ESL Curriculum Lessons for Speakers of Other Languages
What Is the English as a Second Language (ESL) Curriculum?
My lessons are based on the Twinkl ESL (English as a Second Language) Curriculum. This curriculum is a complete, engaging learning programme designed to help children develop English naturally and confidently.
It is based on real communication and everyday topics, supporting children as they build strong foundations in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
This curriculum is perfect for learners who are not yet ready for formal Cambridge English preparation or who simply want to improve their English skills in a fun, structured way.
How the Course Works
The Twinkl ESL Curriculum is divided into levels that align with international CEFR standards (A1–B1), meaning it builds up progressively in small, achievable steps.
Each unit focuses on:
- A key topic – such as family, food, school, animals, hobbies, or travel
- New vocabulary and useful phrases
- Grammar focus to help children form correct sentences
- Speaking and listening practice to build real-life communication
- Reading and writing activities to reinforce understanding
- Games, songs, and creative tasks to make learning fun and memorable
All lessons are built around colourful, child-friendly resources and interactive activities to keep learners motivated and confident.
What Students Learn
Vocabulary & Topics
Children learn English through meaningful themes including:
- Family, friends, and school life
- Colours, numbers, and describing people
- Food, clothes, and shopping
- Animals, weather, and seasons
- Free time, hobbies, and sports
- Travel, places, and directions
- Feelings and everyday actions
Grammar Development
Each level introduces new grammar in a clear and age-appropriate way. Examples include:
- Using to be, have got, and simple present verbs
- Talking about daily routines and preferences
- Forming questions and negatives
- Describing people, objects, and places
- Learning basic past and future forms as confidence grows
Communication Skills
- Listening: Understanding short conversations and instructions
- Speaking: Asking and answering simple questions confidently
- Reading: Recognising key words and short texts
- Writing: Copying, completing, and creating short sentences
Why Parents Love the Twinkl ESL Curriculum
- Structured and engaging: Every lesson follows a clear, enjoyable routine.
- Visually rich: Colourful illustrations, games, and activities make learning fun.
- Flexible: Lessons can be adapted for different ages, abilities, or goals.
- Confidence-focused: Encourages children to use English, not just study it.
- Progressive: Builds step by step towards international standards like the Cambridge English pathway.
Prior Knowledge Needed
No previous English experience is required for beginners.
Each child starts at a level suited to their ability — and if you’re unsure, you can book a levelling session with me to find out which Twinkl ESL level is the best fit.
How I Teach
I use the Twinkl ESL Curriculum to create fun, personalised lessons that suit your child’s age, interests, and learning style.
Lessons can be taught individually or in small groups, and I can also provide extra home practice resources to help your child continue learning between sessions.
You might also be interested in my Cambridge English exam preparation lessons, if you are considering enrolling your child in language exams in the future. These lesson focus more on exam techniques and preparation for academic goals. I also offer Bespoke Conversational English Lessons for Children, based on their individual skills, interests, and goals. This article on the benefits of each approach will help you decided which path is best suited to your child, if you are unsure.
In Summary
The Twinkl ESL Curriculum is an engaging, internationally aligned English course that helps children build language confidence step by step.
It’s a wonderful option for learners who:
- Are new to English, or
- Like to learn using playful and engaging resources, or
- Have no intention to sit formal language exams in the future and just want to learn following a structured language curriculum, or
- Are developing their skills before starting the Cambridge English exams.
Your child will gain the vocabulary, grammar, and confidence they need to communicate naturally — all while having fun!
The Growing Way Tuition 