10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing an ESL App for Your Classroom

In a world full of flashy learning apps, English language teachers face a tough challenge: finding one that actually helps students speak better. Whether your students are just starting out or working toward fluency, the right app can make learning more engaging, structured, and effective. But how do you separate the genuinely helpful tools from the ones that just feel helpful?

These 10 questions will help you assess your options clearly—and avoid wasting time on apps that don’t align with your teaching goals.

1. Does it prioritize speaking skills?

Many apps focus on receptive skills—reading, listening, or multiple-choice matching—while claiming to support communication. But do they actually get students *speaking*?

Look for apps that:
- Include real speech practice 
- Give feedback on fluency, pronunciation, and accuracy 
- Scaffold speaking from words to sentences to full dialogues

Apps that stop at single words or isolated sentences can limit growth. Speakia, by contrast, uses a conversation-first approach—starting with words, building them into sentences, and finally practicing full dialogues. This helps students not just practice vocabulary, but use it meaningfully in real conversational contexts.

2. What kind of feedback does it give?

Not all feedback is created equal. Some apps only offer right/wrong responses, which can leave students guessing about how to improve.

Look for apps that:
- Provide personalized feedback on pronunciation, fluency, and accuracy 
- Use encouraging, learner-friendly language to boost confidence 
- Offer detailed analysis tools for teachers to help identify patterns and target support where it’s most needed

Speakia is designed with both students and teachers in mind. Learners receive motivating, easy-to-understand feedback that supports progress, while teachers gain access to rich data that highlights common challenges—making it easier to plan effective interventions.

3. Does the language sound natural—or like a textbook?

Rigid, scripted language may teach grammar, but it won’t help students sound natural. Listen closely: Do the sentences reflect how people actually talk? Are there contractions, everyday phrases, and real-world expressions?

Apps that use authentic, conversational language help learners connect more easily with English in the real world.

4. Can students use it independently?

An ideal ESL app supports both teacher-led instruction and self-guided learning. Look for: 
- Clear navigation and instructions 
- Age-appropriate design 
- Built-in motivation systems that don’t distract

This ensures students can continue learning even outside of class.

5. Is it engaging without being distracting?

Games, avatars, and sound effects can boost motivation—but too much can hinder focus. The best apps balance fun with a clear learning path.

6. Is the content structured and level-appropriate?

An effective ESL/ELL app should follow a clear progression and align with recognized frameworks, like the CEFR, even if you’re not following that framework directly. This ensures that students build skills in a logical order—from words to sentences to meaningful interaction.

It’s also helpful if the app content connects with your existing classroom program. Apps like Speakia are built around a structured scope and sequence that supports core language development and speaking fluency. In addition, Speakia provides classroom resources—such as worksheets and slides—aligned with the app content, making it easier to integrate into your lessons.

Whether you teach from a textbook, a curriculum framework, or your own syllabus, structure matters. It helps students understand where they are and what comes next.

7. Are there classroom resources aligned with the app?

Some apps exist in a vacuum. Others, like Speakia, offer supporting materials—such as lesson plans, printable worksheets, and speaking games—that reinforce the app’s language in a group setting. This is especially helpful for teachers who want a full classroom solution rather than a “just-for-fun” app.

8. What kind of learner is it for?

Are you looking for: 
- A comprehensive classroom tool? 
- A self-study option? 
- Something students can “play” with at home?

Clarifying your goal helps you choose an app that matches your teaching style and expectations.

9. Is it age-appropriate?

Apps designed for adult learners might not resonate with younger students—and vice versa. Check the tone, pacing, and visuals to make sure the app suits your age group.

10. Is there a clear learning path or structure?

The best ESL apps don’t just offer random activities—they offer intentional progression. Look for: 
- Thematic or leveled units 
- Repeated exposure to key structures 
- Integration of old and new language

This kind of structure helps learners build confidence over time and reduces cognitive overload.

Speakia is built around this very principle. Lessons are carefully sequenced to develop language in stages, with systematic learning and recycling of key words and sentence patterns. This ensures that learners not only encounter language repeatedly, but use it in new contexts—moving from isolated practice to fluent, confident communication.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right ESL app isn’t just about features—it’s about fit. Asking the right questions helps you find a tool that supports your curriculum, your teaching goals, and your students’ real progress.

And if you’re looking for an app that goes beyond vocabulary drills—offering real speaking practice, conversation scaffolding, and integrated classroom materials—Speakia might be the right choice for you.