TKT Core Modules
The TKT Core Modules refer to Modules 1, 2, and 3. These modules are considered the “core” of the TKT test and are designed to assess a teacher’s knowledge of the principles and practices of language teaching, as well as their ability to plan and manage effective language lessons. By passing the TKT Core Modules, teachers can demonstrate that they have a solid understanding of the principles and practices of language teaching and are well-prepared to plan and manage effective language lessons.
What is included in Module 1?
Known as the Module of ‘Background to Language Learning and Teaching’, TKT Core Module 1 covers topics such as language learning, the role of context in language learning, and language skills and systems. It aims to test a teacher’s knowledge of the structure and use of language, as well as their understanding of the factors that affect language learning. It also tests your knowledge of terms and concepts commonly used in English language teaching. This Modules consists of 18 lessons categorised under three sections as follows:
- Describing language and language skills
- Background to language learning
- Background to language teaching
For a comprehensive description of Module 1, exam preparation tips and navigation map to all the 18 lessons, please visit TKT Module 1 page.
What is included in Module 2?
This is the Module of ‘Lesson Planning and Use of Resources for Language Teaching’. TKT Module 2 focuses on lesson planning and teaching resources, and covers topics such as lesson planning, selecting and adapting teaching materials. It assesses a teacher’s ability to plan effective lessons and to use appropriate materials and resources to support student learning. It consists of 8 lessons under the following two categories:
- Planning and preparing a lesson or sequence of lessons
- Selection and use of resources
For a comprehensive description of Module 2, exam preparation tips and navigation map to all the 8 lessons, please visit TKT Module 2 page
What is included in Module 3?
This is the TKT Core Module of ‘Managing the Teaching and Learning Process‘. TKT Module 3 explores strategies for classroom management and student engagement. It aims to test a teacher’s understanding of the processes involved in teaching and learning, including how to assess student progress and provide appropriate feedback. The course content of this Module is spread over 7 lessons categorised under two sections as follows:
- Teachers' and learners' language in the classroom
- Classroom management
For a comprehensive description of Module 3, exam preparation tips and navigation map to all the 7 lessons, please visit TKT Module 3 page
Is there a particular order to follow the three Modules?
Certainly not. TKT is quite flexible, so you can start with whatever the Module(s) you are more comfortable with. There’s no particular order or a particular combination to be followed.
Most candidates with no prior teaching experience would start with Module 1 as the lessons are logically sequenced for a much sensible grasp of the concepts. However, for an experienced teacher, might find it more beneficial to start with Modules 2 and 3.
Should I take only one Module at a time?
You can take any number of modules in a single sitting, whether it’s one, two, or all three modules. However, please note that attempting all three modules at once requires a significant amount of exam preparation. During the exam, it consumes a lot of energy and demands a higher level of concentration. For beginners, it is advisable to take one module at a time. However, experienced teachers may find it scalable to take all three tests in one sitting.
How will you be assessed?
Each test consists of 80 questions, 1 hour and 20 minutes in duration, which are 3-option multiple choice and matching questions. Completing each module earns you a certificate with a Band.
A Band indicates your performance in the test. There are four Bands, ranging from Band 1 to Band 4, with Band 1 being the lowest and Band 4 the highest. Here are the four Bands along with the number of correct answers required:
- Band 4: 70 or more correct answers out of 80 questions
- Band 3: 45-69 correct answers out of 80 questions
- Band 2: 16-44 correct answers out of 80 questions
- Band 1: 0-15 correct answers out of 80 questions
Although you are awarded a certificate regardless of the Band you have obtained, from an employability perspective, Band 3 is considered the minimum. Any Band lower than Band 3 carries very insignificant recognition.
How can I take the test?
If you follow a prep course at a language institute, they will usually take care of exam registration. If you study on your own, you will need to register for the tests at a Cambridge-approved exam center. Don’t worry; it’s a straightforward process.
- Choose a Cambridge approved exam centre of your choice
- Contact the centre for details - exam date(s), fee, registration deadline
- Complete your registration and receive your 'confirmation of entry'
- Take the test on the specific date mentioned in the 'confirmation of entry'
The procedure may vary slightly from country to country and from center to center, but in general, it is similar to the one described above.
Are all three core Modules mandatory for employment?
To obtain the title of ‘TKT Qualified,’ you must complete all three core modules. Additionally, note that you need to achieve at least Band 3 in each module, which is the minimum requirement in ELT. So, yes, it is highly likely that you will need to become TKT qualified to secure employment.
How much does it cost to get TKT qualified?
If you have chosen the self-study option, it will cost you only the exam fees. The exam fee varies from country to country, and there could be slight variations in the fee from center to center within the same country. However, at the end of the day, the self-study option will save you a considerable amount of money.
What is the time frame for completing the core modules?
TKT certificates are evergreen, so you are not restricted to a particular time period for completing all three core modules. Unless the content for TKT modules undergoes significant changes, you are all set to present your five-year-old Module 1 certificate along with the certificates for Modules 2 and 3 that you received last month.
Can I do TKT Specialist Modules first?
Yes, there are no restrictions on that. Most candidates complete their TKT Core Modules before starting the specialist modules. However, it is important to note that completing the specialist modules does not earn you the title of ‘TKT qualified’.
I want to self-study for TKT Core Modules. Where should I start?
Excellent! This website has got everything you need to get qualified in TKT at no cost.
Here are the links to each of TKT Core Modules:
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