Author: Matt

The blog of Matt from Dream English with teaching tips and more

ESL Games: Memory Match – A Fun Game to Teach English to Young Learners!

Quick Game Facts:

  • Name: Memory Match
  • Recommended Ages: 3-12
  • Materials Needed: Flashcards with matching pairs, table or floor space
  • Prep Time: Minimal

Introduction:
Calling all EFL and ESL teachers of young learners! Are you ready to inject some excitement into your English lessons? Look no further than “Memory Match”! This engaging game is not only lots of fun, but it also serves as a powerful tool for expanding your students’ English vocabulary. So, grab your flashcards and get ready to embark on an unforgettable learning adventure!

Overview:

  • Objective: Find matching pairs of flashcards.
  • Recommended Ages: 3-12
  • Materials Needed: Flashcards with matching pairs, table or floor space
  • Prep Time: Minimal

Setting Up the Game:
Preparation for “Memory Match” is a breeze! Simply grab your flashcards, give them a good shuffle, and lay them face down in a grid on a table or the floor. The size of the grid can be adjusted according to the age and abilities of your students. Start with a smaller grid for younger learners, and gradually increase the challenge as their memory skills grow!

Playing Memory Match:
Let the games begin! “Memory Match” is as simple as it gets. Players take turns flipping over two cards, aiming to find matching pairs. When a match is made, the player keeps the cards and gets another turn. If the cards don’t match, they are flipped face down again, and the next player takes a turn. The game continues until all the cards have been matched.

Making It Educational:
While having a blast with “Memory Match,” why not sneak in some English learning too? Encourage your students to say the word on the card when they flip it over. To level up the challenge, ask them to use the word in a sentence. This way, they’re not only practicing vocabulary but also gaining confidence in using the words in context.

Tips and Variations:

  1. Start with a smaller grid for younger children and gradually increase the number of cards as they become more confident.
  2. For better comprehension, use flashcards with words and corresponding images to provide visual cues.
  3. Amp up the excitement by timing the turns, adding a touch of challenge to the game.

Benefits of Memory Match:
In addition to oodles of joy and laughter, “Memory Match” offers numerous benefits for your young language learners. It hones their memory skills, enhances concentration, reinforces vocabulary acquisition, and boosts retention. With its interactive nature, the game ensures maximum engagement, turning English learning into an exciting adventure!

Conclusion:
“Memory Match” is the ultimate game that seamlessly combines enjoyment and English learning. Your little language learners will eagerly anticipate each turn, improving their vocabulary and memory skills along the way. So, gather your flashcards, set up that exhilarating grid, and watch the magic unfold in your classroom. Stay tuned for more fantastic game ideas in our upcoming blog posts. Now, let the memory-matching extravaganza begin!

How To Teach Colors with a Fun Memory Game

Welcome, EFL teachers! Get ready to add a splash of excitement to your lessons with the Color Flashcard Memory Game. Let’s dive into this fun and effective way of teaching English colors!

The Color Flashcard Memory Game:
Imagine a classic memory game infused with colorful flashcards. It’s a game that not only captivates young learners but also helps them master English color vocabulary.

Setting Up the Game:
Gather your color flashcards and create an engaging playing area. A little preparation sets the stage for an unforgettable language learning experience. It is best to use cards that the children can not see through. I have some free printable flashcards here.

How to Play:
Explain the rules of the game step by step, encouraging students to flip cards and make matches. Incorporate English color vocabulary as they conquer the game. Make sure your students say the name of the color when they flip the cards.

Learning Outcomes and Benefits:
The Color Flashcard Memory Game offers more than just fun. It enhances memory skills, develops color recognition, and reinforces English color vocabulary, all while keeping students engaged.

Variations and Adaptations:
Cater to diverse learners by adding challenges, accommodating bilingual students, or introducing additional elements like shapes and numbers. For example, a student can say “blue square” if you are using color shape cards.

Check out these videos to help you teach colors to young learners:

What Color Is It? More color songs on the Dream English Kids YouTube Channel.

Conclusion:
With the Color Flashcard Memory Game in your teaching toolbox, you have a magical tool to make learning colors a memorable experience. Embrace this game, infuse your creativity, and watch your students thrive as they become confident English speakers.

Happy teaching!

Matt

Fun Game: Picture Scavenger Hunt

There are so many fun and creative ways to teach young English learners (ESL, EFL) vocabulary. In this blog series we will be exploring vocabulary games you can use to go along with the My First 100 Words With Matt picture dictionary book. Here we go!

My First 100 Words With Matt

Game: Picture Scavenger Hunt

Get ready for an exciting adventure with our first game: Picture Scavenger Hunt! The goal is simple – preschoolers will actively search for hidden flash cards based on a specific theme. Here’s how to play:

  1. Choose a theme (like animals or food from the book).
  2. Teach the vocabulary using the My First 100 Words Book With Matt.
  3. Prepare small game cards by either drawing a picture of the item on the card, or using flashcards.
  4. Hide picture cards around the play area.
  5. Explain the rules and let the children search for the hidden cards.
  6. When a student finds a card they should bring it back to the teacher and say what is on the card. 
  7. The game finishes when each student gets one card and says the vocabulary to the teacher.
  8. You can play several times as long as it is fun for the students and they are learning.

For higher level students you can ask them to say the vocabulary in a sentence. For example, “ I see a dog.” 

Picture Scavenger Hunt turns learning into a thrilling adventure where children explore, discover, and expand their vocabulary. Let the hunt begin!

I hope this game is fun and helpful for your classes. Check out the My First 100 Words With Matt Book available now on Amazon!

Picture Dictionary Book: Unlocking First Words with Visuals

I have been using the My First 100 Words With Matt book in my young learners English classes. In this post we will explore the benefits of using a picture dictionary book for learning language. Here we go!

My First 100 Words With Matt

Learning to speak and understand language is an exciting milestone in a child’s life. As a parent or caregiver, you play a crucial role in fostering language development. Picture dictionary books are an excellent tool for helping children learn their first words. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using picture dictionary books and provide practical tips for maximizing the learning experience.

The Power of Visuals:
Picture dictionary books are highly effective because they harness the power of visuals. Children are naturally drawn to pictures, and the visual elements in these books enhance their language learning and comprehension. The combination of words and visuals creates an engaging and memorable experience for young learners.

Sample Page from My First 100 Words With Matt Book

Choosing the Right Book:
When selecting a picture dictionary book, consider factors such as age appropriateness, illustrations, and vocabulary. Look for books that align with your child’s developmental stage and interests.

Interactive Learning:
Make picture dictionary book reading interactive and engaging. Encourage your child’s participation by asking questions and discussing the pictures together. By actively involving your child in the learning process, you enhance their comprehension and language skills.

Expanding Vocabulary:
Picture dictionary books are excellent tools for building your child’s vocabulary. Explore different word categories like nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Use the visuals to reinforce the meaning of words and help your child remember them. Repetition is key in vocabulary acquisition, so revisit the book regularly and encourage your child to use the words in everyday conversations.

Making Real-Life Connections:
Help your child connect the words they learn in the picture dictionary book to their everyday experiences. Relate the book’s content to their routines, environment, and personal interests. Encourage curiosity and imagination by asking open-ended questions and sparking discussions about the pictures.

Beyond Words: Concepts and Context:
Picture dictionary books go beyond teaching individual words. They can introduce broader concepts such as colors, shapes, numbers, and emotions. Explore storylines, characters, and plot development to expand your child’s language skills.

Conclusion:
Picture dictionary books are powerful tools for teaching children their first words. Through visuals, interactive reading, and vocabulary expansion, these books create a language-rich environment that supports your child’s language development. By choosing the right book, making real-life connections, and exploring concepts, you can maximize the learning experience. So, grab a picture dictionary book and embark on a visual journey that will unlock a world of words for your little one!

Try the My First 100 Words With Matt book to start your child’s learning journey. Available now on Amazon.

Numbers Game: Numbers Hunt!

Numbers are an important part of a young learners (ESL, EFL) lesson. Using songs like the Dream English Let’s Count 1 to 10 is a great way to introduce numbers. Check that song out here. After singing the song, try this fun game:

The “Number Hunt” game. Ages 3-6. Here’s how you can play it:

  1. Prepare number cards: Create or print out large, colorful cards with numbers from 1 to 10. Each card should have a corresponding number of objects or dots to represent the numeral. You can also use flashcards.
  2. Hide the number cards: Hide the number cards around the classroom or a designated play area.
  3. Explain the game: Gather the children and explain that they are going on a number hunt to find the hidden numbers.
  4. Start the hunt: Encourage the children to search for the number cards one by one. When they find a card, they should bring it back to you or a designated area.
  5. Number recognition: Once a child finds a number card, ask them to identify the number and count the objects or dots on the card. You can reinforce their understanding by asking questions like, “What number did you find?” or “How many objects are on the card?”
  6. Repeat and rotate: Repeat the game, hiding the cards in different locations, and let each child have multiple turns finding the numbers.

Matt’s Tip: To avoid competition, tell each student they can only get one card.

This game not only helps young learners practice number recognition and counting skills but also adds an element of excitement and physical activity to the learning process. Be sure that you are hiding the numbers in a safe area for children.

Have a look at the popular Let’s Count 1 to 10 Video here. Happy Teaching!

How To Teach Numbers – Children’s English ESL, EFL

Teaching children numbers and counting from 1-100 is an important part of any young learners English Class (ESL, EFL). In this post I will talk about

  • How to teach Numbers 1-10 to beginner students
  • How to teach Numbers 1-100 and beyond
  • Songs to help students learn numbers
  • Games and activities to practice numbers with your students.

HOW TO TEACH NUMBERS 1-10 TO BEGINNER STUDENTS

There are many different ways to teach numbers. I do not think it is necessary to translate numbers to the students native language. The students will be able to understand numbers by counting. Here are a few ways I introduce numbers to young students ages 3-6:

  • I use my fingers and count from 1-10. Encourage your students to follow along.
  • Teach the numbers with flashcards
  • Count objects and students
  • Do actions and count. For example, jumping or standing on one foot and counting to ten.

I sometimes do all of the above in one lesson! It can be fun and by the end students will really begin to count in English.

DICE GAME

I have a big soft dice in my classroom. I use this for a simple game with my students.

First, we count the numbers on each side from 1-6. Next, I roll the dice and ask the students what is the number on the top of the dice when the roll stops. My dice has numbers, but you can use any dice and count the dots.

Now it is the students turn. If you have a big class, get volunteers. For smaller classes, every student can have a turn. Be careful using small dice if you have young students. Look for a dice like you see in the picture above.

SONGS FOR TEACHING NUMBERS

I use Let’s Count 1 to 10 to teach numbers in preschool English class and the kids love it! It’s simple and fun. Kids from 2-10 years old will enjoy this simple song and dance. 

Before teaching the song, I start by teaching the numbers from 1-10. 

I teach the numbers in a few different ways: 

  • I use my fingers and count from 1-10. Encourage your students to follow along.
  • Teach the numbers with flashcards
  • Count objects and students
  • Do actions and count like jumping or standing on one foot and counting to ten.

Next, I teach the words of the song with the actions. 

You can see the actions in the video above. It is simple clapping from side to side while counting to ten. I do this first before trying with the melody. 

Now sing the song!

After teaching the actions to the song it is now time to give it a try. If you know the melody, sing the song without background music first. Finally, add the music and sing the song with your students!

Why so many steps?

Young learners need repetition to learn. While you are doing the steps to teach numbers, keep it fun for your students. Be a little silly, smile and laugh. Also, do not expect too much from your students for a first try. 

You can download a Free MP3 of the song here and it is also available on Spotify and other streaming services!

TEACHING NUMBERS 1-100 AND BEYOND

When my students are comfortable with numbers 1-10 I begin introducing higher numbers. For numbers 11-100 I use flashcards. It becomes more difficult to count objects when you get into higher numbers.

Here are some tips:

  • Teach 1-20 first. Students may have challenges with numbers 11, 12, 13, and 15. Go slowly with these numbers.
  • After your students can count to 20, introduce 20-100 counting by tens: 20, 30, 40, etc.
  • When your students are comfortable counting to 100 this way you can count up by one and teach 21, 22, 23, 24, etc.
  • You do not have to count from 1-100 by 1s every class. I usually count 1-30 by 1s and then by tens to 100.
  • After 100 you can introduce 1,000 and 10,000 young learners have fun counting such high numbers

SONGS FOR COUNTING TO 100

In the video above your students can practice counting from 1-100 by 1s and get some exercise! Give it a try.

SONGS FOR COUNTING TO 1,000

Believe it or not I have a song and video to count to 1,000! This video might be good for your students to listen to in the background or at home.

SIMPLE NUMBERS GAMES

There are so many games you can use to teach numbers. With young English learners ages 3-6 I use two simple games.

  1. Touch Game – Put numbers flashcards on the table or floor and ask your students to touch a number you say. For young learners you can start with numbers 1-3 and as the students advance add more numbers. You can also make it a competition by having two students at a time touch a number you say. The faster student wins.
  2. Quiz Game – Show a number flashcard to your students and have them call out the number they see. You can start slowly with younger students. As your students get better, show them the card quickly by spinning it around. Have fun with this.

I hope this has been helpful. Be creative and use a lot of repetition and review. I teach numbers every class. Numbers are important and it doubles as great English pronunciation practice!

Happy Teaching!
Matt
Dream English

My First 100 Words With Matt Book

I’m super excited to tell you about my new book: My First 100 Words With Matt. A book designed for young learners of English as a second or foreign language (ESL, EFL).

We worked really hard on this book to present the vocabulary in a fun and memorable way. Each chapter has ten vocabulary words. I chose the vocabulary based upon the most important words for young English learners. The vocabulary in the book follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Why 100 Words?

I chose one hundred words as it is a concrete and doable goal for children. The words in this book are chosen because children will find them common in their lives. Learn Animals, Food, Vehicles, Numbers, Jobs, Colors, Family, Clothing, Body Parts, and Actions vocabulary.

It is said that with a few hundred words we can get by in a language. To be conversational, research shows that between 800-1000 words are necessary. With a basis of 100 words your young learners will be on their way to speaking English!

Look Inside! Let’s have a look at a few chapters from the book:

Free Audio and Visual Materials

I have created audio lessons to go with each chapter. You can check those out here. I am also working on videos for each chapter with chapters 1-3 already available. Students can watch the videos and follow along with each chapter. Check out Chapter 1 below. For more videos go to the Dream English Kids YouTube channel.

Students can also watch the My first 100 Words chant video with all of the vocabulary.

If you are a parent wanting your child to learn English, or a teacher of English this book is for you!

Search for the book on Amazon in your local country store.

Below are links to purchase the book in different country Amazon stores. Click on your country.

USA, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Japan, Canada, Australia

Thanks for your support! – Matt

New Book: My First 100 Words With Matt

New Book: My First 100 Words With Matt! 🎉

Available now on Amazon. Click here to learn more!

Learn 100 Vocabulary Words in ten fun and easy to understand chapters.

Free downloadable audio resources to go with the book. Details on the inside cover.
The book goes with the 100 Words in English Chant on the Dream English Kids YouTube channel.

Build student confidence with an attainable goal of learning 100 words!

Get your copy here!

Thanks!

Matt