‘Describe your favourite…’​activity

Where does it come from?

This activity is my personal invention but it is rather a combination of various similar activities
which I have ever encountered and that finally helped me come up with my own variation.

It comes from my real life observations that suggest learners are most likely to engage in
communication when it is ​connected to something important to them (either in a positively or
negative way).

Thus, this activity makes Ss forget about the language as a target but start using it as a
means to communicate what is important to them.

Where can it be used?

It is designed as both ​guided and independent practice activities (but it can also be used in a
different content or modified according to your needs)

How can it be modified?

Questionnaires can be used as guidance for Ss to prepare a presentation. Ss can also be
asked to produce an impromptu speech (with no preparation) being asked the questions
from the questionnaire. Various combinations may also be used (pairs, groups etc.).
Questions may be replaced with others, according to a teacher’s needs.

How much time does it take?

It should be done ​within guided and/or independent practice time (but the recommended
time is ​15-20 minutes​)

What is the purpose of the activity?

It is aimed to activate target ​vocabulary​through ​speaking​practice and ​repetition​.

What materials are needed?

Questionnaire handout, white/blackboard (or an overhead projector)

How does it work?

Ss’ are given a topic related to the main theme of the class. Examples:

● If the theme is about films or famous actors, they are, accordingly, given topics, such
as ‘​ Your favorite film/actor/actress​.
● If it is about sports, topics might be about ​favourite sports team/sportsmen
 ● Be it about music, then, respectively, the ​favourite singer/band​etc.

The teacher places ​key vocabulary on the board (or a projector) for Ss’ to refer to while
doing the activity. Questions to prepare answers to are also provided. Ss’ are given 2-5
minutes to ​
make notes​and prepare ​an outline​of their answers.

In addition, each student receives 3 copies of a handout to interview 3 other students.

As a guided practice activity

Each student gets interviewed 3 times and, in turn, interviews 3 other students. During the
interviews Ss are allowed to use their notes made previously as well as can use visual aids
on the board. After each interview they receive a filled questionnaire containing the
feedback. They can take a minute to prepare for the next interview but all interviews should
be finished within the time allotted.

As an independent practice activity

Ss’ do the same as previously but without using their notes and board assistance.

As a result, Ss’ have speaking practice, receive feedback and get the chance to improve
with minor assistance from the teacher.

Example questionnaire form

Student’s name:

The student provided a clear answer

Questions
(Yes/No)

Who is your favourite film actor/actress?

Tell about him/her (3-5 sentences)

What do you like about him/her?

(3-5 sentences)

What do you not like about him/her?

(3-5 sentences)

What would you say to him/her if you met

by chance? (1-3 sentences)