[clivehawkins]

If you have access to a video camera you can have a lot of fun with them preparing an advert for their city, aimed at tourists. They prepare the script for the film, bring in some images \ objects to use and obviously get into character themselves. One group of mine did it with an interviewer 'walking the streets' and asking people what they loved about the city. Another group did it as short monologues from each member of the group, each in a different situation (one at the beach, one in the historical centre, one in the port etc etc) basically give them some ideas but let them decide for themselves what they want to do.

I've done it a few times and they usually end up as humorous pieces - they loved playing up to the camera. It's great for language of suggestion and advice, imperatives and conditionals.

Hope that helps.

[Davemg21]

Most people like to talk about themselves......ask students questions that make them feel good such as...

1. What was the best part of today?
2. What makes you smile?
3. Talk about your best friend.
4. Define success in your own terms.
5. What are your short/long-term goals?

etc....

It's the teacher's responsibility to get the ball rollin' in those "silent, awkward moments". So have fun, be creative and remember that young people teach us teachers the importance of Change, creation and keeping things fresh. That is their talent.

Good luck!
Dave

[Sportrider1974]

I constantly struggle with this same problem. I teach a group of low/mid-level middle school kids in Korea. But that's a whole different problem!

I also teach a group of adults and this worked well with them.

I put them in groups of 4 (8 students, two groups). I gave each group a set of cards I made. Each card had a different situation on it. The cards are face down in a pile and each student has to select one card. The student reads the card and has to tell the group what they would do in that situation. I call the game "What if...". The crazier and silly you make the situations, the more they will like it. For example: "What if...your dad ran away from home to become a professional hip-hop dancer." or "What if...your mom came home with pink mohawk and a tattoo on her forehead." or "What if...you found a $1,000.00."

BTW: this isn't an original idea. I found it on the internet somewhere. Whoever came up with it, thanks!!!