Icebreaker activities can help you build rapport and a sense of community in your classroom. However, it is important to know that not all ice breakers are suitable for English Learners. In this episode, I share a few of my tried and true ice breaker activities and things you want to keep in mind before planning your own icebreaker activities.
When planning icebreaker activities for English Learners, you want to make sure the activity does not require too much personal information that students may not be ready to share for personal or cultural reasons. The activity must also be the right proficiency for the students in your classroom and be age appropriate.
Ball toss is a go-to icebreaker activity that is great for beginners. It can be used as a get to know you activity and modified to be used throughout the school year. “Three things about me” is also great for beginners.
For intermediate and up, I recommend an activity called “concentric circles,” which allows one on one conversations and meeting new people and is good for teens and adults. Light Debate is another icebreaker activity that intermediate students really enjoy and it is great for practicing language.
What you will hear about Icebreaker Activities
- Why you should plan icebreaker activities for the beginning of the school year
- Things to consider when choosing icebreaker activities for English Learners
- Examples of 2 icebreaker activities that are suitable for beginners
- Activities you can use with your more advanced EL students
Resources
As mentioned in the episode, I am linking some useful resources!
- The ESL Teaching Roadmap – membership community for middle and high school ESL/ELL teachers. As a thank you for listening, use code ESLPODCAST for 10% off when you join.
- 25 Authentic Speaking Activities for Your ESL Classroom
- Simply Ieva ESL Teachers Pay Teachers Store
- Teachable Platform – Courses and Workshops
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join the Simply Ieva Facebook Group
You also might like
6 Icebreaker Activities For a Good Start of the Year blog post
Awesome First Week of School with your ESL Students
