CELTA TRAINING

Input

Seminars and workshops (‘input’) take up roughly half the contact time. On the full-time course, each morning there are usually two input sessions. On the part-time course, input sessions are on Thursdays (two sessions) and Saturdays (three sessions). These sessions are essentially practical rather than theoretical and look at ideas that you can immediately use in the classroom. The following areas are among those that will be covered:

* learner motivation, needs and expectations
* analysis of English grammar, vocabulary and phonology from the learner’s perspective
* approaches and techniques for introducing and practicing new language
* approaches and techniques for developing language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking)
* lesson and course planning
* class management and the role of the teacher
* selecting, adapting and evaluating materials and resources

Written assignments

In addition to CELTA teacher training, trainees are required to complete four short written assignments. The assignments are about 1000 words each and are spread out over the four weeks. They are very practical in nature, focusing on a trainees strengths and weaknesses; the students they teach; language systems (grammar and vocabulary) and language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

Classroom observation of experienced ESL teachers

During the course trainees observe experienced teachers in the classroom. This helps to put the skills and knowledge which trainees learn during the course into perspective and to get the feel of additional classes. These sessions include observing your peers, your trainers, as well as an off-site visit to a NY private language center.

Assessment

There is no final examination on the CELTA. The assessment is continuous (throughout the course) and integrated (all components count towards the final grade). Assessment is based on candidates' evaluation over the four weeks in the following two components:

* teaching practice
* written assignments

You are also required to maintain a portfolio of your work over the course. The course is assessed in accordance with University of Cambridge ESOL guidelines.

Individual tutorials are held to monitor and discuss progress. Candidates are also informed of their progress through feedback of teaching practice and written assignments.

The assessment for CELTA certification is externally moderated by an assessor approved by Cambridge. The assessor visits for one day during the second half of the course and looks at candidates’ portfolios and observes teaching practice.

It should be noted that the CELTA is a PASS/FAIL course. A ‘fail’ grade is awarded to candidates who do not reach the required standard in the specified criteria. Admission to and regular attendance of the course alone do not guarantee the Certificate will be awarded.

Candidates whose performance meets the specified criteria are awarded a Pass. This demonstrates a good standard of teaching has been reached. Those who demonstrate a significantly higher level of achievement in their classroom teaching skills are awarded a Pass Grade B. Those who in addition to this demonstrate a significantly higher level of achievement in relation to their lesson planning and awareness of teaching and learning processes are awarded a Pass Grade A.

It is important to note that on the basis of experience the ‘Pass’ grade is the most frequently awarded grade. A ‘Pass’ grade should not be equated to a ‘C’ grade. It does not denote mediocrity. The ‘Pass’ grade signifies that the candidate has completed the course to a satisfactory standard and is ready to teach ESL classes..

All successful participants will receive a detailed personal teaching profile provided by Teaching House, New York. This is sent together with your official University of Cambridge CELTA certificate.