Say Act Draw

Setup

If you have an Internet-connected device, the easiest way to play is using our online Articulate game. Otherwise, prepare a list of vocabulary words appropriate to the students’ level, so that the words can be revealed one at a time. Either way, bear in mind that the vocabulary you choose should be things that can be described, acted out or drawn.

In class, divide the students into two teams.

Game

1. The teams take turns playing.
2. One student from a team comes to the front of class and rolls the dice. If they roll a one or two, they will be describing for this round, a three or four means they act, while a five or six means they have to draw.
3. The student then has thirty seconds in which to make the rest of their team guess as many words as possible using the method that was indicated. Only when the team guesses correctly should you reveal the next word. However, you may want to allow one or more passes per round with lower levels.
4. Award one point for each correctly guessed word.
5. Repeat with the other team, then other students at the front. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

As an extension, you could even add sculpting into the mix by using modelling clay (this would require two dice for an equal chance at all tasks). In that case you may want to give students one minute instead of thirty seconds, and be very selective about the vocabulary you use!

Target Language

This works as a great warmer for any level from beginner to advanced, as you can adapt your choice of words to the level of the class. It can also work well for practising certain specific types of vocabulary, namely sports and hobbies, animals, and musical instruments.