In the age of digital classrooms, online teaching has become a popular option for many ESL teachers. Whether you’re a seasoned English teacher or new to teaching English, keeping your students focused online can be challenging. ESL learners, especially younger ones, may struggle with distractions, technical issues, or lack of motivation. So, how can you make your virtual lessons engaging and effective? Here are 20 tricks to keep your online ESL learners focused and excited about learning.

Start with a Warm-Up Game
Begin each class with a 2-3 minute game to grab your ESL learner’s attention. Try simple word games, “Would You Rather” questions, or a short quiz.

Use Visuals and Props
Props, flashcards, and images add a visual element that makes online learning more interesting, especially for visual learners.

Incorporate Songs and Videos
Use short songs or video clips to teach spoken English, vocabulary, or grammar. Music keeps energy levels high and improves listening skills.

Set Clear Goals
Let your students know what they will learn today. Goals help learners stay focused and motivated.

Keep Lessons Short and Varied
Break lessons into short segments—reading, speaking, listening, and games. This keeps the energy flowing and reduces screen fatigue.

Use Interactive Tools
Apps like Kahoot, Quizlet, and Jamboard can help ESL teachers create fun, interactive activities that keep learners engaged.

Call on Students Regularly
Make sure each student gets a chance to speak every few minutes. This helps develop spoken English and keeps learners alert.

Use Breakout Rooms
For group classes, use breakout rooms to encourage pair or group discussions. This adds variety and social interaction.

Give Instant Feedback
ESL learners improve faster when they receive feedback right away. Praise effort and gently correct mistakes.

Personalize Lessons
Tailor topics to student interests. If your student loves animals or sports, include these in reading and speaking activities.

Use Real-Life Scenarios
Role-plays like ordering food or having a job interview make lessons practical and useful.

Encourage Movement
Add short activities that require standing, pointing, or acting. Movement increases engagement, even in online classes.

Add Humor
A joke or a funny meme related to the lesson can lighten the mood and grab attention.

Ask Open-Ended Questions
These spark conversation and improve fluency in spoken English.

Give Homework with a Purpose
Assign short, fun tasks like recording a short video, writing a diary, or drawing vocabulary words.

Celebrate Progress
Recognize student achievements, even small ones. It boosts confidence and motivation.

Keep a Routine
A familiar structure helps students know what to expect and feel more comfortable.

Use Background Effects
Virtual backgrounds can match the topic (e.g., a beach when learning vacation vocabulary).

Stay Positive and Energetic
Your energy as an online English teacher directly affects your student’s engagement.

Create a Safe Space
Build a supportive, encouraging environment where learners feel safe to make mistakes and try.