Pictionary, charades, and celebrity headsĪlways classic, these games are super versatile, let students practice specific vocabulary and expressions, and have the added bonus of encouraging a gleeful sort of atmosphere. The groups who identify the error win, while those who didn’t, lose their bet. Write an incorrect sentence on the board, adapting the gravity of the error for your class’s level, and ask each group to identify the error, write it down, and make a bet.

Explain that they are going to bet their money to try to win more (establish a minimum bet). Casinoĭivide students into groups and give each a budget of, say, 100€ of mythical money. The following are eleven classic games that can be adapted to suit different skill levels. This is not to say that you should convert your class into a permanent playpen, rather, that the addition of moments of play give contrast in class and allows students of all learning types to thrive. While it’s clear that children and beginners shine brighter when playing, it’s also true that adults and advanced learners enjoy competition and lighter moments in class. Quite the contrary, games are perfect for practicing vocabulary and targeting grammar thus increasing camaraderie through light competition, boosting energy levels, reducing stress, promoting problem-solving, and buying more focused lesson time later in the hour.

Despite what great Aunt Sylvie may think, play time in class is not “wasted” time. While their class time with you is just one component of their lives, it’s very likely an important one for them professionally and personally. Like you, your students have come to class carrying baggage from their day. And remember: Unless you’re teaching open heart surgery, sky-diving, or how to safely direct a space mission back to Earth, you can be sure that play is an entirely appropriate addition to your classroom! Why play? In fact, playing games increases motivation by helping students relax, open up, and get out of their heads while learning. But that doesn’t mean students shouldn’t have fun while doing it. “I hope my students’ eyes glaze over in class,” said no teacher, ever. “I really want to be bored witless,” said no student, ever.

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