- Don't say "We are going to play a game" -it is always OK for only under 11 years children. (for example: Fun activity).
You must explain the learning opportunity that the activity provides. Students need to understand that you are doing the activity for a reason. It could be for a vocabulary check or review, to warm them up to gt them to move and language at the same time, etc.
- An activity will only work well if it is explained carefully and clearly. Think about how you will explain the activity to your class when you are planning your lesson. Think about the vocabulary and language you will need to use. Rememer to repeat, rephrase and demonstrate when you are giving instructions.
- You may need to review some vocabulary or remind Students of what they studied the previous day if you are going to do a review activity. This will help to activate the Students' schemata.
- The teacher should take part by providing pre-prepared examples where relevant. For example, if the activity involves drawing, draw an example to show the Students and encourage them to try.
- After each activity, do a short feedback or follow-up to discuss what the Students have learned about each other, what was funny, how many words they could remember, what was reviewed, practiced, etc.
If you type 'ESL icebreakers' into an internet search engine you will find 100's of web pages of activities!