Things you should know when teaching English in China

Leaving your comfortable home in the West and embarking on a journey to the East may sound scary. But, you know, travel full of unknowns is the most exciting one.

Now, we have compiled a list of things you need to know about teaching English in China to help you solve those "unknown mysteries".

DO I NEED TO SPEAK CHINESE TO TEACH ENGLISH IN CHINA?

Speaking Chinese is not a prerequisite for teaching English in China, although knowing some commonly used Chinese will facilitate your life in China, such as asking directions and ordering food.

In fact, TEFL teachers are not encouraged to speak the students' mother tongue in class. "Immersion is the best way to learn a language" . Communicating with students in English allows them to learn to express themselves in English more quickly and cultivate their thinking mode like native English speakers.

Of course, knowing some basic knowledge of Chinese helps you to talk with locals and make your life in China more colorful.

Here are some effective ways to learn Chinese when teaching in china. 

WHAT IS THE COST OF LIVING LIKE IN CHINA?

Compared with many developed countries in the West, the cost of living in China is much cheaper, even if there are differences between different cities. One fact is: a reasonable distribution of your salary will allow you to have a comfortable life, no matter where you are. In first-tier cities, such as Beijing and Shanghai, you have more opportunities to see famous attractions and enjoy your dinner in high-end restaurants, but this also means that your cost of living is much higher than in second-tier cities, such as Chongqing (maybe two to three times).

Therefore, when deciding which city to work in, you need to consider the local cost of living. Highly developed big cities have high living costs, but you can enjoy more entertainment; small cities with low living costs can give you more disposable income (excluding your daily expenses), and also make you have more “real” Chinese experience.

WILL I MEET LOTS OF PEOPLE IN CHINA?

There is no doubt that you will meet lots of friendly people in China and experience various of interesting things here.

If you choose to teach at TeacherRecord, you will have a group of friendly colleagues, including foreign and Chinese employees. But if you meet someone from a foreign country like you in China, both of you will often lament the wonder of fate.

The Chinese are very hospitable and they are willing to do you a favor when you are at trouble and share the attractive Chinese culture with you if you like. Don’t worry about “exclusiveness”.

IS TEACHING IN CHINA A GOOD CAREER MOVE?

"Teaching in China, what can I get besides money? "Maybe this question has been lingering in your mind for a long time. The answer is: a variety of professional skills that can be transferred in your later work career, such as speech skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills and creativity.

Teaching English in China not only allows you to make new friends and experience the ancient culture, but also offers you a high-paying job and chances to develop your professional skills.