![Child's drawing of a strange creature eating cherries](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/56e417e7e321404618edcd31/9bcc033b-ddc9-4707-bdf1-d164ce02b08f/Imaginary+creature+-+listening+game+example.jpg)
‘It has a pointy nose… long legs… and spots. It has a short tail. It is ferocious… and likes to eat cherries!’
Imaginary animal: Describe an imaginary animal – invent some features but don’t have a specific picture in mind. Pupils listen carefully and draw their version of the animal. Have pupils compare their finished drawings with a partner (‘take turns to tell your partner about the details you included’). Avoid repeating your description – this will make them listen much more closely!
Reproduce it: Find a simple drawing or pattern. Describe it without showing it, and have pupils try to draw it based on your description. Give very clear instructions – the challenge is for pupils to reproduce the drawing as accurately as possible.
Group story: One person starts a story with a sentence, and each subsequent person adds a sentence to continue the story. Model this first, then play in trios. Vary the game by adding just single words instead of sentences.
Yes, and… (see Communication Games)
A game to help children practise giving compliments… plus an announcement!
An oracy game, a mental workout, and an opportunity to practise respectful challenge
Can your class come up with convincing definitions for the new words they invent?
A physical, fun game that can be played face-to-face or virtually
A quick, active game that helps pupils reflect on their own talk
A structure to allow all students to participate, even if sitting in a real circle isn’t an option right now.
Get students thinking and talking with a game that only takes moments to set up.
Seven quick activities to develop talk, listening and non-verbal communication
Ways to develop talking at a distance
Generating dialogue, comparing concepts, deepening understanding.
Simple-yet-effective techniques to get three year olds talking and keep them focused.