That's something I pay attention to when planning my lessons.
Find out what they can do independently
Can they use the vocabulary without a word bank? Can they explain why they think something? Can they build their own sentence when the example disappears?
Their answers help me decide what we need to practise next.
After 13+ years teaching in England, Thailand and Vietnam, including building and running my own language centre in Da Nang, I've learnt how important it is to connect that practice to something the student cares about.
Use their interests to give the language a purpose
If they enjoy gaming, we can practise giving instructions. If they love sport, we can compare players and explain opinions. If they're interested in technology, we can discuss an invention and how it works.
The interest gets them involved. The teaching gives the activity direction.
For example, a game can create opportunities to ask questions or explain a choice. I can then focus the feedback on a particular skill—such as forming a question, giving a reason or making a sentence clearer.
Listen for the next step
I use games and challenges in my lessons, but I'm also listening carefully: where do they hesitate, which mistakes keep coming back, and what can they now do independently?
Then we work on it, with clear examples, feedback and another opportunity to try.
That might mean modelling a sentence, helping the student build their own version, then returning to the activity so they can use it in context.
Can they explain the rules without your help?
If your child loves a particular game, ask them to explain how to play it in English. Don't start by correcting every word. Listen for whether they can give an instruction, describe a sequence and answer a simple follow-up question.
You might hear “First you choose a character, then you collect points.” That's already purposeful language. When a learner has a real reason to speak, there's something meaningful for a teacher to build on.
Make room for their ideas
Young people have plenty to say. Helping them find the English to say it—and the confidence to have a go—is a big part of why I enjoy teaching them.
What interests bring out the most conversation in the young people you teach?
If you're looking for English lessons for your child or teenager, get in touch and tell me about their interests, confidence and what you would like them to work on.