Online ESL teaching has become a long-term part of language education. Whether you run group classes or one-to-one lessons, platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams and ClassIn now give teachers the tools to create engaging, high-quality online sessions for young learners.
This guide shows you how to use the best features of these platforms, how to keep children focused, and how to make online English lessons fun, structured and stress-free.
What Is Zoom and Why Do Teachers Use It?
Zoom is one of the most widely used video-conferencing tools for online teaching. It includes features that work particularly well for ESL lessons, such as screen sharing, annotation tools and breakout rooms.
Other platforms offer similar functionality:
- Google Meet: simple, reliable and integrated with Google Classroom
- Microsoft Teams: ideal for schools already using Office 365
- ClassIn: built specifically for online teaching with interactive tools
- Whereby and Webex: lightweight alternatives for smaller classes
Most teachers end up choosing the platform that integrates best with their school systems. However, Zoom remains one of the strongest choices for primary ESL because of its ease of use and flexible teaching tools.
Useful Features for Online ESL Teaching
The following features apply primarily to Zoom, but have equivalents in most modern platforms.
1. Screen Sharing
Screen sharing allows learners to see your materials in real time. It is useful for:
- correcting homework
- reading activities
- story time
- picture descriptions
- worksheet explanations
Click the green “Share Screen” button and choose whether to share your full screen, a single window or a specific application.
2. Annotation Tools
During screen sharing, the annotation toolbar allows you to:
- highlight important vocabulary
- circle grammar points
- add text boxes
- use arrows to guide attention
This is especially helpful for young learners because it keeps the lesson visual and dynamic.
3. Sharing Audio and Video
If you use music videos, pronunciation clips or short animations, make sure to share your computer audio so learners hear the sound clearly and in sync. This reduces distractions and prevents children from clicking away to other tabs.
4. Digital Whiteboards
Zoom, ClassIn and Google Meet all offer versions of a digital whiteboard. You can:
- draw
- brainstorm vocabulary
- model sentence structures
- play quick drawing games
Children love the interactive element, and it replaces the traditional classroom whiteboard effectively.
5. Device Sharing
Zoom allows teachers to share the screen of an iPhone or iPad. This is useful if you want to show a language learning app or demonstrate an activity from your device.
6. Breakout Rooms
Breakout rooms allow you to divide the class into pairs or small groups. They are ideal for:
- role plays
- speaking tasks
- collaborative projects
You can join any room at any moment to monitor progress. Best for older primary learners who can work independently for short periods.
Top Tips for Teaching Kids Online
Online lessons bring their own teaching rhythm. These tips help keep lessons smooth, manageable and enjoyable.
1. Use Scheduling Software
Tools such as Calendly synchronise with Zoom, Google Meet and Teams.
Parents book a time that suits them, the lesson appears in your calendar automatically and the link is generated for you. It saves countless messages and avoids confusion.
2. Record Lessons When Appropriate
Recording a lesson can help you review progress, share learning moments with parents or rewatch key explanations. Always follow your safeguarding guidelines and check that parents have given permission.
3. Download the App Instead of Using the Browser
The desktop versions of Zoom, Meet or Teams are more stable than browser versions. You will have fewer audio, video and connectivity issues if you use the app.
4. Invest in Good Audio
A simple USB microphone or a headset with a built-in mic dramatically improves clarity. Children lose focus quickly when audio is unclear, so good sound is essential.
5. Keep an Adult Nearby
For younger learners, ask that a parent or guardian stays within hearing distance. This helps with technical issues and ensures learners stay safe and engaged.