Want to see your students truly thrive? When you introduce a new word or phrase, get the student using it immediately. Don’t just explain, engage. Try these simple yet powerful strategies!
Tutor: “We say ‘fed up’ when we’re tired of something. Like: ‘I’m fed up with the traffic.’ What’s something you’re fed up with at the moment?”
This keeps the focus always on student output.
- Use the chat box as a mini word bank
As phrases come up in the conversation, jot them down in the chat box with brief definitions or examples. This creates a running list of new language that your student can review later.
- Avoid turning it into a lecture
It’s easy to slip into "teacher mode" and start over-explaining. But remember: Pro students usually don’t want to be talked at, they want to talk more naturally. Let the student do most of the speaking, and use brief, high-impact interventions to teach language in context. If you’re talking more than 40–50% of the time, take a step back and look for ways to get the student more involved.
- Find your student’s perfect amount of content
Students will differ as to the amount of new language they will want to learn each session. We’d recommend discussing this with your student but if they’re not sure then somewhere between 5-10 learning points per 30 minute lesson could be a good ballpark figure.
In summary, instead of just explaining new language, get your students to use it right away and keep a running list in the chat for easy review. By letting them lead the conversation and using quick, impactful interventions, you'll help them learn more effectively and build their confidence. Give these tips a try and watch your students' progress soar!