ESL is an acronym that denotes classes for non-English-speaking students. It means "English as a Second Language." The ESL teacher works with students to help them assimilate the language and function in an English-speaking community. The job requires a person with both an excellent grasp of grammar and the ability to work with people from many different cultural backgrounds.The ESL teacher usually does not speak the language of the students. They can come from anywhere in the world and may speak any number of different tongues. It is not possible for one individual to master so many languages. The teacher must be able to communicate in nonverbal ways that make it clear what the English words mean.For example, to teach "Please sit down," the teacher will stand by a chair and speak the sentence. She then sits. She may then say "Please stand up" while she rises. Students are invited through appropriate gestures to participate.Various situations of daily life are addressed in ESL classes. Teaching about how to get around town, a teacher may lay out streets on a classroom table with buildings drawn onto a grid or represented by small boxes. Toy cars are sometimes used to demonstrate instructions like "Turn right at the next corner" or "Park in front of the bank."Teaching ESL provides the opportunity to meet people of many different cultures and a wide range of experience. It demands that the teacher be tolerant of other viewpoints and interested in the way others view the world. It also requires curiosity and creativity.ESL classes can be both fun and stimulating for the right individual. A sense of adventure and good social skills are important in this exciting field. Usually, the classes are offered in an adult education setting in the United States.The American TESOL Institute offers certification for people who want to teach ESL classes. The institute guarantees job placement for individuals who complete their course and pass certification tests.ESL classes may be offered in the United States for immigrants trying to learn the language. They also can be conducted in other countries where people want to learn English. ESL classes in foreign countries may be offered for children or adults.Teaching ESL can provide opportunities to see different parts of the world. For individuals who do not want to move to another area, it may be difficult to secure full-time employment.