Wikipedia(1) defines ‘game’ as
a structured activity undertaken for enjoyment and sometimes used as an
educational tool. In this paper I am going to look at the use of games in the
classroom as an educational tool. I will look at why we might want to use games
and some of the advantages, how to use games and when to use them and finally a
few tips to consider when playing games.
Why use games?
There are many advantages to using games in the classroom while ESL Teaching and a lot of research has also been done in this area. It is important here
just to mention those who learn. Students can come from all different
backgrounds from young and old and each will also have different motivation for
learning. Whatever the reason they are in the classroom it is our job as a
teacher I believe to cultivate a climate where maximum learning can take place.
It is important that the teacher gathers as much information about the learner
so that effective planning can then take place and appropriate games then can
be selected. (Wright, Betteridge and
Buckly 1984)(2) believe
language learning can be hard work, it takes effort and that games help and
encourage many learners to sustain their interests and work. (Ersoz)(3) also agrees with this
that learning a language requires constant effort and can be tiring, so games
offer a distraction he outlines two reasons why games should be played in the
classroom; firstly that game’s are amusing and challenging are highly
motivating and secondly games allow meaningful use of language content. The Hindu online newspaper in an article
looking at ‘achieving communicative competence in English’ believes that games
are good because they involve active participation and that games can help students
in productive skills (speaking and writing) and in receptive skills (listening
and reading). As well as enthusiasm (Jane
Rauschenberg)(6)
believes games are good for recruitment,
retention, keeping student’s enthusiasm high. Learning another language
difficult but a game everyone likes to play. So a teacher can use a game to
teach a daunting topic like grammar. A good grammar game can help children not
only gain knowledge but be able to apply and use that learning. (Saricoban and Metin 2000)(7) authors of ‘Songs,
verse and games for teaching grammar’.
In summary (Robert J.
Marzano)(9) who has been involved in research on using games in the
classroom, has found that studies showed that using games to teach has led to a
20 percentile gain in student achievement.
When and how
to use games.
Choosing the right game is crucial. (Ayden Ersoz)(3) say’s that well
chosen games are invaluable as they can give students a break and at the same
time allow students to practice language skills. Games are highly motivating
since they are amusing and at the same time challenging. (Rauschenberg 2005) (6) believes
there are many different stages when to use games, during
the engage, or review or just to help students relax when you have finished a
major assessment.
Make sure there is a reason for playing. Make sure there is
an objective a purpose for playing. It is important to consider what do you
want students to achieve by playing. Teaching time is precious so it is
important that you use all your time in classroom wisely. So selecting an
appropriate game is important.
(Hon Lin)(8) suggests
thinking about the following questions when selecting a game
1.
Which skills do the games practice?
2.
What type of game is it and what is its purpose?
3.
Does the game require maximum involvement by the
students?
4.
Do the students like it?
Tips for using
Games in the classroom.
I personally think and from my own experience think that the
use of games in the classroom are an amazing educational tool if used
correctly. I would like to recommend some tips to consider before playing
games. These points will help you maximize learning through the use of games in
your classroom. (These are not in any order) There are so many tips but these
are just a few.
1. Think about the objective of the game. What is your
reason for playing? What will your students benefit from playing.
2. Is the game fun? Is it relevant to the age group you are
teaching.
3. Make sure game involves all students. Maybe think about
dividing your group into smaller groups so that all can be involved.
4. Think about time. (Do you have enough time to play the
game, explain the game and then follow up. In (Marzono’s)(9)
research they found the most successful games were ones with follow up after)
5. What equipment do you need? What resources do you need to
use?
6. Give simple clear instructions. If the game is a
competition do not start until all are ready and understand what they have to
do.
7. Do you have space in your classroom. Does the game
involve moving round or working at tables. If you need students to move around
or carry equipment think about Health and safety.
7. Be creative and think about different ways you can adapt
a game to your target group.
8. Monitor the game. If you need to stop the game or give
more instructions or adapt the game then do not be afraid of jumping in if
needed. You want the students to get the most of the game.
9. Think about reward. What is the incentive for playing the
game?
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