When choosing how to study English, the decision often comes down to 1-to-1 lessons or group lessons. Group lessons may seem more affordable, but the value you gain from a 1-to-1 session often far exceeds the cost difference. Let’s explore the benefits of each option to help you decide which approach suits your learning needs and goals.
Firstly, a thought on why language learning is unique
Unlike many other classroom subjects, language learning is a skill that requires both theory and practice. It’s not enough to simply understand grammar rules or memorise vocabulary—you need opportunities to actively use the language to make progress.
Language teachers are trained to present the lesson clearly and concisely and then give you plenty of opportunities to practise. Whether you’re speaking, listening, writing, or reading, practice opportunities are essential for building fluency and confidence.
Keep this in mind as we look at the differences between 1-to-1 and group lessons.
The Benefits of 1-to-1 Lessons
1-to-1 lessons are highly personalised and allow you to focus on your specific needs. Here’s why they’re such an effective way to learn:
1. Personalised Instruction
In a 1-to-1 lesson, your teacher’s only focus is your learning. Every session is designed to suit your needs, whether you want to improve your pronunciation, focus on business English, or strengthen your grammar.
2. Maximum Practice Time
In a 1-to-1 lesson, you’re the only student, so you spend more time actively speaking, listening, and interacting, which is crucial for developing a skill like language.
3. 100% of the lesson is with to an expert
Any native speaker is an English expert, but when it comes to understanding patterns and grammar intricacies, you need a different kind of expertise. 1-to-1 lessons are especially useful for students who already have other opportunities to practise speaking English, but are looking for more focused and detailed guidance.
4. Learn at your Speed
You set the speed of the lesson. If something is challenging, you can take extra time to fully understand it. If you’re comfortable with a topic, you can move on quickly. This means no time is wasted and every minute of the lesson is valuable.
5. Speak Freely and Build Confidence
1-to-1 lessons allow you to develop a trusting relationship with your teacher, creating an environment where you can speak openly without judgement. This can be especially helpful for learners who feel shy or nervous about speaking.
6. Ask Questions
You can ask questions that matter to you. This includes exploring mistakes you make most often, clarifying confusing grammar rules, or exploring challenges that you have met outside the classroom. 1-to-1 lessons are also a great opportunity to work on something specific like a presentation or email.
7. Customised Materials
Your teacher can select resources and activities that fit your level, learning style, and your interests. This makes the lesson content relevant and practical, helping you achieve your goals faster.
The Benefits of Group Lessons
Group lessons have their own advantages, particularly for learners who enjoy collaboration and sharing ideas with others. Here’s what group lessons offer:
1. Affordable Learning
Group lessons are usually less expensive because the cost is shared among the participants. This can make them a more affordable option for some learners.
2. Learn from Others
You’ll be working alongside other students who are experiencing similar challenges. Sometimes, hearing another student’s explanation of a difficult concept can make it easier to understand. Your teacher's attention may be divided, but other student's questions and perspectives can help you think about problems in new ways.
3. Build Friendships
Studying in a group can help you build connections with other people. These friendships can motivate you to stay committed to your learning.
4. Structured Programmes
Group lessons often follow a clear syllabus or textbook and one that is designed for the average level of the class. If you enjoy a more traditional classroom structure, this can be a good fit.
5. Social Interaction
In group lessons, the practise is done with classmates. This can be helpful if you want to develop conversation skills and don’t have many opportunities to speak English outside the classroom. You may have limited time speaking to your teacher directly, but practising with other non-native speakers can be really valuable.
6. Collaborative Learning
Working on group activities or projects can make lessons more engaging. It’s also an opportunity to learn through teamwork, which can reinforce your skills in new ways. You can bounce ideas off classmates and develop new perspectives. Doing homework together also has learning benefits.
Key Differences:
Here’s a quick comparison:
Feature | 1-to-1 Lessons | Group Lessons |
Practice Time | Maximised: all your time is active | Shared: practice is divided among students |
Personal Feedback | Personal and specific | General and shared |
Lesson Pace | Flexible: tailored to your progress | Fixed: set for the group average |
Speaking Practice | 1-to-1 with a teacher (native and expert) | Mix of teacher and peer interaction (native and non-native) |
Learning Materials | Customised for your needs | Standardised for the group |
Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
A Note about Value
While group lessons are less expensive, consider the results you want to achieve. With 1-to-1 lessons, you may be able to reach your goals more quickly and efficiently, which can save you both time and money in the long run.
A Note about Levels
For group lessons to work well, students need to be at a similar level. In many cases, groups include a range of abilities, which can affect the pace. Some students might find the lessons too slow, while others may feel overwhelmed. Many programmes offer 7 different levels (Beginner - Elementary - Pre-Intermediate - Intermediate - Upper-Intermediate - Advanced - Proficiency). If a school has fewer classes than this, it might suggest the range of level within each class is quite large.
So, Which Is Best for You?
1-to-1 Lessons
If you want to improve quickly, build confidence, and focus on areas that matter most to you, 1-to-1 lessons are an excellent choice. They maximise your practice time and allow your teacher to design lessons that suit your unique goals.
Group Lessons
If you’re on a tighter budget or enjoy learning with others, group lessons might be the right fit. They provide social interaction and opportunities for collaboration, but the pace and focus are shared among all students.
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