6: Provide a demonstration of the language and game/activity - Top 10 tips for teaching english conversation

49 ESL Conversation Games & Activities - Jackie Bolen 2020

6: Provide a demonstration of the language and game/activity
Top 10 tips for teaching english conversation

A normal way that people learn a language is by first “seeing” and then “doing.” Demonstrate the target language to students in various ways such as using a video clip from a movie, song, podcast, or the MP3 listening files and reading exercises that are in your textbook. Of course, the teacher can also provide an example for students but it's good for them to hear different genders, accents, and levels of English speakers so be sure to change it up from time to time. Keep in mind that there are many English speakers in the world who speak English as their second, third or fourth language so be sure to use some of these examples as well.

Another situation in which to provide a demonstration for students is when setting up an activity or game. Especially if students are beginners, it will be extremely difficult for them to understand instructions without seeing a demonstration of them as well. I've found that even with my advanced classes, it is helpful to provide a demonstration because if I don't, my students often end up doing something that I don't want them to be doing. And of course, it's totally my fault!