As the annual language test approaches, helping English learners (ELs) build confidence in speaking is essential. Here are five actionable moves to get students talking and practicing their language skills in meaningful, low-pressure ways:
1. Interactive Question Sheets
This can be done as a pre-reading activity, or a pre-assessment activity. Hand out small sheets of paper with questions printed on them. Students write the name of the person they ask the question to and record their answers. Then, have them share what someone else said about the question in front of the class. This encourages active listening, builds vocabulary, and helps them practice reporting speech. Click here to see an example.
2. Pair and Share Prompts
Use conversation prompts like “What’s your favorite memory?” or “If you could visit any country, where would you go?” Pair students and give them 2-3 minutes to share their answers with each other. Rotate partners to increase exposure to different speaking styles and accents.
3. Short Presentations
Here's a fact: people LOVE to talk about themselves. Give them 10 minutes to prepare, and have them talk for 30 seconds in front of the class about how they can relate to a class topic. You would be surprised how much they talk if you have them structure!
4. Sentence Starters for Small Group Discussions
Provide sentence starters such as, “I think...,” “I agree because...,” or “One example is...” Use these to structure discussions around a simple topic, like “What makes a good friend?” This scaffolds language use and builds fluency in conversation.
5. Mini Debates with Visuals
Show a picture or short video clip and have students debate a fun topic like “Cats or dogs: which is the better pet?” Assign them to opposing sides, give time to brainstorm ideas, and encourage them to use persuasive language.
Why These Moves Work for English Learners
Each of these activities helps ELs practice essential skills for the annual language test, such as speaking, listening, and organizing ideas. By creating opportunities for structured conversations, you not only prepare your students for the test but also help them gain confidence in their communication abilities.
Which one will you try first? Let me know in the comments!
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