What you will be able to do
- Research the learners, role and demo constraints.
- Answer interview questions with a specific teaching example.
- Design one achievable demo outcome.
- Ask how the employer supports learners and teachers.
Research before rehearsing
If the employer does not provide essential context, ask. A ten-minute presentation to interviewers is not the same task as a 30-minute lesson with learners.
- Learner age, level and goals
- Class size and delivery platform
- Required syllabus or materials
- Demo length and whether real learners attend
- Available equipment and contingency plan
- Evaluation criteria and safeguarding expectations
Common interview questions and useful evidence
| Question | Evidence to prepare | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| How do you plan a lesson? | A learner need, outcome, sequence and final check | Reciting a generic planning acronym |
| How do you handle mixed levels? | One task adapted through support and challenge | Claiming every learner receives a separate lesson |
| How do you correct errors? | A choice based on task purpose and error impact | “I correct everything immediately” |
| Describe difficult feedback | Observation, response, revision and later evidence | Blaming the learner or observer |
| How do you use technology? | A tool serving a teaching purpose plus backup | Listing apps without learning value |
Build a short demonstration lesson
- 1State one learner outcome that fits the time.
- 2Begin with a relevant example or problem.
- 3Elicit or model only what learners need for the task.
- 4Give learners an observable action as early as possible.
- 5Monitor and respond to evidence rather than continuing a memorised script.
- 6End with a fresh check and state the next teaching step.
A demo is not a compressed lecture. Even in ten minutes, create a moment in which the learner notices, decides, produces or applies something.
Questions to ask the employer
Use the lesson plan templateBuild a teaching portfolio
- How are learners placed and progress measured?
- What planning freedom and required materials do teachers have?
- How is observation and professional development organised?
- What are paid duties beyond teaching hours?
- How are cancellations, safeguarding and data handled?
- Which qualification or work-authorisation rules apply?
Explore the complete training pathway
Connect practical teacher development to assessed training
Review the current CVTE® curriculum, live-course format, observed-practice pathway, assessment, fees and enrolment terms on the commercial programme page.
Useful answers
Frequently asked questions
How long should a TESOL demo lesson be?
Use the time set by the employer. If none is supplied, ask rather than preparing a full lesson that cannot be observed fairly.
Can I use a lesson I have taught before?
Usually yes, but adapt it to the stated learners, time and resources instead of presenting it unchanged.
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Sources, scope and accuracy
This guide separates general teacher-development principles from provider-specific claims. Qualification, employer and destination requirements vary, so verify consequential decisions with the relevant employer, awarding organisation or government authority.
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