Do you have a passion for helping others? Do you enjoy working with children or young adults? If so, and if you are also interested in teaching the English language, then a career as an English language learner (ELL) teacher may be right up your alley.
What is an ELL teacher? Specifically, ELL teachers and ELL instructors play an important role in providing primary- and secondary-school students with the education they need to confidently speak and write in the English language. Typically, these students come from non-English-speaking homes and need assistance learning the nuances of the language so they can reach their full potential.
Read on to learn more about the role of an ELL teacher and how to go about becoming one.
ESL, ELT, and ELL: Understanding Key Language Learning Terms
The terminology used in language learning and teaching continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse needs of learners. “ESL” (English as a second language) is a term that has fallen out of common use because it suggests English is always a learner’s second language. Many students are multilingual, with some fluent in multiple languages, including English. ESL traditionally focuses on learners pursuing English as an additional language without necessarily seeking multilingual fluency.
“ELT” (English language training or English language teacher) has different meanings depending on the context. Within the Department of Homeland Security, ELT refers to accredited English language proficiency programs, which must meet specific standards under federal guidelines. Alternatively, ELT can refer to an English language teacher, typically working in higher education. While some ELTs may lack certifications such as TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), they play an essential role in guiding students through their language learning journey.
“ELL” (English Language Learners) describes students who speak a language other than English at home and benefit from additional support to achieve English proficiency. This group includes a wide range of learners, from international students to Generation 1.5 learners—U.S.-born individuals who primarily speak another language, such as Spanish, in their homes.
What is ELL and What Skills are Needed?
So, what is ELL and what is an ELL teacher? ELL stands for English language learners. Those who teach English to non-native speakers need to possess some very specific skills to perform their jobs well. In addition to these essential skills, many English language teachers (ELTs) hold specialized degrees and have valuable experience teaching in international settings, enhancing their ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds.
Communication Skills
It is likely not a surprise that ELL teachers need to have strong communication skills. This includes both written and verbal communication skills. This is because ELL teachers are constantly in contact with students who do not speak English as a native language and must be able to effectively communicate despite potential language barriers.
In addition to strong verbal communication skills, ELL teachers also need to be able to communicate effectively using the written word. This is especially true when it comes to writing reports and recommendations to assess student progress, as well as communicating with multilingual families in their home languages.
Cultural Sensitivity
ELL teachers frequently work with students from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds, so having a strong sense of cultural sensitivity is also an important aspect of this job. ELL teachers must go out of their way to ensure that all students feel safe and that their unique backgrounds are celebrated in the classroom. As such, ELL teachers must also be careful to avoid accidentally offending students or their families while creating a welcoming learning environment for all.
Patience and Adaptability
Working with non-native English speakers also requires a great deal of patience. ELL teachers need to be able to meet learners where they are, adapting to their individual needs and producing different ways to cater to their learning styles. The most successful ELL teachers tend to be those adaptable and resourceful. These teachers will have the flexibility and creative problem-solving abilities needed to serve non-native speakers in all capacities.
The Demand for ELL Teachers
In the United States, ELL and ESL teachers play a crucial role in supporting non-native speakers. Pursuing a career as an ELL teacher can be a rewarding path, especially for those passionate about helping students overcome language barriers.
Diversity in Schools and Communities
We are witnessing increasing diversity in schools and communities nationwide, particularly in areas with significant refugee and immigrant populations who do not speak English as their first language. In these communities, there are opportunities for skilled ELL, ESL, and ELT instructors. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, some U.S. schools offering ESL/ELL programs face challenges in finding qualified staff to fill open teaching positions.
Globalization and Need for English Proficiency
As our society becomes more interconnected, the ability to speak and write English proficiently is highly valued. People from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds are striving to learn English to enhance their communication skills and integrate more effectively into diverse societies. This underscores the importance of ELL, ESL, and ELT professionals in today’s world.
Why Choose a Career in ELL Teaching
Is a career in ELL teaching right for you? Consider just a few of the most compelling reasons to get into this field.
Opportunity to Make a Difference
As an ELL teacher, you can enjoy knowing that you are making a difference each day that you show up to do your job. Whether you work with young children or adults, you can rest assured that you are helping your students achieve their goal of learning to read and write English proficiently. This can make it possible for them to pursue their life goals and dreams more readily.
High Job Satisfaction
In general, ELL teachers enjoy a high level of job satisfaction, so this is also something to consider. Per Indeed data, ELL teachers rate their jobs an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars when taking into consideration such factors as work/life balance, compensation/benefits, job security, advancement, and culture.
ELL Career Challenges
Of course, no job comes without some potential challenges or drawbacks. Consider some of the most common challenges ELL teachers face on the job and factor these into your decision regarding whether this is the right career for you.
Language Barriers
Each day as an ELL teacher, you will be working with students who do not speak English as a native language. As a result, you are bound to run into some language barriers not only with your students, but with their parents/guardians as well. This can be frustrating for some, but it is a major part of the job. Many ELL teachers find that they need to use translator tools or even learn how to speak/write in other languages to do their jobs well. ELT professionals often encounter similar challenges in various teaching contexts.
Cultural Differences
ELL teachers must also be prepared to encounter some cultural differences, especially when working with students from different countries and backgrounds. Having a strong sense of cultural awareness can help avoid conflict and make sure that everybody feels welcome in the classroom. This cultural awareness is crucial in both ELL and ELT environments.
Adapting Teaching Styles
No two non-native English learners will have the exact same needs or learning style, so ELL teachers constantly face the challenge of adapting and changing their teaching styles to suit their students’ unique needs. This can be one of the most difficult parts of the job, but it is a skill that all ELT and ELL teachers build over time.
ELL Teaching Resources and Tools
ELL teachers must rely on a wide range of resources and tools to help them do their jobs well and support their students. This includes not just traditional books and textbooks, but online platforms and even YouTube channels for additional support.
Books and Textbooks
Most ELL teachers will be assigned specific books or textbooks to use in their classrooms. These are typically decided by the school and the administrators who determine the curriculum for ELL classes. However, teachers may have some creative freedom here as well. ELT professionals also often use a variety of textbooks and educational resources to enhance their teaching.
Online platforms, such as translator tools and other ELL apps, can also have a place in the classroom. The exact tools and apps that are appropriate will ultimately depend on the age of the students, as well as access to different technologies.
Some of the most popular ESL, ELL, and ELT apps among teachers include:
- Duolingo
- Kahoot!
- Grammar Up
- Google Translate
YouTube Channels for Learning English
In addition to apps and other software, many ELL teachers also find that YouTube channels are helpful for some English learners. There are a number of popular YouTube channels that cater to non-native speakers of all ages, including:
- EnglishClub
- JamesESL
- English with Lucy
Preparing for a Career in ELL Teaching
Does working as an ELL teacher sound like a promising career path for you? You may be wondering what steps you need to take to get started in this exciting career.
Required Education and Certifications
Generally, ELL teachers have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as English or education. In addition to this, it may also be necessary to obtain a teaching license/certification in the state where you wish to teach. This will be required if your undergraduate degree program did not include certification. ELT professionals also typically hold degrees in education, linguistics, or a related field and may need additional certifications depending on the teaching context.
Getting licensed to teach may require you to pass an exam and possibly gain a certain number of hours of experience in the classroom.
How to Gain Experience as an ELL Teacher
Gaining experience in the classroom is the best way to improve your knowledge and confidence in teaching ELL. Some graduate certificate programs may include hands-on instructional hours as part of the curriculum. That said, even working as a substitute ELL teacher or serving as an ELL teaching assistant could be great ways to gain valuable experience before you pursue your first job as a standalone ELL teacher. Similar approaches are valuable for those pursuing careers in ELT.
Ready to Start Your Educational Journey?
Teaching English to somebody who is not a native speaker comes with some unique challenges, regardless of whether you are teaching a child or an adult learner. At the end of the day, this line of work can be very rewarding for those who enjoy helping others and making a difference in the lives of young people.
If you are interested in learning more about teaching English to non-native speakers, Post University is here to help. We offer a Graduate Certificate in Teaching English Language Learners (TELL) that can help you investigate methods for effective instruction and learn about strategies in ESL and ELT education. Learn more about this program today by getting in touch or get started with your online application for enrollment.
Thank you for reading! The views and information provided in this post do not reflect Post University programs and/or outcomes directly. If you are interested in learning more about our programs, you can find a complete list of our programs on our website or reach out directly!
Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s programs and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.