Learning Languages Through Play

Posted by Diane Farrug Apr 1, 2008

Bonjour! I'm tickled pink (or should I say "rose") to be the new Language Study Feature Writer here at Suite101. I can't wait to share my ongoing "Confessions and Adventures of a French Teacher." Check out my profile to learn more about me and my background.

Although I take the profession of foreign language education very seriously, I must admit that I have had colleagues accuse me of being all "fun and games." On a rare occasion when I complained about going to work one Monday morning, my husband retorted, "Why? You just play all day."

Fun and games? Play? I feign extreme offense. After all, my students strive to use the target language to listen, speak, read, and write. Projects and tests are challenging. I am careful to address established standards and benchmarks. But here's my first confession . . . my job is an absolute blast! I get paid to enjoy songs, rhymes, puppets, props, drama, stories, movement, and games with my high school students. Some days I dance and eat French food. It's fun--but with purpose.

The most effective way to learn any language is through immersion. What better context for immersion than a game? Motivation is at an all-time high during play. Here are just a few of my favorite games for foreign language classes: Immersion Basketball, Tic Tac Toe, Numbers Games, and Body Parts Games.

Playing games makes language learning fun, effective, and motivating. I've started a discussion about this topic. Come share your thoughts and favorite games.