In the Stand Up Comedy ESL activity, students prepare and perform a set of jokes for the class.
4+
20-40 mins
Internet
Setup
Students will need access to the Internet on a smartphone or computer to find their jokes.
Activity
- Students use the Internet to find a few homophone and homonym jokes they like. Encourage them not to just choose the first ones they find, as you don’t want everyone’s routine to be the same!
- They spend a few minutes trying to memorise their jokes as best they can (although you can let them use notes if they need to).
- The students take turns performing their routine. Make the activity into more of an event by projecting a stage background, playing intro music and dimming the lights if possible. Encourage students to adopt the style of a comedian as much as possible too!
- After each routine, review the homophones and homonyms used. At the end, ask the students to vote for their favourite comedian.
Target Language
The Stand Up Comedy ESL activity is designed for practising homophones and homonyms. However, you could also just use it as a fun time-filler in a more relaxed class. It is suitable for high intermediate and advanced students.
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