ESL games can be tweaked just like recipes to fit the specific tastes and needs of students. Gosia from Lesson Plans Digger came up with a fun game that's inspired by classics like Scattegories and Family Feud.

Overview:

This game is designed for high school students and adults. It tests students on their English vocabulary and challenges them to come up with words or phrases for various categories in a limited time. The whole game takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but this can vary based on class size and skill level.

Materials:

For this game, you'll need some paper and pencils, enough for each group of students. A whiteboard and marker are handy but not essential. Most importantly, you'll need a timer to keep track of the time.

Playing the Game:

Start by thinking of four different categories. For example, you might choose things you do on a plane, foods you eat with your fingers, summer clothing items, and things you find in a living room. Break your class into pairs or small groups, and let them know they have only four minutes to think of at least four items that fit each category.

Start the timer. After the four minutes are up, score each team's answers. Teams get 10 points for unique items that no other group thought of, 5 points for items that more than one group listed, and 2 extra points for each item beyond the first four, as long as no other group has them.

You can change the categories and play as many rounds as you like. The group with the most points at the end is the winner.

This game is excellent for reviewing vocabulary based on different topics. If you're playing with more advanced students, you can make it even more fun by picking quirky categories, like bad habits or things you can sit on. It's an entertaining game that can either kick off or wrap up a lesson. Have fun with it!