Section 1

The Big Four

The unit starts with a look at the main components of communication and shows that the four skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and wr0iting can be used together in learning activities.

Activity A (optional activity)

Adjective names

These icebreakers focus in a fun way on one of the nuts and bolts of language.

Why choose this activity?

Use one of these icebreakers if tutors do not know each other well.

Option 1 Icebreaker using names

Why choose this option?

This icebreaker requires no preparation and is better suited to a group that isn’t interested in drawing.

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

  1. Ask tutors to come up with an adjective to describe themselves that starts with the same letter as their first name. Some tutors will find that a bit difficult, depending on the letter they need to use, so be prepared to help brainstorm. The adjectives can be common or exotic.
  2. In a circle, share the adjectives and names. Don’t push tutors to share their adjectives, just encourage them.
  3. State that learners need to know lots of adjectives to improve their ability to describe the world around them.

Facilitation Tip

As you look over this unit, decide how you can adapt it to reflect the ESL learners in your community. For instance, a grammar example from the first language of a learner in your program might be more meaningful than the example we have included.


Option 2 Icebreaker artwork

Why choose this option?

This icebreaker provides an artistic outlet and helps tutors get to know each other.

Materials and equipment

Coloured paper
Markers
Glitter

Preparation

Gather materials.

Facilitation tip

If your group knows each other fairly well, you can still use the activity by working together to give an adjective to each person.