Taiwan Ministry

opportunities to share God’s truth

Preparing to Serve

Joshua holds the attention of his class by sharing stories with enthusiasm. In order to prepare for the teaching positions in Taiwan, students are required to take TESOL training. There are IBLP TESOL courses available, but TESOL training from a community college is also acceptable.

As the time commitment for serving in Taiwan is rather extended in length and has a high profile, it is best if students have had prior experience with ATI and IBLP opportunities (i.e., service at Training Centers, attendance of ALERT or EXCEL).

Generally, Chinese language classes are arranged for the team members while in Taiwan, but students may want to begin learning the language prior their departure. It is always gratifying to the nationals when foreigners make an effort to communicate in their country’s mother tongue.

Above all, it is important to learn to seek the Lord daily, and lean on Him for direction. Learn to rely on the Lord for strength, prepare to stand for what is right, and be open to and teachable in the lessons the Lord teaches every day.

Packing ListBack to Top

As you pack, remember that you must be able to carry your own luggage. The airline limits you to two pieces of luggage weighing no more than 70 pounds each. You may also have one additional carry-on of up to 50 pounds that can fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment. A purse or bag does not count as extra carry-on baggage. A backpack does count as a carry-on. (This may vary according to airline.)

You can find almost everything you will need in Taiwan. You will not need bedding, extra toiletries (except for deodorant—the Chinese do not wear it, so bring extra), laundry soap, many (heavy) teaching supplies, or electrical converters. Also, if you wear a shoe size larger than 8.5 (ladies’) or 10.5 (men’s), you might not be able to find shoes in your size. Bring vitamins and some kind of pain medication. You may also want to bring favorite recipes.

Clothing to Bring:Back to Top

Be prepared to dress for occasions varying from hiking and biking to meetings with leaders and officials.

  • Teaching

    As the schools are in rural areas, and the heat will be extreme, please plan on modest, casual attire. For the ladies—lightweight skirts (including denim) and comfortable, light colored shirts are acceptable. A single back slit is fine, if it does not go higher than the knee. Please avoid double side slits. For the men—collared shirts and casual pants are fine. No denim.

  • Special Dinners and Press Conferences

    Dress as professionally as possible. Navy and white attire is not required.

  • Recreation

    Teachers will be invited to do things that require flexibility. This could include hiking, touring, boating, etc. Although the clothing guidelines will still be maintained, be prepared for out of the ordinary activities.

Suggested Items:Back to Top

  • Umbrella/Rain coat (available in Taiwan)
  • Pictures of your home, family, & friends
  • Camera/Film
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Stain Remover
  • Gospel Tracts
  • Chinese–English Bibles (available in Taiwan)
  • Musical instrument
  • Small Power Strip—no 3 prongs, only 2 prongs
  • Tissue packs—Toilet paper is not provided in some public restrooms in Taiwan! (available in Taiwan)
  • Bring your own towel and washcloth.
  • Small gifts for the children you work with in the camps, for Teaching Assistants, for the teachers you work with during the school year, and for others you meet. (Bring things like pencils, bookmarks, stickers, pictures, postcards, candy, etc.) USA shirts can make great gifts.
  • It won’t be necessary to bring every single teaching supply you have. Most things can be purchased in Taiwan. As far as books or personal teaching resources, there will be a library available, but you are welcome to bring any books you have found to be effective.

Suggested Teaching Items:Back to Top

There is a possibility you may not have the freedom to use these things in the schools, but only for the camps.

  • Magazine pictures—used for describing objects, making sentences, etc.
  • Total Physical Response Box—a small box of objects to use as teaching aids
  • Markers, children’s books, flashcards, crayons, tape
  • “Koosh” ball or other soft ball for games
  • “Uno” cards are great anytime
  • Wallet size pictures of yourself to give to students—they often ask for them!
  • Address cards—many children will ask for your address
  • Travel size English dictionary
  • Travel size English–Chinese, Chinese–English Dictionary