In the Picture Duel ESL game students have to say the correct vocabulary word as fast as they can.
Setup
If you have a projector and Internet access, the easiest way to play is using our interactive Picture Duel game.
If not, you will need some large vocabulary flashcards which have just a picture on one side. Shuffle the flashcards and place them face down in a pile at the front.
Divide the class into two teams.
Game
- The teams each send one student to the front. If you are playing with flashcards, the students each take one, taking care not to show the picture yet.
- The students stand facing the side walls of the classroom, away from each other.
- The class counts down three, two, one…and on zero the students have to spin around to look at the picture on the board (interactive game), or the picture in the hands of the other student (flashcards).
- The first student to say the vocabulary word that corresponds to the picture wins a point for their team.
- Repeat the process for future rounds. After three rounds, the teams change the student at the front; repeat as many times as appropriate. The team with the most points at the end wins.
Tip: If playing with flashcards, you will have to make sure that the students are not cheating by showing the picture they have slowly. Be prepared to make some disqualifications or points deductions if that happens.
Target Language
You can play the Picture Duel ESL game to practise any vocabulary that can be clearly represented by an image. Our interactive game has a variety of pre-made categories (plus a random selection), which allow you to select the exact words you want to include.
It is designed as a warmer or review activity for beginner and intermediate students, but higher levels may also find it fun. Kids especially love the fast-paced, dramatic nature of the game.
For a similar vocabulary review game involving pictures, try Pixelate.
Got a picture or video of this activity in action? How about snapping one next time you use it? We'd love to showcase your submissions- find out more here.