Hi and Hello!
We’re excited to share some fantastic ways to use the small talk method to develop language skills in children. This engaging approach involves brief, focused conversations that help reinforce vocabulary, phrases, and overall language ability.
What is Small Talk?
Small talk involves short, interactive exchanges that don’t take up the whole class. It’s a great way to show kids how much they already know and highlight areas they need to revisit.
Here are a few of the best small talk activities to use in your classroom:
- A Ball, a Soft Toy – Something to Throw
Use a soft object to toss between students while asking questions or reviewing vocabulary. It keeps them engaged and even helps with motor coordination. Add a challenge by ensuring the toy doesn’t touch the ground—this promotes teamwork and keeps the activity fun.
- 3 Things from a Backpack
Students quickly pull three random items from their backpacks and can only put them back by answering a question correctly. This game is highly engaging and taps into children’s love for competition and gamification.
- Hot Chairs
Set up a circle of chairs, each with a flashcard. Students walk around the chairs to music, and when it stops, they must quickly sit down and name the picture or use the word in a sentence to keep their seat. This activity is full of energy and keeps the kids focused.
- Drawing – Questions and Names
Kids love drawing cards with questions or names. This activity keeps them on their toes, listening closely because they never know who or what’s next. Drawing questions or picking who answers makes it more exciting.
- Find Your Pair – Who Has…?
Children draw flashcards and must find their matching pair by asking questions like “Who has…?” This game ensures everyone participates and gets valuable practice in sentence formation and reading.
Games are essential in teaching children, making learning fun and effective. Our ENmaven English Worksheets and Lesson Plans For Teachers also incorporate these types of activities to enhance language learning in the classroom. We encourage you to try these activities and watch how small talk can make a big difference in your students’ language skills.