Cope with classroom anxiety via SCREAM Strategy
* Classroom Management - PowerPoint Presentation
* Activity 3 Discussion forum: List some of classroom management styles.
Post-stage of delivery (students’ video recording)
Assessment:
Week (10): Classroom Demonstration
Trainees’ presentation of the designed lesson plan