English as a Second Language teachers, also known as ESL teachers are responsible for teaching English to students whose native or primary language is not English. Education laws require schools to provide ELS instructions to each student whose native language is not English. English as a Second Language teachers work with students to ensure they are able to obtain both spoken and written skills in English.
Most ESL positions require the completion of a degree program. Check out the schools below which offer free information:
BA/English Language Learner Studies by Ashford University
MED in Teaching English as a Second Language by Grand Canyon University
MS – English Language Learning and Teaching by Capella University
English as a Second Language Teacher Job Responsibilities
ESL teachers must handle a class of students who may not speak the same language, which is an element that sets these teachers apart from foreign language teachers. As a result, it can be difficult for the teacher to offer instruction in a single language. ESL teachers must frequently explain things through the use of pictures, gestures and demonstrations. The goal of an ESL teacher is to have their students gain the same English proficiency as native speakers.
Teachers may use a wide range of different types of technology aids within their classrooms that can include videos, power point presentations, overhead projectors and other types of computer programs as well as audio clips. Educational software and the Internet may also be used, which makes it possible for students to be engaged in interactive learning. Computers are commonly used for teaching basic language skills. Most teachers utilize computers as well to perform administrative tasks such as communicating with other teachers and administration and recording grades. In some cases teachers may request that students submit class work through e-mail. Teachers must continually update their computer skills for use in the classroom.
Teachers use many different strategies to meet the needs of students and assist them in the learning process. They may work one-on-one with students or prepare lectures for an entire group of students. Teachers must also perform tasks both in the classroom as well as outside the classroom. During class time they may administer tests, assign homework, listen to presentations from students and manage behavior of students. Outside the classroom teachers may create lesson plans and tests as well as grade assignments completed by students or tests. Other tasks may include preparing report cards, answering questions from students and meeting with other staff members or parents. Teachers must continually monitor or evaluate the progress of students.
In addition, teachers also have obligations that must be fulfilled outside of the classroom which may include supervising study halls and homerooms, accompanying students while they are on field trips or monitoring class events and other extracurricular activities.
Most teachers work in excess of 40 hours per week, which can include duties that are performed outside of the classroom. Many teachers work a 10 month school year that includes a two month vacation in the summer. ESL teachers who teach adult students may work year around. Teachers may choose to pursue personal interests, travel, teach during summer sessions or accept other jobs during vacation time in the summer. In most states there are laws that prevent teachers who work in public schools from being terminated without due process and just cause.
The employment outlook for this field is expected to be particularly good due to increasing requirements among public schools for English as a Second Language instruction to be provided to students who do not speak English as their native or primary language. Employment opportunities will also stem from adult learners who wish to gain or improve their English speaking skills.
English as a Second Language Teacher Training and Education Requirements
Individuals who are interested in becoming ESL teachers must have a teaching license that was issued through the state where they will work. This is not the same as the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults certification. The ESL teaching certificate is provided by the state Department of Education. Minimum requirements for this certificate tend to vary from one state to another. A bachelor’s degree is usually required, although in some states candidates may be required to have a master’s degree.
Certification may be mandatory for ESL teachers in some states who will be teaching adults. In other states teachers are required to have a master’s degree in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages which is also known as the TESOL. Persons who have a degree in education but who have not attained the TESOL degree may need to supplement their existing degree with TESOL coursework. Those who have obtained a degree from outside of the United States may need to provide information to authorities for state licensure.
English as a Second Language Teacher Wages and Salary
The median wages for this occupation are $47,830 per year. Salary can vary according to employer, geographic location and level of education and experience.
English as a Second Language Teacher Certifications
In all states as well as the District of Columbia, teachers must have obtained a license in order to teach. ESL teachers must usually have additional certifications in order to teach as a English as a Second Language Teacher.
English as a Second Language Professional Associations
Professional associations for ESL teachers include the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association.
