Jenga

Setup

You will need a set of Jenga blocks for every two to six students playing. If you have a large class, try playing some other similar games at the same time.

You will also need some challenges/questions. You could write these on the blocks themselves, but a good way to make sure you can adjust the game in future (and not ruin your Jenga set too much!), is to just write a different number on each block. Write the numbers on a long side so they can’t be seen when stacked.

On the board, write/project a list of challenges or questions assigned to each number.

Game

1. As in a normal game of Jenga, the blocks are arranged in a tower.
2. The students take turns removing blocks and placing them on top of the tower.
3. However, each time a block is removed, the student must say the number written on that block. They then have to do the challenge or answer the question assigned to that number.

Target Language

The Jenga ESL game is a fun activity for a warmer or more relaxed class, on the last day of school or around the holidays for example.

You can use it with any level and to review any type of grammar or vocabulary, simply vary the challenges as appropriate. Try word definitions, personal preferences/plans, have you ever/what would you do questions etc. Take a look at our Challenge Generator for ideas.

If you have a large class and only one Jenga set, try setting up other similar games at the same time (e.g. Target Practice, Beer Pong). Students can change to a different game as and when they finish. For an extended class/day of games, what about a Class Olympics?