The family is a topic that can be introduced quite early on to children learning English as a foreign language. The theme is ideal because it provides many talking points.
Introducing Family Words with Flashcards
One of the easiest ways to introduce family words is using flashcards. Starting with a picture of a family is a great way to open the activity. From here, individual family members can be introduced. How extended the family should be depends on the level of English within the group and the amount of lesson time available. For an hour session, introducing a mother, father, daughter, son, sister, brother, grandmother and grandfather are usually sufficient.
With each family member it is useful to write the name on the board and place the picture near it. It is important that the teacher highlights shortened forms of the name, for example father – dad daddy. In addition, the difference between American and British spellings can be explained to older groups. When the family words have been introduced, the teacher can ask the children if they have a brother or sister and how many.
Do Not Forget About the Pets
Pets are family members as well and this is an excellent opportunity for children to practice more common animal words. Brainstorming on the board a list of possible family pets is a useful way to do this. Furthers a prompt.
Introducing the Family
Once the family words have been introduced to the children, the teacher can show a drawing of his or her family naming each person with the correct family word. The teacher can also tell about each of the family members, for example “my brother is younger than me but taller than me” or “my sister likes shopping”. This is also a good opportunity for the teacher to highlight that all families are different. Divorced parents can be drawn on different parts of the page, for example. Pets should also be included in the picture.
Children usually find it very interesting to hear details about the teacher's family. If the teacher feels comfortable with talking in more detail about his or her family, then this can lead to an excellent discussion opportunity. The teacher can accept questions from the group and help them to form their questions in English. By responding back in English, the teacher is also providing the opportunity for the children to practise their comprehension skills.
Creating a Family Drawing
The children can then be encouraged to create their own family picture. Labelling each family member and providing some details about each person. Each child can then have a turn to show his or her picture to the group and tell about each family member. A word of warning: some children may have painful family situations and the teacher should be prepared for dealing with this, if it arises.
Children usually enjoy drawing and talking about their families. The theme of families is a useful one when teaching English because it allows children to practice not only family words but also animal words, numbers, likes and dislikes.
Heather Tucker - Heather Tucker is an experienced writer, photographer and traveller. Having lived in four countries (USA, Estonia, United Kingdom and the ...
