Sit Down: A Listening Activity

ESL literacy learners need many opportunities to hear new words. One activity I do with my Foundation and Phase I learners is what I call Sit Down If. I have everyone stand up. Then I say "Sit down if...

• you have six brothers
• you live in an apartment
• you speak Nuer
• you are wearing boots

With lower levels, I ask questions in a predictable sequence, for instance, first asking if they have one child, then two children, then three, and so on. For learners with higher listening skills, I ask in random order so they have to pay attention. 

This activity gets learners out of their chairs, gives them opportunity to hear familiar vocabulary and provides a brief change in pace.