English class, Lesson Lengths: 1-Hour, 90-Minutes, or 2-Hours – Which is Best for You?
- John Freeman
- Jan 6
- 2 min read
When it comes to choosing lesson lengths, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you prefer 1-hour, 90-minute, or 2-hour lessons depends on your schedule, learning style, and goals. I don’t offer sessions longer than two hours (because, let’s be honest, focus starts to fade!), but I’m happy to tailor lesson lengths to suit your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option.
1-Hour Lessons
Pros:
Easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Great for learners who prefer shorter, focused bursts of learning.
Ideal for covering a single topic or practising specific skills, like grammar or speaking.
Cons:
May feel a bit rushed for larger topics or more in-depth practice.
Less time for flexibility or tackling emergent language needs.
1-hour lessons work well if you’re taking a longer course with multiple sessions each week. They’re also perfect for maintaining momentum without overwhelming your schedule.
90-Minute Lessons
Pros:
My favourite option! Long enough to cover topics in depth while still leaving room for flexibility.
Great balance between focus and avoiding fatigue.
Allows time for warm-up, main activities, and emergent language practice.
Cons:
Requires a bit more time commitment.
May not suit learners with very tight schedules.
90-minute lessons strike the perfect balance for most learners. They’re long enough to make significant progress in a single session while keeping your energy and focus intact.
2-Hour Lessons
Pros:
Ideal for intensive courses or learners with fewer available days for lessons.
Allows for detailed exploration of complex topics or extended practice sessions.
Efficient for those aiming to complete a set number of hours quickly.
Cons:
Can feel tiring, especially if you’re tackling challenging material.
Requires more time in one block, which may not suit everyone.
May need a 10-minute break in the middle.
2-hour lessons are great for shorter courses or learners who want to maximise their study time in fewer sessions. Just be ready to stay engaged and take a short break if needed.
Which Should You Choose?
The best lesson length depends on your goals, course structure, and availability. If you’re unsure, I’m happy to discuss what would work best for you. Whether it’s a quick 1-hour session or a deep dive in a 90-minute lesson, the focus is always on helping you achieve your goals.
