We can distinguish two opposing directions in the development of distance learning of foreign languages, in particular English as a foreign language: network platforms, where students comprehend a foreign language independently, without contact with a teacher, and "Zoom classes", conducted with the help of modern programs, providing a reliable video link. Today, of particular relevance is the task of "combining" these two approaches, which would preserve all the advantages of distance and traditional learning, and minimize the disadvantages. The article describes the linguistic and methodological foundations for creating such a distance learning course in EFL "from scratch", which optimally combines independent learning activity of a student and his/her work in contact with a teacher. The article formulates the basic principles of the development of this course.