What I Learned Teaching ESL Students from Around the World

When I first started teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), I had no idea how much I would end up learning.

I’ve taught children in Vietnam who barely said a word during our first class, and watched them laugh through role plays a few months later. I’ve coached business professionals in Brazil prepping for international interviews, and retirees in Italy simply looking to chat with their English-speaking grandkids. I’ve seen how language opens doors—not just to jobs and education—but to friendships, confidence, and joy.

Here’s what I’ve learned through the years, from real classrooms and Zoom calls, backed by some eye-opening stats and expert insights—and yes, sprinkled with a few hard-earned lessons.

 Lesson 1: Everyone’s Learning English—But for Different Reasons

Did you know over 1.5 billion people are learning English worldwide? According to a 2023 Statista report, it’s the most studied foreign language globally. And the British Council predicts that by 2030, almost 2 billion people will use it in their daily lives.

“English is still the global bridge language,” says Professor Jennifer Jenkins. “It dominates in business, tech, and education.”

It sounds big—and it is. But in the classroom, it gets personal fast. I’ve had students learning English to immigrate, to get promoted, or simply to travel confidently. That’s why learning how to create ESL lesson plans for adults (or teens, or kids!) that match their real goals is non-negotiable.

There’s no one-size-fits-all plan. You’ve got to meet students where they are—and help them grow from there.

 Lesson 2: Grammar Is Fine, But Conversation Builds Courage

One of the most common things I hear is: “I understand English, but I can’t speak it.”

Sound familiar?

A 2023 EF English Proficiency study backs this up. Learners who had weekly ESL conversation practice improved fluency 32% more than those who just focused on grammar.

In my own experience, it’s not fancy textbooks that build confidence—it’s real talk. That’s why I design the best ESL speaking activities for beginners around everyday life: ordering coffee, telling stories, and joking about awkward situations. The more natural and fun it is, the more they speak. And the more they speak, the more they grow.

Pro tip: Even shy students open up when they get to talk about their hometown or favorite food.

 Lesson 3: Culture Speaks Louder Than Grammar

One time, I asked a student from Japan to “argue your point” during a classroom debate. She froze. Not because she didn’t understand the words—but because in her culture, direct disagreement can feel rude.

That moment taught me a huge lesson: knowing English isn’t the same as knowing how to use English.

Incorporating how to teach cultural awareness in the ESL classroom changed everything. Now I talk about different communication styles, polite disagreement, humor, and even body language. Students feel more prepared—and honestly, so do I.

“Intercultural skills are just as important as language skills,” says Dr. Darla Deardorff, a global education expert.

 Lesson 4: Tech Helps—But It’s Not Magic

Apps like Duolingo and platforms like Cambly have helped millions start their English journey. But they’re just tools—not the whole toolbox.

According to a 2024 Cambridge English study, while 78% of learners use apps, only 42% felt they retained what they learned.

I’ve found that teaching ESL online effectively means going beyond screens. I use digital tools—sure—but I also build in human interaction: breakout room debates, shared docs for group writing, and creative games.

It’s all about connection, not just convenience.

Looking for ideas? Try combining the best online tools for teaching ESL with a little real-time laughter.

What It All Comes Down To

Over the years, I’ve taught hundreds of students. Different time zones. Different goals. Different accents.

But one thing’s always the same: They’re not just learning English—they’re learning to express themselves, be heard, and take up space in a global conversation.

Here’s what I’d tell any new teacher or curious learner:

• Personalize everything. Cookie-cutter doesn’t cut it.

• Focus on speaking, even if it’s messy.

• Bring culture into every lesson.

• Use tech, but always keep it human.

Whether you're figuring out how to teach English to non-native speakers effectively, or you're just starting to learn it yourself—remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, connection, and understanding.