successful speaking activity

What is a successful speaking activity?

In the introduction to her book “Discussions and More (2015)”, Professor Penny Ur describes a successful speaking activity as one where most of the students get the opportunity to speak as much as possible. It is an activity that motivates students to speak, listen to his/her partner, and respond in the target language. Therefore, it is NOT a frontal activity when only one student can answer at a time. It should NOT be an activity based on non-verbal communication or taken up by teacher talk.

Next

Click on each headline to learn more

Give instructions BEFORE getting into groups/pairs and before handing out the materials

Give instructions in L1, if necessary

Let students try out the activity for a short time before actually delving deeply into it

Set a routine in advance for getting into groups/pairs

Guide students on discussion skills

Back