The British Council has shared five effective ways classrooms can nurture English skills.

1. Leverage technology and digital tools

With increasing access to smartphones and the internet, digital tools are transforming English learning. Platforms like the British Council’s LearnEnglish offer free audio, video, and quizzes to practise listening, speaking, and reading. Teachers can assign short lessons or use apps with bilingual interfaces to help multilingual learners toggle between English and their native tongue. These tools support self-paced learning, boosting confidence in pronunciation and comprehension while moving beyond traditional chalkboard methods.

2. Spark engagement through game-based learning

Game-based activities — from vocabulary quizzes and role-playing to digital word games — can make English lessons more interactive and fun. Allowing code-switching between English and local languages enables beginners to take part actively without feeling intimidated, making the learning process inclusive and motivating.

3. Build connections through peer learning

Collaborative activities such as debate clubs, storytelling circles, or peer-teaching harness India’s communal learning spirit. Students can discuss festivals, social issues, or current events in English using multilingual prompts. This peer interaction encourages mutual support, helping learners refine their communication skills naturally.

4. Read, read — and read daily

Reading is one of the most powerful tools for language growth. Encouraging students to read newspapers, storybooks, or bilingual texts daily helps them expand vocabulary, improve grammar, and gain confidence. Activities like journaling, answering comprehension questions, or group reading sessions promote critical thinking and self-expression. Exploring diverse reading materials, both print and digital, gradually nurtures fluency and a lifelong reading habit.

5. Encourage everyday English conversations

Turning everyday classroom moments into opportunities for English dialogue makes learning authentic. Teachers can introduce morning check-ins, group discussions, or project presentations in English, helping students practise naturally. Virtual meetups and live practice sessions, such as those offered through the British Council’s myEnglish courses, further strengthen this immersive environment.

By embracing these approaches, classrooms can evolve into vibrant spaces where English learning fosters not only language mastery but also confidence, curiosity, and a lasting love for communication.