20 Best Vocabulary Games for ESL Classrooms: Make Learning Words Fun

Vocabulary is the foundation of language learning. Games make new words stick by making learning fun and memorable.

Quick Review Games (5-10 min)

1. Hot Seat

One student sits facing away from the board. Class gives clues for the word behind them.

2. Pictionary

Students draw vocabulary words while teammates guess.

3. Flashcard Slap

Spread flashcards on table. Call a word. Students race to slap the correct card.

4. Categories

Give a category and letter. Students list matching words.

Memory Games

5. Memory Match

Match word cards to picture or definition cards.

6. Kim's Game

Show objects for 30 seconds, cover, students write what they remember.

7. Disappearing Text

Gradually erase words from a text. Students recite from memory.

Team Games

8. Jeopardy

Categories based on vocabulary topics. Teams answer for points.

9. Bingo

Students make bingo cards with vocabulary. Call definitions or show pictures.

10. Vocabulary Relay

Teams race to write words on the board.

Speaking Games

11. Taboo

Describe a word without using 5 forbidden words.

12. 20 Questions

Guess a vocabulary item through yes/no questions.

Tips

• Pre-teach words before games
• Keep activities fast-paced
• Use teams to reduce pressure