Description Groups

Split the class up into small groups, and ask them to secretly elect one member. Supply each group with a very large piece of paper, and several differently coloured pens. Then ask the students to describe the elected member within the group by writing down adjectives on the paper. Firstly ask the group to describe the elected child physically, using just one colour of pen. Then get the group to ask the elected student questions about themselves in English. Ask them to record the answers in different colours – for example, ‘likes’ in green ink, and ‘dislikes’ in red.

Next, ask the groups to come to the front of the classroom one by one. Pin up their large piece of paper, and ask the rest of the class to guess whom the group have been describing. If time allows, the class can ask the elected members questions about what has been recorded. For example, if it has been written that the elected member dislikes slugs, ask why, and then ask the rest of the class to raise their hands if they agree or disagree. This exercise also has strong benefits regarding student bonding.

By Joanne Elliott