Colombia, a country celebrated for its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, is also an exciting destination for TESOL teachers. We recently invited Emil Kobeissi (@merelyenglish), an experienced language teacher, to introduce us to Colombia’s top sites, cuisine, and engaging classroom activities for English learners. Emil’s insights provide a glimpse into the heart of Colombia and offer valuable tips for TESOL educators considering teaching opportunities in this dynamic country.
Must-Visit Landmark: The Museum of Antioquia
Shelly: Which landmark is a must for visitors?
Emil: The Museum of Antioquia is a landmark you won’t want to miss. It offers a deep dive into Colombia’s history, art, and culture.
Located in Medellín, the Museum of Antioquia is one of Colombia’s oldest museums and is famous for its collection of works by Fernando Botero, a Colombian artist known for his unique “Boterismo” style. The museum is not only a cultural gem but also a fantastic resource for TESOL teachers to connect with Colombian culture. Visiting landmarks like this helps teachers create cultural lesson content that resonates with students, making language learning feel relevant and connected to their heritage.
Taste of Colombia: Local Cuisine
Shelly: What is a popular local dish?
Emil: One of Colombia’s most popular dishes is bandeja paisa, a hearty combination of fried pork belly, beans, avocado, fried egg, rice, and an arepa.
Bandeja paisa, Colombia’s unofficial national dish, originated in the Antioquia region. It’s a flavorful, filling meal that embodies Colombia’s love for local ingredients and robust flavors. For TESOL teachers, food-related topics provide a fun and tasty way to engage students in conversation, vocabulary, and cultural exchange. Try creating activities around local dishes, like having students describe their favorite foods or even sharing recipes in English. This not only builds vocabulary but also fosters connection and curiosity about other cultures.
Engaging English Learners: Video-Based Communicative Activities
Shelly: Describe an activity your English learners enjoy!
Emil: My students love video-based communicative activities. I use authentic video materials, like TED Talks, to introduce grammar or vocabulary in a real-world context. After watching, we move into group conversations or debates based on the video content.
Emil’s use of TED Talks and similar videos highlights a fantastic teaching strategy. Videos are a valuable tool in language teaching because they provide authentic examples of spoken English, including accents, intonation, and cultural nuances. For TESOL teachers, video-based activities allow students to practice listening comprehension and engage in discussions that build their confidence in using English in real-life scenarios.
TESOL Certification and Teaching in Colombia
For TESOL educators, Colombia offers a unique blend of career opportunities and cultural exploration. The demand for English teachers is strong, with opportunities in private schools, language institutes, and universities. A TESOL certification opens doors to these roles, allowing teachers to immerse themselves in Colombia’s vibrant lifestyle while making a meaningful impact on local communities.
Fun Facts About Colombia for TESOL Teachers
- Land of Diversity: Colombia is home to the Andes Mountains, the Amazon Rainforest, Caribbean beaches, and bustling cities. It’s one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world, offering TESOL teachers endless travel adventures.
- Home of Coffee: Known for producing some of the best coffee globally, Colombia’s coffee culture is deeply rooted. Many TESOL teachers love exploring coffee farms in regions like the Coffee Triangle to learn about coffee-making from farm to cup.
- Medellín’s Transformation: Once known for its turbulent past, Medellín is now celebrated for its transformation and innovation. It was named “Most Innovative City” in 2013 by the Urban Land Institute, making it an inspiring place to teach and live.
Thank You, Emil!
Emil Kobeissi, a graduate of Trinity College and freelance TESOL teacher, is passionate about collaborative teaching and believes it’s the key to student engagement. Her methods combine culture, communication, and authentic materials, creating a rich and interactive learning experience for her students. Thank you, Emil, for sharing your experience and giving us a deeper understanding of what it’s like to live, work, and teach in Colombia!
Whether you’re planning a visit or considering teaching in Colombia, TESOL certification provides the skills and credentials needed to succeed. With the country’s growing demand for English education and its welcoming culture, Colombia is a fantastic destination for TESOL teachers ready to embark on a new adventure.
Video based communicative activities where grammar or lexis is presented through authentic video materials, such as TED. Depending on the TL, they enjoy a controlled task implemented followed by a group or small group conversation / debate.
Learn more about living and working in Colombia with TESOL certification.
