Welcome

BTR-TESOL ("Better TESOL") is designed to provide basic training ("the least you should know") and resource connections ("where to go to learn more") for people who....

1. Are either (a) on the verge of teaching ESL/EFL or (b) already practicing TESOL in one way or another (as tutors, conversation partners, teachers, etc.) and…

2. Have no academic background or professional preparation in TESOL, but want such guidance, even though they are not currently in a position (due to finances, timing, location) to get a full-scale TESOL degree or certificate.

Does that sound like you? Well, if so, then this program may be just what you need!

How this book is structured

The site contains nearly 50 units, organized in the 10 sections listed in the table of contents. The units cover a broad range of teacher-preparation topics, divided into 10 major areas:

1. Introduction: Basic Concepts
2. Designing Language-teaching Programs, Courses, and Lessons
3. Developing Fundamental Teaching Skills
4. Understanding Key Principles Behind Successful Language Teaching
5. Knowing Your Students: Learner Types, Styles, and Strategies
6. Developing Language Skills
7. Teaching English Language Components
8. Making Language Teaching and Learning Enjoyable and Memorable
9. Testing English Language Skills
10. Choosing, Creating, and Adapting Language Teaching Materials

Each unit contains the following elements:

• Introductory scenario
• Objectives of the unit
• Explanation of "the least you should know" about this topic
• Comprehension and reflection questions
• Video example related to this topic
• Reflection and responses
• "Where to go to learn more" about this topic
  • Connections to other units in this program
  • Online and electronic resources
  • Print and paper-based resources