Ideas, tips, and tools for language teachers around the world.

Vinod Aithal

Vinod is a freelance writer and editor, currently based in London, UK. He taught English for four years in South Korea, Italy, and the UK before working for EF for six years, creating thousands of hours of material for EF’s digital learning platforms.

Vinod holds a masters degree in organisational psychology and currently divides his time between studying to be a lawyer, working as a community legal adviser, writing, and spending time with his children. He is currently learning Mandarin Chinese and German.

All articles from Vinod Aithal

Teaching English Grammar Effectively: Exploring the Difference Between Explicit and Implicit Grammar Teaching

4 min read 4 min

IntroductionThe decades-old debate between explicit and implicit grammar teaching is one of the most divisive in language education.Advocates of expli...

Technology in the classroom

4 min read 4 min

Technology in the classroomLearning technologies have been essential for teachers and students for decades, if not centuries. In fact, at one point, e...

Exploring Multicultural Literature: Embracing Diverse Voices in the English Language Classroom

3 min read 3 min

Studying diverse voices and experiences which represent a wide range of backgrounds doesn’t just promote cross-cultural understanding, but also enable...

13 fail-safe icebreakers to use in class today

4 min read 4 min

It doesn’t matter whether students have started studying together, or whether they have known each other for years, there’s never a bad time to do an ...

Integrating Social Media into EFL Lessons: Enhancing Communication Skills and Presenting Language in Natural Use Situations

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Social media algorithms are specifically designed to present users with appealing and engaging content. This addictive nature also provides an opportu...

The Importance of Building a Classroom Library: Creating a Reading Culture in the Classroom

3 min read 3 min

Books are powerful tools in language learning. They provide examples of authentic language and expose students to different cultures and ways of think...

3 Activity Adaptations to Boost Student Participation in Class

4 min read 4 min

Active participation is what makes a class successful. Engaging in discussions, sharing thoughts and joining in with activities not only allows studen...

Fostering a Love for Reading: Strategies for Engaging Reluctant Readers

3 min read 3 min

One of the jobs of a teacher is to help reluctant readers find a passion for reading. This isn’t often easy! While a love for reading may come natural...

Nurturing a Growth Mindset in English Class: Encouraging Resilience and Perseverance

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There’s a story about a successful golfer. After he hit a hole in one, someone said to him: ‘I’ve never seen anyone so lucky in my life,’ To which he ...

The Power of Authentic Experiences: Incorporating Video into English Classes

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When we use language, we’re not just getting meaning from the words we hear. We also use visual cues to tell us what is happening. These could be the ...