Teaching English Through Games

Language learning can be a hard work, especially if it is a foreign language. Big effort is required at every moment and step of learning, maybe for a longer period of time. Not every individual can learn a language at the same pace and time. Everyone learns at their own learning capability and pace. However, language teachers can actually enhance the outcomes by introducing language learning through games as it can help many learners to sustain their interest and work.

English as a second language is quite popular across the world and hence more learners are interested in enhancing their communication skills by learning English. Along with ELS grammar books, teachers also consider games to promote language learning. Games help teachers to develop contexts in which a language is meaningful and useful. Learners participating in the game must understand what others want to convey by saying or writing.  

Meaningfulness is quite important in language learning. The interpretation of meaningfulness means that the learner responds to the content in a definite way. If the content triggers emotions then it is clearly meaningful to them. Thus, the meaning of language they are learning will be vividly experienced and remembered.

Genevieve Roth had said: “Playing is a child’s natural way of learning.”

While adults have really forgotten what it’s like to play and have fun, children love to play. By looking at the playful children, one can easily realize that playing is the natural way of learning. Therefore, a game is not a child’s play, but a learning tool that can be used to teaching English learners at all ages.

ELI language games provide a safe opportunity to practice without a fear or being ridiculed. The competitive nature of many games can even provide a sense of accomplishment for many learners.

Alnur for Pedagogy promotes ELT learning in Israel and offers fun classes for effective learning.