What is International FreeTalk News?
FreeTalk News is a dynamic discussion-based English (ESL) program designed for pre-teens and early teens who are ready to think, speak, and engage with the real world in English.
Who is it for?
DESIGNED FOR ALL ENGLISH LEARNERS (A2-B2)
This program is ideal for students who:
• Are 10–14 years old
• Study English as a second language
• Can communicate but want more fluency
• Want to meet peers from other countries
• Are curious about the world
To maintain balanced participation, this program is reserved for non-native English speakers only.
What Makes this Different?
THIS IS NOT A GRAMMAR CLASS
International FreeTalk Online is a structured global discussion experience designed specifically for non-native English speakers.
Students:
• Practice speaking with other international learners
• Learn to understand different accents
• Discuss real world news in English
• Build confidence in a safe environment
• Develop critical thinking skills
Mistakes are welcomed. Respect is required. Confidence grows every week.
LEVEL STRUCTURE
In order to accommodate all students who are interested in FreeTalk News, we have two levels for you to choose from.
Level A
Emerging Global Speakers (A2-B1)
For students who:
• Hesitate when forming opinions
• Need vocabulary support
• Want structured speaking practice
Focus: Confidence + Guided Discussion
Level B
Confident Global Speakers (B1-B2)
For students who:
• Express opinions independently
• Enjoy debate
• Want deeper analysis
Focus: Debate Skills + Global Awareness
Students complete a short speaking assessment before placement.
Hi, I’m Lourens.
I’ve spent almost 30 years teaching English to young learners and teens, focusing on creativity, confidence, and real communication. My goal is simple: help students enjoy learning English, and to feel confident and proud when they use it.
Examples of News Topics
WHAT HAPPENS EACH WEEK
1️⃣ Materials Get Sent to Students Beforehand
Students read the news article and watch a MP4 video of the subject to be discussed that week.
2️⃣ Guided Discussion
The teacher gives students the opportunity to air their views and opinions through raised hands or by making use of the ‘open mic free talk’ period.
3️⃣ Culture Spotlight
Students get to share different perspectives from their own lives and countries.
4️⃣ Reflection Round
Each student is encouraged to speak as much as possible. This is real communication practice — not textbook exercises.
WHY IT MATTERS
English Today is Global
Most English communication happens between non-native speakers for example a Chinese person traveling in Germany will use English to communicate with the local people there.
International FreeTalk Online prepares students to:
• Speak confidently in international environments
• Understand different accents
• Participate in global discussions
• Think critically about world events
• Develop leadership communication skills
This is preparation for the real world.