My students need fun, engaging materials, like boardgames (Mastermind and Smart Mouth), a brainteaser puzzle, and a hangman game to help them see that learning languages doesn't have to be all book work. A variety of snacks, like candy and chips, and syntax go perfectly together!
I have the greatest students in the world! They are hardworking, intelligent, and hold high standards for themselves. I ask a lot of them, though. As ESL students, many of their classroom assignments consist of writing essays, learning vocabulary, and strengthening their English language skills.
This is the first experience I've had teaching students whose first language is not English, and I have fallen in love with them!
They are so polite and willing to work -- a far cry from some of the students I've had in the past. They understand that they have to work especially hard to compete with their monolingual peers, and they come to class every day willing to write, edit, and rewrite. I have one student who never fails to say, "Okay, thank you!" when I assign a new project. Basically, I have the greatest kids ever.
My Project
Because my students work hard from Monday through Thursday, Friday is the designated game day in my classroom. This is no blow-off day, though! We gather into groups and play word games (Apples to Apples Junior and Scattergories are big hits). Many times a question that they are unable to answer will lead to a class discussion. I like to give Fridays a very "homey" feel by bringing in cookies or other treats to snack on while they play. I am pretty sure that I look forward to Fun Fridays as much, if nor more, than they do!
My students need snacks and fun, engaging materials, such as boardgames like Mastermind and Smart Mouth, a brainteaser puzzle, and a hangman game to help them see that learning languages doesn't have to be all book work.
The few board games that we do have are getting a bit worn, as is my wallet from continuously providing snacks. I want them to associate word games with the fun that they have with their classmates and the pride they feel at answering a hard question. And while food isn't necessary, it definitely contributes to the happy atmosphere of our classroom.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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