How to become an ESL teacher

ESL and ELL (English language learner) teachers handle many responsibilities on a daily basis. They perform tasks like lesson planning, class instruction and student mentorship. ESL/ELL instructors also create and grade exams, use technology as needed and provide support for those who need extra help.

Here are a few other responsibilities an ESL instructor should be prepared to undertake:

• Evaluate language progress and development
• Use technology like language learning software, instruction videos and online grading systems
• Maintain records of attendance, progress and results

It’s also important these educators are culturally aware so they can navigate relationships with students from other countries.

Staying informed about the latest teaching techniques is also helpful for all teachers, including ESL and ELL instructors. This might mean attending conferences, obtaining certifications or pursuing additional degree programs that help teachers better serve students.

These types of teachers rely on a variety of skills to help them connect with students, recognize opportunities for improvement and empathize with those who might experience challenges during the learning process.

Teachers might rely on the following skills while teaching English as a second language:

• Patience
• Communication
• Resourcefulness
• Adaptability
• Creativity and problem-solving
• Observation
• Time management
• Technological proficiency

By leveraging these skills and cultural sensitivity, ESL teachers can create a supportive, inclusive learning environment.

An ESL teacher might find teaching opportunities in one or more of the following places:

• K-12 public schools
• Private language schools
• Community colleges and universities
• Online academic institutions

A number of these teachers work with adult students instead of children. While some ESL teachers working with adults are employed by colleges and universities, others work directly with adult education centers. In some cases, ESL teachers will also work privately with businesses to train employees.

Some terminology used during ESL instruction might be specific to a particular work environment. For example, English as an additional language (EAL) students are multilingual. They may have chosen to focus on English as a second, third or fourth language.

Depending on the state in which you live, you might also recognize abbreviations such as English language teaching (ELT) and English as an international language (EIL). Those abbreviations represent how various states describe their students whose first language is not English.

ESL teachers can work almost anywhere in the world. Institutes, language schools and universities around the world offer ESL teaching positions to instructors who can help students learn English as a second language.

Technologies in messaging and videoconferencing can also allow these teachers to work remotely. As long as you have the right software and a strong internet connection, you can connect with students who live all over the globe. You can also answer students’ questions, grade coursework and provide student support while working remotely.

Each state has different education requirements for becoming an ESL teacher. Aspiring ESL teachers typically need to follow certain steps to become eligible for hire. These can include earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree, obtaining a teaching license and completing specific ESL certifications.

At a minimum, most ESL teachers must complete a bachelor’s degree before they’re eligible for hire. In most countries, this undergraduate degree must be issued by an accredited university that offers a combination of coursework and student teaching opportunities.

Many aspiring ESL teachers will complete a bachelor’s degree in education or in a closely related field. These programs teach fundamentals that help the teachers develop students’ academic, social and cognitive skills.

After completing a bachelor’s degree, ESL teachers need to obtain a teaching license in the state where they want to work. The licensure process requires teachers to complete classes, pass exams and finish a certain number of professional experience hours.

Requirements for obtaining a teaching license vary by state. States issue their own teaching licenses. In some cases, one state’s teaching certification might be transferable to another state with similar license requirements.

ESL teachers can further improve their skills by earning an additional certification or endorsement. Some positions require this. Endorsements can provide new skills in ESL instruction and may improve earning power and expand your career potential. In many cases, teachers could be required to additionally obtain state-recognized certification or endorsements to teach ESL in an elementary or secondary school.

 Some common ESL add-on certifications or endorsements are:

• TEFL certificate: Certification designed for teachers working with students in non-native-speaking countries
• TESOL certificate: A range of certificates made for ESL teachers at various skill levels
• Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA): Comprehensive programs that provide training in ESL teaching and theory, including language analysis
• Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults (DELTA): An advanced certification for experienced ESL teachers, which includes further teacher development and assessment

Additional certification allows ESL teachers to stay up to date in their industry. Among other skills, ESL certifications teach instructors how to relate to students, implement modern teaching techniques, create exams and connect with learners who might need special attention.

Teaching ESL in a college or university environment often requires a master’s degree in education.

Master’s programs improve your knowledge of education fundamentals and reinforce skills like problem-solving, decision-making and research. Some postsecondary schools, particularly those overseas, require that ESL teachers complete a doctoral degree in education before they are hired.

Some institutions offer ESL-specific master’s degree programs, though this specialty isn’t always required by employers. More often, learners can become ESL teachers through a combination of education and professional experience.

A master’s degree helps deepen students’ proficiency in, and respect for, a particular career path. Master’s program graduates develop an appreciation for learning materials and learn new ways to apply research, communication and collaboration skills.

There are many ways to gain experience teaching English as a second language outside of ESL teaching jobs, something that is often a requirement when becoming an ESL teacher. Some people work as substitute teachers. This role allows future ESL teachers to develop skills and gain exposure to various classroom environments outside of ELS teacher jobs, whether it’s part-time or full-time work.

Some students transitioning from another career field might gain experience through a teaching certificate. Online certificate programs provide education for learners seeking specific skills. Such curricula are particularly helpful for professionals who might already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.