Speech-Related Activity:

Gestures and Drama in the Classroom

1. Gestures:

Gestures and eye contact are important as part of non-verbal communication. English speakers use gestures whereas many Japanese speakers don’t. Sometimes these gestures have different meanings from their Japanese ones. If you have a Team Teaching class, the AET can easily demonstrate some gestures. Pictures can also help you understand the meanings of the gestures.

2. Drama in the Classroom:

Play a section of video with the sound turned down and ask the students to improvise (Make up the words or actions) to show they understand the meaning. Write and perform a skit using props available to you at school. Put on a performance for another class to show them how you are using your English. Many students like karaoke, so why not sing songs in class and devise learning materials around the text?