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TeachingEnglish Young Learners Activity Book
Introduction
A system that we have observed in primary
classes involves dividing the class into small
groups (4–6 children per group), and using
a reward point system. The groups can be
changed regularly, once a month for example,
and different strategies can be used to form
the groups, with the teachers either choosing
the groups or making a random selection, or
children choosing their own groups. Children
then earn points for their group, rather than
rewards for themselves. Points are given for
performing well in activities, for good behaviour
in class, for completing homework, answering
questions in class, and classroom management,
such as finding material quickly. This reward
system encourages collective class responsibility.
Competition
Some of the activities encourage both
individual and group competition, with a
‘winner’ at the end. While a certain amount
of competition can be healthy, the same
potential difficulties exist as with using rewards.
Competition can push some children to perform
better, but it can be de-motivating for others.
We suggest a limited use of competition in
activities and a preference for collective
responsibility whereby a child wins for their
group, rather than for themselves.
Concluding Comments
We have had great fun putting this book
together and learnt a lot of new approaches
and ideas for teaching English to young
learners. We hope that in using the book you
will also have fun and learn, and that your
children will too!
We would love to hear from you about your
experiences in using these activities and any
changes you make to meet your children’s
needs or that of the context in which you work.
Send your thoughts and ideas to lss_activities@
aston.ac.uk
References
English for Primary Teachers (Resource Books
for Teachers) by Mary Slattery and Jane Willis
(24 May 2001) Oxford OUP
6
© British Council 2012