ESL Oral English Practice Activities
1. Balloon Debate
Setup: 4-6 students each represent a character or profession.
Procedure: They are in a sinking hot air balloon and must convince the class why they should not be thrown out to save the others.
Doctor
"I save lives every day. In times of crisis, medical expertise is crucial."
Teacher
"I educate future generations. Without teachers, how will society progress?"
Scientist
"My research could solve climate change. I'm working on renewable energy solutions."
Farmer
"I grow food to feed people. Without farmers, there would be no food security."
2. 20 Questions
Setup: One student thinks of a person, place, or thing.
Procedure: Classmates ask yes/no questions to identify what the student is thinking of. Limited to 20 questions.
Suggested Questions:
- Is this person alive?
- Is this person male?
- Is this person from North America?
- Is this person an artist?
- Did this person live in the 20th century?
3. Taboo
Setup: Create cards with target words and "taboo" related words that cannot be used.
Procedure: Students must describe the target word without using the taboo words.
Target Word
Taboo 1
Taboo 2
Taboo 3
Taboo 4
4. Everyday Situations
Setup: Students work in pairs/groups to act out common scenarios.
Procedure: Each scenario has role cards with useful phrases and vocabulary for real-world interactions.
Role A: Customer
Useful Phrases:
- "I'd like to order..."
- "What do you recommend?"
- "Could I have the menu, please?"
- "I'll have the..."
- "How much is...?"
Your Tasks:
- Greet the waiter
- Ask for the menu
- Order a drink
- Order your meal
- Ask for the bill
Role B: Waiter
Useful Phrases:
- "Welcome to our restaurant!"
- "Would you like to order drinks first?"
- "Today's special is..."
- "Are you ready to order?"
- "How would you like your steak?"
Your Tasks:
- Welcome the customer
- Take drink orders
- Explain the specials
- Take food orders
- Bring the bill
5. Job Interview Simulation
Setup: Students pair up and use role cards with job descriptions and interview guidance.
Procedure: Take turns conducting mock interviews for different positions, practicing both interviewer and applicant roles.
Role: Interviewer
Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced software developer with strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of modern programming languages.
Key Questions to Ask:
Evaluation Points:
Role: Job Applicant
Preparation Notes:
Response Guidelines:
Key Vocabulary:
6. Topics in a Hat
Setup: Write various discussion topics on slips of paper and place them in a hat.
Procedure: Students draw topics and must speak about them for 1-2 minutes.
Draw a topic!