Activity 1: “Two Truths and a Lie”
Two Truths and a Lie is a classic icebreaker activity that encourages ESL learners to practice speaking while getting to know their classmates. In this activity, each student takes turns sharing three statements about themselves: two true statements and one false statement. The rest of the class listens and tries to guess which statement is the lie. After each student has shared, the class discusses their guesses and the student reveals the lie.
This activity benefits ESL learners in multiple ways. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for students to engage in conversation and practice speaking skills in a relaxed and non-threatening environment. They can use their existing vocabulary and sentence structures to express themselves. Additionally, the activity promotes active listening as students carefully consider the statements and make educated guesses. It also encourages critical thinking as students analyze the statements and evaluate their credibility. Moreover, the activity helps foster a sense of community within the classroom as students learn more about each other and build connections. Overall, “Two Truths and a Lie” enhances both communication skills and social interaction among ESL learners.
Activity 2: “Picture Prompt Discussions”
Picture Prompt Discussions are an engaging activity that encourages ESL learners to express their thoughts and ideas based on visual stimuli. For this activity, provide each student with a picture or a series of pictures, and ask them to describe what they see, share their opinions, or create a story around the images. Students can take turns presenting their pictures to the class and initiating a discussion. The rest of the students can ask questions, make comments, or express their own perspectives related to the images.
This activity is highly beneficial for ESL learners as it enhances their speaking skills in various aspects. Firstly, it promotes fluency and vocabulary development as students describe the visual elements and articulate their thoughts. They can practice using adjectives, prepositions, and descriptive language to communicate effectively. Secondly, Picture Prompt Discussions encourage critical thinking as students analyze the images and formulate their opinions or stories. They learn to support their ideas with reasoning and evidence. Furthermore, this activity nurtures creativity and imagination as students construct narratives or interpret the pictures in unique ways. It also fosters active listening and respectful communication as students engage in dialogues, exchange ideas, and respond to their peers’ contributions. Picture Prompt Discussions provide a rich and dynamic speaking experience for ESL learners while allowing them to explore their creativity and broaden their perspectives.
Activity 3: “Debate and Discuss”
Debate and Discuss is an activity that encourages ESL learners to engage in structured conversations, express their opinions, and support their arguments. Select a thought-provoking topic relevant to the learners’ interests or the curriculum and divide the class into two groups: one representing the affirmative side and the other representing the negative side. Each group will have time to prepare their arguments and gather supporting evidence. Once prepared, the groups take turns presenting their viewpoints, countering each other’s arguments, and engaging in a respectful debate. The activity concludes with a class discussion, where students can express their own opinions, reflect on the arguments presented, and share their thoughts. Check here for some great communication esl questions you can practice in your classroom.
This activity has numerous benefits for ESL learners. Firstly, it improves their speaking skills by providing a platform for structured and extended discourse. Students practice presenting their ideas clearly, organizing their thoughts, and using persuasive language to convince others. Secondly, the activity enhances critical thinking and reasoning abilities as students analyze the topic, evaluate evidence, and develop logical arguments. They learn to consider multiple perspectives and engage in constructive debates. Moreover, Debate and Discuss fosters active listening skills as students pay attention to opposing viewpoints and formulate effective responses. It also promotes cultural awareness and empathy as students explore different opinions and respect diverse viewpoints. By engaging in debates, ESL learners develop their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and ability to engage in respectful discussions.
Activity 4: “Role-Play Interviews”
Role-Play Interviews are interactive activities that allow ESL learners to practice their speaking skills in a simulated real-life scenario. Divide the class into pairs, and assign each pair a specific role, such as an interviewer and an interviewee. Provide a list of interview questions or a scenario related to a job interview, a college admission interview, or a news interview. Students take turns playing each role and engage in the interview, using their creativity to respond to questions and demonstrate their communication skills. After the role-play, the pairs can provide feedback to each other, discussing strengths and areas for improvement.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it provides a practical application of language skills by simulating authentic speaking situations. Students practice using appropriate vocabulary, grammar structures, and professional or formal language registers. They also gain confidence in speaking fluently and spontaneously. Secondly, Role-Play Interviews enhance interpersonal and communication skills. By taking on different roles, students learn to adapt their language and demeanor to suit different contexts and audiences. They also develop active listening skills as they respond to questions and engage in meaningful dialogue. Furthermore, the activity fosters empathy and cultural understanding as students step into the shoes of others and experience different perspectives. It encourages teamwork and collaboration as students provide feedback and support each other’s learning. Overall, Role-Play Interviews help ESL learners build confidence, improve their language proficiency, and prepare for real-life communication scenarios.
Activity 5: “Descriptive Presentations”
Descriptive Presentations allow ESL learners to practice their speaking skills while sharpening their ability to describe objects, places, or experiences in detail. Assign each student a specific topic, such as their favorite vacation destination, a memorable childhood event, or an object of personal significance. Students prepare short presentations where they describe their chosen topic, utilizing sensory details, vivid language, and clear organization. They can use visual aids, props, or slides to enhance their presentations. After each presentation, the class can engage in a Q&A session, asking questions to further explore the topic.
This activity offers several advantages to ESL learners. Firstly, it enhances vocabulary acquisition and usage as students search for appropriate words and expressions to vividly describe their topics. They learn to use adjectives, adverbs, and figurative language to engage their audience. Secondly, Descriptive Presentations promote organization and coherence in speech as students structure their ideas and develop a logical flow. They learn to use transition words and phrases to guide their audience through the presentation. Additionally, this activity develops confidence in public speaking as students practice delivering information in a clear and engaging manner. It also cultivates active listening skills as the audience pays attention, asks questions, and provides feedback. Moreover, Descriptive Presentations encourage cultural sharing as students talk about their personal experiences or share insights about different places or objects. By honing their descriptive skills, ESL learners become more effective communicators capable of engaging their audience and conveying their ideas in a compelling manner.
Activity 6: “Picture Storytelling”
Picture Storytelling is an interactive activity that encourages ESL learners to create narratives based on visual stimuli. Provide each student with a series of images that tell a story, or ask them to bring their own pictures. Students take turns presenting their pictures and using their imagination to construct a story around the images. They can incorporate characters, settings, conflicts, and resolutions. The rest of the class listens attentively and can ask questions or make comments about the story after each presentation.
This activity offers multiple benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it stimulates creativity and imagination as students build narratives using visual cues. They learn to think critically and develop characters and plotlines. Secondly, Picture Storytelling enhances verbal communication skills as students practice expressing their ideas in a clear and coherent manner. They learn to
use descriptive language, dialogue, and narrative structures to engage their audience. Additionally, this activity fosters active listening skills as students pay attention to the presentations and follow the storylines. They can analyze the connections between the images and the story, make predictions, and ask relevant questions. Moreover, Picture Storytelling promotes cultural awareness and empathy as students share stories from their own cultural backgrounds or explore different perspectives through the narratives. It also encourages collaboration and social interaction as students engage in discussions and provide feedback on each other’s stories. By participating in Picture Storytelling, ESL learners develop their storytelling abilities, expand their vocabulary, enhance their speaking fluency, and nurture their creativity.
Activity 7: “Information Gap”
The Information Gap activity is designed to encourage ESL learners to practice their speaking skills while engaging in a communicative and interactive task. Divide the class into pairs or small groups and provide each group with slightly different sets of information related to a specific topic. The information could be in the form of pictures, texts, or charts. Each group member has a piece of the puzzle, and their goal is to communicate effectively with their groupmates to fill in the missing information. They must ask questions, provide explanations, and collaborate to gather the complete set of information.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it promotes meaningful communication as students actively engage in discussions and exchange information to complete the task. They practice asking and answering questions, seeking clarification, and expressing opinions. Secondly, the Information Gap activity enhances listening skills as students need to pay attention to their groupmates’ explanations and respond accordingly. They develop their ability to comprehend and process spoken information in real-time. Furthermore, this activity fosters collaboration and teamwork as students work together to solve the information gaps. They learn to negotiate and compromise, respecting different perspectives and sharing their own knowledge. Moreover, the activity reinforces vocabulary and content knowledge as students discuss and clarify the information they possess. It also cultivates problem-solving skills as students analyze the incomplete information and strategize to fill the gaps effectively. Overall, the Information Gap activity provides a dynamic and engaging speaking experience that enhances communication skills, collaboration, critical thinking, and listening comprehension for ESL learners.
Activity 8: “Cultural Exchange”
The Cultural Exchange activity encourages ESL learners to share aspects of their own culture while developing their speaking skills and cultural understanding. Divide the class into pairs or small groups, ensuring a mix of different cultural backgrounds. Assign each group a specific cultural topic, such as traditional festivals, cuisine, customs, or music. Each group member takes turns sharing information about their own culture related to the assigned topic. They can describe traditions, explain the significance of certain practices, or share personal experiences. The rest of the group listens actively, asks questions, and shows interest in the cultural exchange.
This activity offers multiple advantages to ESL learners. Firstly, it provides a platform for students to develop their speaking skills by discussing cultural topics that are personally meaningful to them. They practice using descriptive language, storytelling techniques, and cultural-specific vocabulary to convey information effectively. Secondly, the Cultural Exchange activity promotes cultural awareness and sensitivity as students learn about and appreciate different cultures. They develop empathy and respect for diverse perspectives and traditions. Additionally, this activity enhances listening skills as students actively engage in discussions, ask relevant questions, and seek clarification about cultural practices they might be unfamiliar with. It also encourages curiosity and open-mindedness as students explore new cultural information and perspectives. Moreover, the Cultural Exchange activity fosters a sense of community and inclusivity within the classroom as students celebrate and learn from each other’s cultures. By participating in this activity, ESL learners expand their cultural knowledge, improve their communication skills, and cultivate intercultural competence.
Activity 9: “News Reporting”
The News Reporting activity engages ESL learners in practicing their speaking skills while developing their ability to report information in a concise and organized manner. Assign each student or pair of students a current news article or headline related to a topic of interest. Students take on the role of news reporters and present a summary of the news to the class. They should include key information such as who, what, when, where, why, and how. They can also provide their opinions or perspectives on the news story. After each presentation, encourage class discussions and allow students to ask questions or share their thoughts on the news topic.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it improves their speaking fluency as they practice delivering information in a structured and coherent manner. They learn to use appropriate vocabulary, factual language, and clear explanations. Secondly, the News Reporting activity enhances listening skills as students pay attention to their peers’ presentations and comprehend the information being shared. They develop their ability to extract important details from oral communication. Additionally, this activity promotes critical thinking as students analyze news stories, evaluate the reliability of information, and form their opinions. It also encourages cross-cultural awareness as students explore news from different parts of the world and consider various perspectives. Moreover, the News Reporting activity fosters media literacy as students learn to critically consume and present news in a responsible manner. By engaging in this activity, ESL learners enhance their speaking skills, develop their ability to summarize information, and become more informed and engaged global citizens.
Activity 10: “Problem-solving Discussions”
Problem-solving Discussions provide ESL learners with opportunities to practice their speaking skills while developing their critical thinking and collaborative abilities. Present a real-life or hypothetical problem to the class, such as an environmental issue, a social challenge, or a moral dilemma. Divide the students into small groups and instruct them to discuss possible solutions or approaches to the problem. Each group member should contribute their ideas, provide reasoning, and engage in constructive dialogue to reach a consensus or develop a plan of action. After the discussions, groups can share their findings and engage in a class-wide discussion to compare approaches and evaluate the effectiveness of different solutions.
This activity offers several advantages to ESL learners. Firstly, it promotes the development of speaking skills as students practice expressing their ideas, giving reasons, and engaging in meaningful discussions. They learn to present their opinions, negotiate, and seek consensus. Secondly, the Problem-solving Discussions activity enhances critical thinking skills as students analyze complex problems, evaluate different perspectives, and consider the consequences of their proposed solutions. They develop their ability to think creatively, identify potential challenges, and think systematically. Furthermore, this activity fosters collaboration and teamwork as students work together to find common ground and develop effective strategies. They learn to listen actively, respect diverse opinions, and build upon each other’s ideas. Moreover, the Problem-solving Discussions activity cultivates empathy and global awareness as students explore real-life challenges faced by individuals or communities worldwide. It encourages them to consider ethical implications and develop solutions that are socially responsible. By participating in this activity, ESL learners refine their speaking skills, expand their critical thinking abilities, and become more effective problem solvers and team players.
Activity 11: “Role-Play Situations”
Role-Play Situations provide ESL learners with opportunities to practice their speaking skills in simulated real-life scenarios. Select a variety of situations relevant to their daily lives, such as ordering food at a restaurant, making travel arrangements, resolving conflicts, or participating in a job interview. Assign each student or pair of students a role and provide them with a brief description of the situation and their role’s objectives and characteristics. Students then engage in role-playing, improvising dialogues and actions based on their assigned roles. After each role-play, allow time for feedback and reflection, where students can discuss the challenges they faced, strengths they exhibited, and areas for improvement.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it provides a practical application of language skills in realistic contexts. Students practice using appropriate vocabulary, expressions, and social conventions to navigate different situations. They learn to adapt their language register and demeanor to suit specific roles and social interactions. Secondly, Role-Play Situations enhance communication skills as students practice active listening, turn-taking, and responding appropriately to verbal and non-verbal cues. They develop their ability to ask questions, seek clarification, and express their needs or opinions. Furthermore, this activity promotes confidence-building as students take on different roles and engage in simulated conversations. It allows them to experiment with language and social interactions in a supportive and low-stakes environment. Moreover, Role-Play Situations encourage empathy and cultural understanding as students step into the shoes of others and experience different perspectives. They develop a deeper appreciation for diverse backgrounds and develop their ability to communicate effectively with people from different cultures. By engaging in role-playing, ESL learners refine their speaking skills, boost their confidence, and enhance their intercultural competence.
Activity 12: “Topic Debates”
Topic Debates are engaging activities that encourage ESL learners to express their opinions, present arguments, and engage in structured debates. Select a debatable topic relevant to the learners’ interests or the curriculum, such as the impact of technology on society, the importance of physical education in schools, or the benefits and drawbacks of social media. Divide the class into teams representing different sides of the argument, and provide time for research and preparation. Each team then takes turns presenting their arguments and countering the opposing team’s points. Encourage students to use persuasive language, evidence, and logical reasoning to support their positions. The activity concludes with a class discussion, where students can share their personal opinions and reflections on the debated topic.
This activity offers numerous benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it improves their speaking skills by providing a platform for structured and extended discourse. Students practice presenting their ideas clearly, organizing their thoughts, and using persuasive language to convince others. Secondly, the Topic Debates activity enhances critical thinking and reasoning abilities as students analyze the topic, evaluate evidence, and develop logical arguments. They learn to consider multiple perspectives, anticipate counterarguments, and respond effectively. Furthermore, this activity cultivates active listening skills as students pay attention to opposing viewpoints, evaluate the strength of arguments, and formulate effective responses. It also promotes cultural awareness and empathy as students explore different opinions and respect diverse viewpoints. Moreover, the Topic Debates activity helps ESL learners develop their research skills as they gather information and evidence to support their arguments. They learn to critically evaluate sources and present well-rounded perspectives. By engaging in debates, ESL learners develop their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and ability to engage in respectful discussions.
Activity 13: “Interview a Celebrity”
“Interview a Celebrity” is a creative and engaging activity that allows ESL learners to practice their speaking skills while developing their imagination and critical thinking abilities. Divide the class into pairs, and assign each pair a famous celebrity or historical figure. Each pair then conducts an interview with their assigned celebrity, taking turns playing the roles of the interviewer and the celebrity. The interviewer asks questions about the celebrity’s life, career, achievements, or personal experiences, while the celebrity responds in character. The pairs can use their research and imagination to create a dialogue that reflects the personality and background of the celebrity. After the interviews, encourage students to share their experiences and insights with the class.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it enhances speaking fluency as students engage in dynamic and interactive conversations. They practice formulating questions, responding spontaneously, and expressing themselves clearly and coherently. Secondly, “Interview a Celebrity” fosters creativity and imagination as students step into the shoes of a famous personality and create a dialogue based on their research and understanding. They develop their ability to think on their feet, adapt to different roles, and use appropriate language and tone. Additionally, this activity promotes cultural knowledge as students research and learn about various celebrities or historical figures from different backgrounds and time periods. It encourages them to consider the impact and contributions of these individuals. Moreover, “Interview a Celebrity” cultivates active listening skills as students pay attention to their partner’s responses and adapt their questions accordingly. They learn to think critically, ask follow-up questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. By participating in this activity, ESL learners improve their speaking fluency, develop their research skills, and gain a deeper understanding of different personalities and historical figures.
Activity 14: “Problem-solving Role Play”
The “Problem-solving Role Play” activity provides ESL learners with a practical and engaging way to practice their speaking skills while honing their problem-solving and negotiation abilities. Create scenarios that involve common problems or conflicts that individuals may encounter in daily life, such as resolving a dispute with a roommate, negotiating a price with a seller, or finding a compromise in a group project. Divide the class into pairs or small groups, and assign each group a different scenario. Students take on different roles and engage in role-playing, working together to find solutions and resolve the problem presented in the scenario. After the role play, allow time for reflection and discussion, where students can share their experiences, strategies used, and lessons learned.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it provides a practical application of language skills in real-life situations. Students practice using appropriate language registers, negotiation strategies, and problem-solving techniques to effectively communicate and resolve conflicts. Secondly, the “Problem-solving Role Play” activity enhances critical thinking skills as students analyze the scenario, consider different perspectives, and develop creative solutions. They learn to think on their feet, adapt to unexpected situations, and evaluate the consequences of their actions. Furthermore, this activity promotes collaboration and teamwork as students work together to find common ground, listen to each other’s viewpoints, and reach consensus. They develop their ability to empathize, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships. Moreover, the “Problem-solving Role Play” activity fosters confidence-building as students step into different roles and engage in simulated conversations. It allows them to practice assertiveness, active listening, and respectful communication. By participating in this activity, ESL learners refine their speaking skills, develop their problem-solving abilities, and become more effective communicators in real-life situations.
Activity 15: “Just a Minute”
“Just a Minute” is a fast-paced and engaging activity that challenges ESL learners to think quickly and speak fluently on a given topic. Choose a variety of interesting and thought-provoking topics, such as favorite hobbies, memorable vacations, or current events. Set a timer for one minute, and each student takes turns speaking on the given topic for a full minute without hesitation, repetition, or deviation. Encourage students to be as expressive and detailed as possible within the given time limit. After each round, allow time for feedback and discussion, where students can share their thoughts and reflections on the activity.
This activity offers several benefits to ESL learners. Firstly, it improves speaking fluency as students practice speaking spontaneously and coherently under time pressure. They learn to organize their thoughts quickly and deliver information in a concise and engaging manner. Secondly, the “Just a Minute” activity enhances vocabulary and language usage as students search for appropriate words and expressions to describe their topic within the time limit. They develop their ability to think on their feet and access their linguistic resources effectively. Furthermore, this activity fosters confidence-building as students challenge themselves to speak for a full minute without hesitation. It helps overcome the fear of making mistakes and encourages risk-taking in language production. Moreover, the “Just a Minute” activity cultivates active listening skills as students pay attention to their peers’ speeches, evaluate the coherence and fluency of their delivery, and provide constructive feedback. It also encourages critical thinking as students analyze the topics, generate ideas, and structure their speeches within the given time frame. By participating in this activity, ESL learners refine their speaking skills, boost their confidence, and enhance their ability to think quickly and express themselves fluently.
Conclusion
These 15 speaking activities provide ESL learners with diverse opportunities to practice and improve their speaking skills in a fun and interactive manner. Each activity focuses on different aspects of communication, such as fluency, vocabulary, critical thinking, cultural understanding, and collaboration. By incorporating these activities into the ESL classroom, teachers can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that nurtures students’ confidence, promotes language proficiency, and develops essential communication skills for their future success.
