Top Mistakes New TEFL Teachers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

🚫 Introduction:

Every TEFL teacher makes mistakes — it’s part of the learning curve. But knowing what to expect can help you avoid some of the most frustrating (and embarrassing) ones. Here’s a list of the most common rookie mistakes and how to fix them.

❌ Mistake #1: Talking Too Much

New teachers often over-explain. But TEFL isn’t about lecturing — it’s about student interaction.

Fix: Use visuals, gestures, and simple instructions. Get students speaking more than you.

❌ Mistake #2: Skipping the Warm-Up

Jumping right into grammar? That’s a recipe for confusion.

Fix: Always include a short, engaging warm-up to activate student energy and recall prior knowledge.

❌ Mistake #3: Not Planning for Time

Teachers often run out of time or finish too early.

Fix: Use a structured lesson plan (like the free one above!) and always have a back-up activity.

❌ Mistake #4: Ignoring Classroom Management

Letting students talk over you or lose focus happens fast.

Fix: Set rules early. Use simple cues like “3-2-1 eyes on me” or reward systems to encourage good behavior.

❌ Mistake #5: Teaching Without Clear Objectives

Without a clear goal, students (and teachers) get lost.

Fix: Plan every class around one achievable objective and build your lesson around it.

Certification = Mistake-Proof Teaching

A good TEFL course prepares teachers for all of these scenarios — with real strategies, peer discussions, and guided practice. GoTEFL’s 120-hour certification walks you through the essentials step-by-step.

Conclusion:

No teacher is perfect on day one — but with the right prep and mindset, you can skip the stress and build confidence fast. Learn from others’ mistakes and walk into class with a solid foundation.