How to use brain breaks in the classroom? Part 2

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Hey, teachers! 

In the previous digest, we discussed how to use brain breaks with the youngest students. Today is the time to work with the teens and adults. 

Those who work with this age group might think that it is boring and impossible because this is the age when people consider themselves too old for such entertainment. Of course, singing a song and performing certain movements at the same time is not for them. But both teenagers and adults are also tired and need to shift activities, rest and so on.

Alternatively, you can use games and tasks that require movement and at the same time help to revise or learn new material. Here are a few of our favourites:

Running dictation

What you need is to prepare a list of 8-10 words in English on the board or on the wall and to distribute the roles between the participants (runners and writers). At least 2 participants are required. If there is a larger number of students, divide them into teams of 2-3 students. The runner's task is to reach the list of words, memorize 1-2 words in the correct order, run to the writer and dictate these words to him. The task of the writer is to write down the words he heard as correctly as possible. Roles can be changed both after each round and after the game. This activity works well for memorizing vocabulary or grammar.

Gallery walk

This activity can be used to discuss different topics in English while moving.

Students work in pairs or groups of three. On the walls of the room, the teacher attaches worksheets with questions or situations for discussion. The students' task is to "visit" all the stations with questions and discuss them with a partner or in  small groups.

Mingling

Everyone knows this technique which aims not only to improve students' speaking skills or practice the material studied but also to change the variety of their activities because students move during this time.

All you need to do is prepare a list of questions for the students and ask them to interview everyone in the classroom. Alternatively, ask them to find 5 people with common interests: those who love horror movies, comedies, etc. Students not only communicate but also move which helps to relieve stress and relax.

Back to the board

It’s an interesting and fun method and game which is to the liking of both children and adults.

Divide the class into two or three small groups. Choose a participant from each group. He/ she sits down or stands with his /her back to the board, but facing his/her team. The teacher writes a word or phrase on the board, and each team's task is to explain the word or phrase to the participant sitting with their back to the board. The team that guesses the word first wins. After the first round of the game, you can choose a different player from each team to guess the word. So, the players move, while enjoying the gameplay and recycling the material.

Brain breaks are useful for everyone, both children and adults. They help to change the type of activity, distract, help to relax and perceive information better. With them, any material is easier and more interesting to learn. Have fun!


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