Ace Your Online TEFL Demo Lesson: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve landed an interview for a teaching position, and they’ve asked for a short demo lesson. The request can feel daunting, especially when it’s online and time is tight. But a concise, well-structured demo is your golden ticket to showcase your skills. Let’s break down exactly how to prepare and deliver a winning performance.

First, Understand the Goal The interviewer isn’t expecting a full-blown class. They want to see your teaching presence, your ability to explain concepts clearly, and your rapport-building skills. They’re assessing your methodology and energy, not just the content.

Choosing Your Topic If you’re given a simple topic like colors or emotions, that’s perfect. These are visual, relatable, and easy to demonstrate quickly. Pick one and stick to it—depth over breadth is key for a 5-7 minute slot.

Your 7-Minute Demo Blueprint

Minute 0-1: The Warm-Up & Goal (15-30 seconds)

• Greet your “student” (the interviewer) with a big, friendly smile.
• Set the context clearly: “Hello! Today, we’re going to learn something fun. We’ll be talking about [e.g., feelings]!”
• State a simple, achievable objective: “By the end of our time, you’ll be able to name four different feelings in English.”

Minute 1-3: Presentation & Modeling

• Introduce 3-4 key vocabulary words. For feelings: happy, sad, angry, excited.
• Use strong visual aids. Have simple, clear flashcards ready on your screen or hold them up to your camera. Props are your best friend online.
• Model the language clearly. Say each word slowly: “Happy. I am happy.” Use exaggerated facial expressions or gestures. Ask the student to repeat after you.

Minute 3-5: Guided Practice & Checking Understanding

• Engage in a simple, interactive activity. This is where you shine.
  • For colors: “Point to something blue in your room!”
  • For emotions: “Show me your excited face!”
• Ask concept-checking questions. Don’t just ask “Do you understand?” Instead, ask: “If I win a game, am I sad or happy?” This proves real comprehension.

Minute 5-6: Brief Production Activity

• Give a mini-task that lets the “student” use the language.
  • “Tell me, how do you feel today?” (They use one of the new words).
  • “Look at this picture of a sunny beach. What color is the sky? How do the people feel?”
• Provide positive, specific feedback: “Excellent! You said ‘happy.’ Great job!”

Minute 6-7: Wrap-Up & Review

• Do a quick review: Hold up your flashcards one last time for a final chorus of the words.
• Praise the effort: “You did fantastic today learning these new words!”
• End positively: “Thank you for being such a great student! See you next time.”

Pro Tips for the Online Environment

• Tech Check is Non-Negotiable: Test your camera, microphone, and lighting before the call. Ensure a clean, professional background.
• Energy is Amplified Online: Smile more, gesture more, and speak with slightly more enthusiasm than you think is necessary. It translates better on screen.
• Have Your Materials Ready: Have your flashcards or props within easy reach. Fumbling breaks the flow.
• Treat the Interviewer as a Student: Make eye contact with the camera, not their face on the screen. This simulates real student-teacher connection.

Remember, they want you to succeed. They’re looking for a capable, engaging teacher. By following this clear structure, you demonstrate lesson planning skills, student engagement tactics, and professional composure—all in under seven minutes.

Take a deep breath, be yourself, and go show them what a great teacher you are.