Easy Icebreaker Games for ESL Students
Starting a new class can be a bit nerve-wracking for anyone, but it’s especially true for ESL (English as a Second Language) students. Many of them are adjusting to a new language and culture while trying to make new friends. As a teacher, you can make this transition smoother with fun icebreaker games that create a welcoming environment. Here’s a list of easy icebreaker games that will help ESL students get to know each other and start building connections right away.
1. Find Someone Who…
How to Play: Prepare a list of statements like “Find someone who has a pet,” “Find someone who likes spicy food,” or “Find someone who plays soccer.” Students must walk around the room, asking each other questions to find a match for each statement.
Why It Works: This game gets students moving and talking with multiple classmates, making it perfect for breaking down initial barriers. It also helps with practicing question formation and listening comprehension.
Example Statements:
- “Find someone who has travelled to more than 3 countries.”
- “Find someone who plays a musical instrument.”
- “Find someone who has a unique hobby.”
2. Would You Rather?
How to Play: Write a series of “Would you rather” questions on cards or a whiteboard (e.g., “Would you rather live in the mountains or by the sea?”). Students take turns choosing a question and sharing their answer with the class or in pairs.
Why It Works: This game is a great way for students to express their preferences and opinions in English. It’s low-pressure because there’s no right or wrong answer, just personal choice. Plus, it’s a fun way to discover common interests!
Example Questions:
- “Would you rather eat only pizza or only ice cream for the rest of your life?”
- “Would you rather have the ability to fly or to become invisible?”
- “Would you rather travel to the past or the future?”
3. Name Chain
How to Play: The first student says their name and one thing they like (e.g., “My name is Maria, and I like ice cream”). The next student repeats the previous name and item and then adds their own. This continues around the circle, with each student adding their name and preference to the chain.
Why It Works: This game helps students learn each other’s names while practicing memory and listening skills. It’s a fantastic warm-up activity that also encourages shy students to speak up.
Example Chain:
- Student 1: “My name is Alex, and I like football.”
- Student 2: “This is Alex who likes football, and I’m Lucy, and I like reading.”
- Student 3: “This is Alex who likes football, Lucy who likes reading, and I’m David, and I like cooking.”
4. Interview and Introduce
How to Play: Pair up students and give them a few minutes to interview each other with questions like “Where are you from?” or “What’s your favourite hobby?” After the interview, each student introduces their partner to the class using the information they gathered.
Why It Works: This activity provides a structured way for students to practice asking and answering questions. It also helps students feel more comfortable speaking in front of the class by focusing on introducing someone else rather than themselves.
Example Questions for Interviews:
- “What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend?”
- “Why did you decide to learn English?”
- “Do you have any pets?”
5. Human Bingo
How to Play: Create bingo cards with different facts like “Has a birthday in July” or “Can play an instrument.” Students walk around and find classmates who match the descriptions, filling in their bingo cards as they go. The first student to complete a row or fill out the entire card wins.
Why It Works: Human Bingo encourages interaction and helps students learn more about each other’s backgrounds and interests. It’s a great way to break the ice and help students discover common ground.
Example Bingo Items:
- “Has a sibling.”
- “Loves pizza.”
- “Has visited more than three countries.”
- “Can sing a song in English.”
6. Alphabet Introductions
How to Play: Have each student introduce themselves with a word that starts with the same letter as their name (e.g., “I’m Elly, and I like elephants”). This is a great option for smaller classes or as a quick warm-up.
Why It Works: It’s a simple and effective way to start learning names and getting students to use their English vocabulary creatively. It’s also a great exercise for practicing pronunciation.
Example:
- “I’m James, and I like jogging.”
- “I’m Sophie, and I love sushi.”
Create a Welcoming Environment for ESL Students
These easy icebreaker games help ESL students get to know each other and provide valuable opportunities for practicing English in a relaxed and friendly setting. By using these level-adaptable activities, you can help students build confidence, make friends, and feel comfortable in their new language learning environment.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to give these icebreakers a try in your next ESL class and watch your students grow in confidence and connection!
