Demystifying ELT Theories

Demystifying ELT Theories – A Beginners’ Guide for Delta Candidates

Let’s face it — the world of ELT theories can feel overwhelming at first.
From structuralism to sociocultural theory, from Krashen to Thornbury, it can seem like you need to master an entire academic library before you even start the Delta Module One.

But here’s the good news:
You don’t need to be a walking ELT encyclopedia to succeed. What you do need is clarity, focus, and expert support to make sense of the theories that matter most — and apply them effectively in exam tasks.

Our online Delta Module One course will help you decode the jargon, understand how theory connects to classroom practice, and develop the confidence to use key concepts fluently and appropriately.

So, how do we make ELT theory less scary and more accessible?
Let’s take a look…

• ✔We Simplify the Big Picture
  We start by showing you how the major schools of thought fit together — from grammar-translation to task-based learning — and how they influence today’s classroom approaches. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of the ‘why’ behind the methods you already use.
• ✔We Focus on What the Exam Actually Tests
  Cambridge isn’t testing how many names you can drop — it’s about how well you can apply theoretical principles to real-life contexts. We guide you to focus your study time on what really counts.
• ✔We Use Visual Aids, Tables, and Comparisons
  Our materials break down complex ideas using timelines, charts, and compare/contrast summaries. These tools make it easier to retain information — and easier to recall it under pressure.
• ✔You Get Regular, Targeted Practice
  We don’t just explain the theory — we give you lots of exam-style practice to apply it. You’ll write definitions, analyse methods, and link theory to practice, all with detailed feedback from tutors.
• ✔We Provide Handy Reference Resources
  Our theory glossaries, quick guides, and recommended reading lists are curated to support your learning without overwhelming you. You’ll always know where to look when you need a refresher.
• ✔Live Input and Discussion Help Theory Stick
  Our interactive input sessions and forum discussions help you explore theory in context, ask questions in real time, and make meaningful connections between the ideas and your own teaching.
• ✔Expert Tutors Help You Make the Leap
  Our team includes experienced Delta trainers and examiners who know how to make theory accessible and relevant — and how to coach you to write about it with confidence and precision.

The result?
You’ll stop seeing theory as a mountain to climb — and start seeing it as a set of tools to help you succeed. Because once you understand the why, the how becomes much easier.

And remember: you’re not in this alone. With IH Lisbon’s structured support, expert guidance, and accessible materials, you can stop worrying and start preparing smarter.

But don’t just take our word for it — here’s what some of our past candidates had to say:

“The course helped me deepen my understanding of linguistics, grammar, syntax and so much more… I felt very confident on the day of the exam.”
— Camilla Anziliero