Mercy Wawira

Teaching English online has taught me that the best lessons feel more like guided conversations than traditional lectures. When I start with a new student, I spend the first session simply talking – discovering their goals, understanding their learning style, and identifying where they feel confident versus where they struggle. Some students light up when we dive into grammar rules and structures, while others freeze at the mention of verb tenses but flourish in free-flowing conversation practice.

My teaching methods blend structure with flexibility. A typical lesson might begin with a quick warm-up where we chat about their week in English – this gets them thinking in the language while giving me insight into their progress. From there, we might work through a specific grammar point using real-world examples (like crafting emails they actually need to send), practice pronunciation through tongue twisters or reading exercises, or role-play scenarios they'll encounter in their daily lives. I'm a firm believer in the "learn by doing" approach – we don't just study how to make small talk, we actually have small talk.

The content I choose depends entirely on the student's needs and interests. For business professionals, we might analyze actual reports or practice presentation skills. For exam prep students, we work systematically through past papers while building confidence in weaker areas. With conversational learners, we might watch YouTube videos, discuss current events, or explore topics they're genuinely curious about. I've found that when students are engaged with the content, the learning happens almost effortlessly.

Online classroom dynamics require intentional effort to maintain energy and connection. I use a mix of screen sharing for visual learners, breakout activities to keep things interactive, and regular check-ins to ensure no one's getting lost. Even in one-on-one sessions, I create a sense of partnership rather than hierarchy – we're working together toward their goals, and I'm genuinely interested in their progress and challenges.

What I've discovered over four years is that the most powerful moments happen when students forget they're "learning English" and simply start communicating. Whether it's a breakthrough moment when someone finally grasps the difference between present perfect and simple past, or the day a shy student dominates our conversation practice, these authentic connections and victories make every lesson worthwhile.