Dice Games for English Learners

Vocabulary Game for Young Learners

• This dice game teaches vocabulary by associating the words with actions. It is great for younger English learners because it allows them to get up and move around. As a more physical activity, this game works best with larger dice that are safe to toss around the classroom. Begin by dividing the students into two teams. A good way to do this is simply to divide the classroom in half. Students may stand, but should not leave their desks. Write the numbers one through six on the board, assigning a vocabulary word to each. Decide on and teach students a gesture for each word. For instance, act out the verb "to run" by running in place, or imitate a flying motion for the word "bird." Start the game by tossing the die on the floor. Students should call out the resulting number and proceed to act out the associated word. The first team to have all of its members miming the correct action wins a point. Choose a member of the winning team to throw the die next. Work in extra review by asking the team a question and giving the die to the first student to answer it correctly.

Sentence Game for Intermediate ESL Students

• This dice game can be adjusted to suit most ESL lessons at intermediate and advanced levels. It encourages speaking practice and is helpful for reviewing vocabulary. To prepare for the game, create a numbered list of vocabulary words. The number of dice needed depends on the number of words. Divide the students into groups of two or more. The first person rolls the dice and uses the list to find the number̵7;s corresponding vocabulary word. The student must correctly use the word in a sentence to continue the game. Another interesting version of the game assigns a question to each number. Students may ask their opponents the question or answer it themselves.

Discussion Game for Advanced ESL Students

• This game works to improve advanced ESL students̵7; free-talking skills. Work with students to create six diverse categories. Topics should be thought-provoking but also within the realm of the class̵7; ability. The purpose of the game is to help students become more comfortable with using previously learned grammar and vocabulary. This game works best in small groups and may or may not be scored. Each student will throw the die twice per turn. The first time is to select the category and the second is to determine how many sentences must be used to talk about the topic. If students need more structure, create six questions for each category. When a player roles the die for the second time, the number determines how many questions must be answered.