Teaching English in International Schools (Young Learners )

Teaching English as a First Language in International Schools(Young Learners)

Course Description

This comprehensive three-month program explores research-based methodologies and practices for teaching English as a first language to young learners in international school settings. Participants will develop skills to create engaging literacy environments, design effective lessons, and implement assessment strategies that support diverse learners.

Course Tutor

Dr. Nahla Mostafa Specialist in the International Education & Teacher-Traning 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Apply evidence-based approaches to teaching English literacy skills to young learners
2. Design developmentally appropriate learning environments that support language acquisition
3. Create and implement effective lesson plans addressing the diverse needs of international students
4. Utilize formative and summative assessment strategies to evaluate student progress
5. Integrate digital and print resources into literacy instruction
6. Adapt teaching practices to respect cultural backgrounds while developing English proficiency

Content

Module 1: Foundations of Early Literacy Development

• Theories of first language acquisition in young learners
• Developmental milestones in literacy for ages 4-9
• Cultural considerations in international settings
• Creating inclusive literacy environments
• Teaching Literature & poetry

Module 2: Core Literacy Skills

• Phonological awareness and phonics instruction
• Vocabulary development strategies
• Reading comprehension approaches
• Early writing development
• Speaking and listening skills

Module 3: Curriculum Design and Implementation

• Selecting appropriate texts and materials
• Thematic and inquiry-based literacy planning
• Differentiation strategies for mixed-ability classrooms
• Integration of literacy across subject areas

Module 4: Assessment and Evaluation

• Diagnostic assessment tools
• Formative assessment practices
• Documentation of student progress
• Communicating with parents about literacy development

Module 5: Technology and Resources

• Digital tools for literacy instruction
• Multimodal approaches to teaching and learning
• Creating and adapting materials for international contexts
• Building classroom libraries

Duration

3 months (12 weeks)

• Weekly 3-hour synchronous sessions
• 3 hours of weekly asynchronous learning activities
• 4 supervised teaching practice sessions
• Total learning hours: 120

Prerequisites

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, TESOL, or related field
• Teaching experience with young learners (preferred)
• Proficiency in English (B1-B2 level or higher)
• Access to a teaching environment with young learners for practice activities

Overall Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will:

• Receive a certificate in Teaching English as a First Language to Young Learners
• Develop a portfolio of lesson plans, assessments, and teaching materials
• Gain confidence in addressing the unique needs of international young learners
• Build a professional network of educators working in similar contexts
• Be equipped to implement research-based literacy practices in international school settings