100 Best Education Expressions to Boost ESL Speaking Skills

If you’re looking for the most useful education expressions to teach in your ESL class, you’ve found the right post. Whether you’re designing lessons about school, planning speaking activities, or preparing students for real-life conversations, this resource will help you cover everything you need.

This post brings you 100 essential education expressions organized into 10 clear categories. They’re perfect for building your students’ vocabulary, improving fluency in conversations, and getting them ready to ask and answer questions about school, teachers, homework, learning goals, and more.

Each expression comes with a short example and a clear situation. This helps your learners understand when and how to use the phrases correctly. These examples are great for role-plays, speaking games, and pair work. You can even use them to teach idioms, prepare debates, or plan short writing tasks.

Whether your students are learning face-to-face or online, beginner or intermediate, these expressions will fit easily into your lesson plans. You won’t need to search for extra materials—this one post has it all.

So scroll down and explore the full list. You’ll find the best classroom-ready education expressions that your students can start using right away!

Why Expressions About Education Are Helpful for ESL Students

Talking about education is a big part of everyday life, especially for students and teachers. That’s why learning common education expressions helps ESL students feel more confident when discussing school topics in English.

These expressions let learners share their opinions about classes, teachers, homework, grades, and even future plans. They also help students understand classroom instructions, participate in group work, and respond to questions more naturally.

Many of these expressions are used in real-life school settings, exams, and even job interviews. Knowing them builds both listening and speaking skills.

Plus, once students become familiar with the expressions, they start thinking in English. This makes their answers smoother and more fluent during conversations, role-plays, or writing tasks.

In short, education expressions are not just about vocabulary—they’re key tools for real communication.

Classroom Instructions

This category includes useful expressions that are commonly heard in any classroom. These are especially helpful for beginner and intermediate learners, as they reflect daily classroom routines. Teachers can use these phrases to introduce classroom English, and students can practice them through role-plays or listening activities.

1. Please take out your books.
(Used by teachers to start a lesson or activity.)
“Please take out your books and turn to page 24.”

2. Can I go to the bathroom?
(Used by students to ask for permission.)
“Excuse me, can I go to the bathroom?”

3. Raise your hand before speaking.
(Used by teachers to manage class discussions.)
“Remember, raise your hand before speaking.”

4. Work in pairs.
(Instruction for pair activities or discussions.)
“Work in pairs and ask each other the questions.”

5. Listen carefully.
(Given before giving directions or playing audio.)
“Listen carefully to the dialogue and take notes.”

6. Don’t shout, please.
(To manage noise level and behavior.)
“Don’t shout, please. Speak one at a time.”

7. Time’s up!
(Used when the time for an activity or test ends.)
“Time’s up! Please stop writing.”

8. Repeat after me.
(For pronunciation and drilling practice.)
“Repeat after me: ‘education’.”

9. Any questions?
(To check students’ understanding.)
“Any questions before we move on?”

10. Let’s begin.
(A simple phrase to start a lesson.)
“Okay class, let’s begin with some vocabulary review.”

Subjects and Courses

Learners often need to talk about school subjects or what they are studying. These expressions can be useful in discussions about interests, class schedules, or academic preferences. Teachers can use this list to practice speaking and vocabulary related to academic content.

1. I’m taking math this semester.
(Used to talk about current courses.)
“I’m taking math, English, and computer science this semester.”

2. History is my favorite subject.
(Used to express preferences.)
“History is my favorite subject because I love learning about the past.”

3. I’m majoring in biology.
(Common in university settings.)
“I’m majoring in biology, but I also like chemistry.”

4. We have science on Mondays.
(Talking about a weekly schedule.)
“We have science on Mondays and Wednesdays.”

5. He’s good at math.
(Used to talk about someone’s strength.)
“She’s good at math, but not very confident in English.”

6. I’m bad at physics.
(Used to talk about difficulty or weakness.)
“I’m bad at physics, so I need extra help.”

7. I need to choose my electives.
(Used when discussing optional courses.)
“I need to choose my electives for next semester.”

8. We’re studying geography right now.
(Describing current lessons.)
“We’re studying geography and learning about different countries.”

9. Art class is really fun.
(Used to describe an enjoyable subject.)
“Art class is really fun because we get to paint and draw.”

10. Do you have computer class today?
(Used to ask about someone’s schedule.)
“Do you have computer class today or is it tomorrow?”

Grades and Assessment

Talking about grades and evaluations is an essential part of school life. These expressions help students express their performance, worries, and feedback about tests and assignments. Teachers can use these phrases for role-plays or self-assessment activities.

1. I passed the exam!
(Used to express success.)
“I studied hard, and I passed the exam!”

2. I failed the test.
(Used when someone didn’t pass.)
“I failed the test because I didn’t understand the grammar.”

3. I got an A in math.
(Used to share grades.)
“I got an A in math and a B in science.”

4. The teacher gave me good feedback.
(Used to describe evaluation comments.)
“The teacher gave me good feedback on my essay.”

5. I need to improve my writing.
(Used for self-reflection.)
“I need to improve my writing to get better grades.”

6. We have a quiz tomorrow.
(Used to talk about upcoming assessments.)
“We have a quiz tomorrow on vocabulary.”

7. She got full marks.
(Used to describe perfect scores.)
“She got full marks on the spelling test.”

8. I didn’t study enough.
(Expressing regret or explanation.)
“I didn’t study enough, so I didn’t do well.”

9. What’s your score?
(Used to ask about another student’s result.)
“What’s your score on the final exam?”

10. I need to retake the test.
(Used when a student has to do a test again.)
“I need to retake the test because I was sick.”

School Life and Routines

This set of expressions captures the daily rhythm of school, including routines, activities, and rules. Teachers can use these to build lessons around schedules, time management, or “a day in the life” role-plays.

1. We have assembly every morning.
(Talking about regular school activities.)
“We have assembly every morning at 8:00.”

2. Lunch break is at noon.
(Describing school schedules.)
“Lunch break is at noon and lasts for 40 minutes.”

3. I take the school bus.
(Talking about transportation.)
“I take the school bus every day.”

4. We start classes at 9 a.m.
(Describing start times.)
“We start classes at 9 a.m. and finish at 3.”

5. I forgot my homework.
(Common student excuse or mistake.)
“I’m sorry, I forgot my homework at home.”

6. We have to wear uniforms.
(Talking about school rules.)
“We have to wear uniforms from Monday to Thursday.”

7. I sit next to my best friend.
(Describing classroom seating.)
“I sit next to my best friend in science class.”

8. The bell just rang.
(Talking about school schedule signals.)
“The bell just rang—time to go to the next class.”

9. We had a school event yesterday.
(Talking about past school activities.)
“We had a school event yesterday with music and games.”

10. Our teacher was absent today.
(Describing unusual class situations.)
“Our teacher was absent today, so we had a substitute.”

Learning and Study Habits

Understanding how students study and learn is key for personalizing teaching. These expressions help learners describe their study methods, challenges, and preferences. Teachers can use these for self-reflection activities or peer interviews.

1. I study best in the morning.
(Describing personal learning time.)
“I study best in the morning when it’s quiet.”

2. I’m a visual learner.
(Talking about learning styles.)
“I’m a visual learner, so diagrams help me a lot.”

3. I take notes during lectures.
(Describing study habits.)
“I always take notes during lectures to remember things better.”

4. I need to focus more.
(Describing a challenge in studying.)
“I need to focus more when I’m reading.”

5. I use flashcards to memorize words.
(Sharing a study strategy.)
“I use flashcards to memorize new vocabulary.”

6. I get distracted easily.
(Talking about study difficulties.)
“I get distracted easily when I study at home.”

7. I like to study in the library.
(Describing preferred study locations.)
“I like to study in the library because it’s quiet.”

8. I review my notes every evening.
(Talking about routines.)
“I review my notes every evening after dinner.”

9. I need help with time management.
(Reflecting on study challenges.)
“I need help with time management to finish all my assignments.”

10. I’m preparing for a big exam.
(Talking about current study focus.)
“I’m preparing for a big exam next week, so I’m studying hard.”

Class Participation and Group Work

These expressions are helpful in developing speaking, listening, and collaboration skills. Teachers can encourage students to use them during role-plays, group discussions, or debates.

1. Let’s work in pairs.
(Instruction or suggestion for pair work.)
“Let’s work in pairs and complete the worksheet.”

2. I agree with you.
(Used to show agreement.)
“I agree with you. That’s a good point.”

3. Can I go next?
(Asking to participate.)
“Can I go next? I have something to say.”

4. I don’t understand the question.
(Asking for clarification.)
“I don’t understand the question. Can you explain?”

5. Let’s take turns.
(Encouraging fair participation.)
“Let’s take turns reading the dialogue.”

6. Who wants to start?
(Used by teachers or group leaders.)
“Who wants to start the presentation?”

7. Please speak louder.
(Asking for better communication.)
“Please speak louder. I can’t hear you.”

8. That’s a great idea!
(Giving positive feedback.)
“That’s a great idea! Let’s include that in our project.”

9. Can you repeat that?
(Asking for repetition.)
“Can you repeat that? I didn’t catch it.”

10. We finished our task.
(Reporting group progress.)
“We finished our task and are ready to present.”

School Facilities and People

This group of expressions helps learners describe different parts of a school and the people who work or study there. These are useful for giving directions, asking questions, or describing their school environment.

1. The library is on the second floor.
(Used to give location information.)
“The library is on the second floor, next to the science lab.”

2. I need to go to the office.
(Talking about administrative needs.)
“I need to go to the office to submit my form.”

3. Our principal is very friendly.
(Describing school staff.)
“Our principal is very friendly and always greets students.”

4. The classroom is too hot.
(Describing classroom conditions.)
“The classroom is too hot in the afternoon.”

5. I’m looking for the gym.
(Asking for directions.)
“I’m looking for the gym. Do you know where it is?”

6. The canteen is crowded today.
(Talking about the cafeteria.)
“The canteen is crowded today because of the special lunch.”

7. He’s the new math teacher.
(Introducing school staff.)
“He’s the new math teacher who started last week.”

8. The nurse is in the medical room.
(Talking about support staff.)
“The nurse is in the medical room if you feel sick.”

9. I asked the librarian for help.
(Describing interactions.)
“I asked the librarian for help finding a book.”

10. Our classroom has a smartboard.
(Describing classroom features.)
“Our classroom has a smartboard and a projector.”

Homework and Assignments

This category covers the language learners need to talk about homework, projects, and classwork. Teachers can use these expressions for writing or speaking tasks that involve academic responsibilities.

1. I forgot to do my homework.
(Admitting a mistake.)
“I forgot to do my homework last night.”

2. We have a project due next week.
(Talking about upcoming assignments.)
“We have a project due next week on the environment.”

3. I’m still working on it.
(Talking about unfinished work.)
“I’m still working on it. Can I submit it tomorrow?”

4. Can I hand it in later?
(Asking for a deadline extension.)
“Can I hand it in later? I wasn’t feeling well.”

5. I finished my assignment.
(Reporting completed work.)
“I finished my assignment and uploaded it online.”

6. The homework was easy.
(Describing task difficulty.)
“The homework was easy. I did it in 20 minutes.”

7. I didn’t understand the instructions.
(Asking for help.)
“I didn’t understand the instructions for the writing task.”

8. We had to write an essay.
(Describing a type of assignment.)
“We had to write an essay about our favorite teacher.”

9. She helped me with my homework.
(Talking about support.)
“She helped me with my homework after class.”

10. It’s due tomorrow.
(Talking about deadlines.)
“It’s due tomorrow, so I have to finish it tonight.”

Online Learning and Technology

These expressions are helpful for students navigating digital platforms and virtual classrooms. Teachers can use this list in lessons focused on digital literacy and online education.

1. I can’t hear the teacher.
(Common issue in online classes.)
“I can’t hear the teacher. Is my audio okay?”

2. Please turn on your camera.
(Instruction for video participation.)
“Please turn on your camera so we can see you.”

3. My internet is slow.
(Explaining connection issues.)
“My internet is slow, so I got disconnected.”

4. I uploaded the file.
(Talking about submitting work online.)
“I uploaded the file to Google Classroom.”

5. I need to share my screen.
(Used in presentations or group work.)
“I need to share my screen to show the slides.”

6. Let’s meet on Zoom.
(Planning an online session.)
“Let’s meet on Zoom at 6 p.m. for group work.”

7. The class was recorded.
(Talking about class availability.)
“The class was recorded, so I’ll watch it later.”

8. I couldn’t join the class.
(Explaining absence from online sessions.)
“I couldn’t join the class because of a power cut.”

9. Click the link in the chat.
(Giving digital instructions.)
“Click the link in the chat to open the worksheet.”

10. We use an app for homework.
(Describing tools.)
“We use an app for homework and checking grades.”

Educational Goals and Plans

These expressions allow learners to talk about their future educational goals and dreams. They’re great for speaking or writing activities focused on motivation and planning.

1. I want to go to college.
(Talking about future plans.)
“I want to go to college after high school.”

2. I’m planning to study abroad.
(Describing long-term goals.)
“I’m planning to study abroad next year.”

3. I need to improve my English.
(Talking about skill goals.)
“I need to improve my English to pass the test.”

4. My goal is to become a teacher.
(Describing career goals.)
“My goal is to become a teacher and help students.”

5. I hope to get a scholarship.
(Talking about academic hopes.)
“I hope to get a scholarship to study at university.”

6. I want to learn more languages.
(Talking about personal development.)
“I want to learn more languages like Spanish and French.”

7. I’m working hard to get good grades.
(Describing effort.)
“I’m working hard to get good grades this year.”

8. I plan to finish school next year.
(Describing timelines.)
“I plan to finish school next year and get a job.”

9. I dream of going to medical school.
(Sharing aspirations.)
“I dream of going to medical school in the future.”

10. I’m preparing for university entrance exams.
(Talking about current actions toward a goal.)
“I’m preparing for university entrance exams this year.”

Problems and Solutions in School

Students often face challenges in their academic life. These expressions help them describe problems and discuss how to handle them. Teachers can use this category to support emotional expression and role-play solutions.

1. I’m falling behind in class.
(Talking about academic struggle.)
“I’m falling behind in class and need help.”

2. I’m having trouble with math.
(Describing a specific difficulty.)
“I’m having trouble with math this semester.”

3. I was absent last week.
(Explaining missed work.)
“I was absent last week, so I missed the lesson.”

4. I didn’t understand the lesson.
(Expressing confusion.)
“I didn’t understand the lesson. Can you explain it again?”

5. I feel nervous before tests.
(Talking about emotions.)
“I feel nervous before tests, especially in English.”

6. I have too much homework.
(Describing stress.)
“I have too much homework and not enough time.”

7. I need to talk to my teacher.
(Seeking help or guidance.)
“I need to talk to my teacher about my grades.”

8. Can you help me understand this?
(Requesting support.)
“Can you help me understand this exercise?”

9. I missed the deadline.
(Talking about late submissions.)
“I missed the deadline for the project.”

10. I’m trying to catch up.
(Describing effort to recover.)
“I’m trying to catch up with all my assignments.”

Final Thoughts

Teaching education expressions in your ESL class doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right expressions and real-life situations, your students will quickly feel confident talking about anything related to school and learning.

This complete list gives you ready-to-use material for building engaging lessons. Whether it’s for warm-up questions, speaking practice, or topic-based vocabulary, these expressions can easily fit into your teaching style.

Use them in role-plays, debates, and conversation tasks to make your students think deeper and talk longer. Over time, they’ll not only learn the expressions—they’ll start using them naturally in conversations.

Bookmark this post and come back to it whenever you plan a lesson on education. It’s your one-stop guide to making classroom learning more meaningful and fun.

FAQs about Using Education Expressions in the ESL Classroom

Why should I teach education expressions to ESL students?
Because school-related topics are common in everyday conversation. Teaching these expressions helps students discuss their own learning experiences and understand others more clearly.

What level are these education expressions suitable for?
Most of the expressions are best for pre-intermediate to upper-intermediate learners. But you can adapt the examples and tasks for beginners or advanced students as needed.

How can I use these expressions in a speaking activity?
You can build short dialogues, create role-plays, or give students real-life situations where they must use the expressions naturally in conversation.

Can I use these expressions to teach grammar too?
Yes! Many expressions involve verb tenses, conditionals, or modal verbs. You can highlight grammar structures while focusing on fluency.

What are some fun ways to teach these expressions?
Use games like “expression bingo,” pair discussions, classroom surveys, or storytelling activities where learners must include a few new expressions.

Should I teach the meanings or just let students guess from context?
Start with context through examples or role-plays, then check understanding. This helps build real fluency and deeper understanding.

Can I use these expressions for writing tasks too?
Absolutely. Ask students to write short opinion essays, reflections on school life, or advice letters using selected education expressions.

How do I help students remember the expressions long term?
Spaced repetition, classroom posters, regular review games, and real-use practice in class conversations work very well.

Do these expressions include idioms?
Yes! Many categories include common idioms related to learning and education. Idioms make your students sound more fluent and natural.

How often should I introduce new education expressions?
Introduce a few expressions each week. Focus on quality, not quantity, and make sure students get enough time to practice using them.