Want a stronger cover letter?

Use our extensive library of good cover letter examples as practical starting guides. You’ll also find ready-made content with our helpful Cover Letter Builder simply click, customize and download.

Icon

Select

Icon

Customize

Icon

Download

How to Format Your Cover Letter

Visit our helpful cover letter format and writing guide for additional advice on how to customize your application, or read on to find teaching-related advice. 

how-to-format-resume
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7

  • Contact information:

    • Ensure your professional cover letter header matches your resume for a cohesive look. Include your name, phone number and email. 

  • Date and recipient's mailing information:

    • Visit the company’s directory to research the hiring manager and contact info. Add the date of writing, followed by the manager’s name, job title, and professional mailing address. 

  • Greeting:

    • Begin the letter with a professional salutation. We prefer the following formal greetings: “Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,” “Hello, Mr./Ms. Last Name,” or the last resort, “To whom it may concern.”

  • Introduction:

    • Add the name of the position and company, how you learned about it, and one teaching skill or accomplishment to advertise your suitability in this opening paragraph.

  • Body:

    • Use one or two paragraphs to elaborate on one or two accomplishments listed on your ESL teacher resume. The goal is to quantify your training further and prove your proficiency.  

  • Closing statement:

    • In the final paragraph, reiterate your interest and qualifications. Express your eagerness to discuss your candidacy in an interview further.

  • Signature:

    • End the letter with a formal closing followed by your full name and, if applicable, your professional titles or certifications. Acceptable signatures include “Salutations,” “Best,” or “Regards.”

Use skills to personalize your ESL teacher cover letter

These resume skills and accomplishments are the foundation for a strong ESL teacher cover letter. Highlight your soft, hard and technical skills to provide effective language instruction to diverse learners.

1
Curriculum development:

Creating and designing effective lesson plans and course materials tailored to the needs of ESL learners. 

2
Differentiated instruction:

Adapting teaching methods and content to accommodate various learning styles and proficiency levels within the ESL classroom. 

3
Assessment and evaluation:

Implementing various assessment tools and techniques to measure students’ progress and identify areas for improvement. 

4
Language proficiency:

Demonstrating a high level of proficiency in English, including grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. 

5
Cultural sensitivity:

Understanding and respecting cultural differences to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for diverse students. 

6
Technology integration:

Computer skills incorporating educational technology and digital resources to enhance ESL instruction and engage learners. 

7
Classroom management:

Effectively managing student behavior, creating a positive classroom atmosphere and maintaining discipline while fostering a conducive learning environment. 

8
ESL methodologies:

Proficiency in various teaching methodologies such as communicative language teaching, the silent way and task-based language teaching. 

9
Individualized learning plans:

Developing and implementing personalized learning plans to address ESL students’ unique needs and goals. 

10
Multilingualism:

The ability to speak multiple languages can aid in understanding and assisting learners from diverse language backgrounds.

11
Phonetics and pronunciation:

Expertise in teaching correct pronunciation, stress patterns and intonation to improve students’ oral communication skills

12
Grammar instruction:

Providing in-depth instruction on English grammar rules and usage to enhance student’s writing and speaking abilities. 

13
Cultural competence:

A deep understanding of cultural nuances and customs to facilitate cross-cultural communication and comprehension. 

14
Professional development:

A commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest ESL teaching methods and resources. 

15
Adaptability:

The ability to adjust teaching strategies and materials in response to evolving student needs and changing educational environments.

bulb icon

PRO TIP:

Don’t overstuff your cover letter — limit yourself to one or two skills so you can adequately highlight your accomplishments. Prioritize skills or achievements requested on the job advertisement to score well on applicant tracking systems (ATS). Visit our ATS resume article to learn more about these tools.

Free ESL Teacher Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Fludd:

As a skilled and enthusiastic ESL teacher with 10 years of experience developing lesson plans and curricula for students of all ages, I am pleased to submit the enclosed resume for your review. My background and passion for education position me to impact Peters Learning Academy in this role.

Classroom management, personalized learning programs and innovative educational techniques are just a few of my areas of expertise. I have honed my communication, creativity and motivational skills by teaching students of various ages and situations. My inherent passion for fostering collaborative and engaging educational environments has successfully encouraged and developed productive, thoughtful and accomplished ESL students.

Highlights of my qualifications include:

  1. Developing targeted curriculum, planning instructional / training programs, and educating students of diverse ages and backgrounds in career development, reading and writing, language skills, and software programs.
  2. Communicating effectively and compassionately with students from all corners of the globe who are facing cultural, language, and general assimilation challenges.
  3. Incorporating individual schools’ philosophies and academic objectives into lessons while allowing creativity and flexibility.
  4. Earning recognition from students, parents and peers as a disciplined and insightful educator who cultivates meaningful connections with learners and their families to ensure optimal learning experiences.

With my experience and credentials, I am well prepared to dedicate myself to your school’s highest standards of ESL learning and exceed your expectations for this position. I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to explore my qualifications further. Your consideration is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Wendy J. Rice

This cover letter effectively showcases Wendy’s qualifications, experience and passion for teaching. It is well-structured and accurately aligns with the position’s requirements and the values of Peters Learning Academy.

Add a Resume as a Foundational Base

A cover letter helps promote your resume — but your resume acts as an essential building block for your job search. This concise summary helps hiring managers trace your training, experience, skill development and accomplishments. The following help articles, online tools and samples can help you improve your resume.

ESL Teacher Cover Letter FAQ

How can I make my ESL teacher cover letter ATS-friendly for online applications?

Ensure your cover letter includes relevant keywords from the job description. Use a clean and straightforward format, avoiding graphics. Tailor your content to match the specific job requirements, which increases the chances of passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Why should I use action verbs in my ESL teacher cover letter, and how can I tailor my resume to a job posting?

Action verbs like “instructed,” “adapted” and “assessed” make your experiences more impactful. Tailoring your resume means aligning your skills and experiences with the job posting’s requirements. Highlight relevant accomplishments and skills that match the employer’s needs.

How do I customize my ESL teacher resume for a specific job posting?

Review the job description thoroughly and identify the key requirements. Tailor your resume by emphasizing relevant teaching experiences, certifications and skills that match the specific job. Showcase how your qualifications align with what the employer is seeking.

What's the preferred resume format for ESL teaching positions, and should I include a cover letter with my application?

Depending on your experience, a chronological or functional resume format works well for ESL teaching positions. A cover letter can be beneficial as it introduces you and provides context for your application.

Should I include my teaching philosophy in my ESL teacher cover letter?

While it’s unnecessary, you can briefly mention your teaching philosophy if it directly relates to the job or reflects your approach to teaching. However, prioritize showcasing your qualifications and experiences that match the job requirements in your cover letter.