This is a fun preposition game which enables learners to practice and uncover new prepositions of position as well as picking up some useful new vocabulary. It requires a bit of effort to prepare but this is usually rewarded by a heightened level of involvement and output from the learners. Two groups (of one to […]
This recipe game is based on a suggestion from the absolutely essential teacher’s resource book 700 Classroom Activities. This fun activity lets learners get creative while practising food vocabulary and presentation skills. What to do Put students into pairs or threes and tell them that they are going to write a shopping list, then write on the board […]
The expert game is a fantastic speaking activity that get your students chatting merrily to each other about things that are close to their hearts. It’s always gratifying to hear an English class abuzz with conversation and this activity never fails. Fold a piece of A4 paper in half so it can be propped up […]
Lying games work brilliantly in an English class because they push students to ask purposeful, well-formed questions. Meanwhile, the “liar” must rely on creativity—and sometimes heroic efforts—to keep a straight face. Before starting one of these games, get students thinking by asking them to discuss this question in pairs or small groups: How can you […]
The Categories Game is one of those essential no-prep ESL activities that every teacher should have ready. It’s simple, fun, adaptable, and ideal for filling a 20–40 minute slot in any lesson. I’ve played this game with students of all ages and levels, and it always gets them thinking, laughing, and speaking. This team-based vocabulary […]
ESL Taboo is a simplified version of the popular board game. It’s a lively crowd-pleaser and it’s perfect for reviewing and reactivating vocabulary, as well as forcing students into speaking freely without over-analysing their output. See below for some ready-made, printable Taboo cards. Also, check out picture taboo for a twist on this popular activity. […]
ESL board games are a handy way to get students using new language, and are especially useful for practising targeted grammar structures. Students get to ask and answer “realistic” questions and in the process get to know each other a little better, hopefully leading to higher quality interactions and increased speaking opportunities. In fact, some […]
Sadly, Pass the Bomb has been discontinued, but in its place has appeared the perfect replacement Ka-blab! Ka-blab is an exciting vocabulary game that is perfect for ESL learners of all ages and levels. How to Play Ka-blab Ka-blab is a simple game that is easy to learn and play. The game comes with a […]
ESL Jeopardy is a version of the popular board game. It’s a fun and easy to play quiz game, and it’s great for reviewing vocabulary and certain grammar forms. It ranks alongside Taboo as one of the most played games in the TEFL classroom. It’s a great way to round off the week or to […]
