As any language teacher knows only too well, verbs are a core aspect of helping students learn a new language. For TEFL teachers, the verb "to be" is one of the most important verbs which students must learn. Thankfully, there are a few simple exercises to help new EFL students get to grips with this key verb.
Help Beginner EFL Students Practise the Verb 'To Be'
An important part of learning any language involves understanding how to utilise commonly used verbs, such as the verb "to be." One very easy way to help students practise the verb "to be," as recommended by Global English, is a memory game. Ask around ten students to stand in a line at the front of the class room and state one fact about themselves, such as "I am nineteen." The other students have the challenge of writing down as many facts as they can remember, with the student who remembers the most facts being the winner. Depending on the level of ability, take marks off for mistakes such as incorrect pronunciation or grammar.
EFL Verb 'To Be' Exercise – 'Who am I?' Game
Another way to help students practise the verb 'to be' is the "Who am I?" game. On sticky labels, write names of international celebrities. Arrange the class in a circle, give each person a label to stick on their neighbour's forehead. Explain that they can ask, in turn, questions such as, "am I female?" or "am I young?" or "am I a singer?" The group can answer (or their neighbour) either, "yes, you are" or "no, you are not." The winner is the first student who is able to correctly guess their identity. Key vocabulary or basic phrases should be displayed on the board to help weaker students.
TEFL Verb Practise Lesson Exercise
A third approach to helping EFL students practise the verb "to be" involves dividing the class into pairs. Next, get them to ask three questions to their partner, "Who are you?" "How old are you?" and "Where are you from?" Explain that they need to remember the answers and vice versa. Then ask volunteers to feedback and introduce their partner to the class.
As highlighted above, teaching students key verbs is a core part of any EFL course. Simple exercises may be used to make the verb "to be" easier to remember, such as the "Who Am I?" game, getting to know your pair and memory game.
Source:
Global English TEFL Coursework
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Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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