Games and Activities to Start Learning English (and Other Languages)

English course
When it comes to language retention, memorization, and mastering a new language, games are one of the best ways to keep people of all ages engaged and excited to learn a new language. Engaging different parts of the brain, studies have shown that these emotionally engaging activities feature positive emotions resulting in the release of dopamine, which therefore help people have not just a more enjoyable time learning English, but a more productive time. 

Scrabble 

Scrabble enhances English learning by building vocabulary, improving spelling, and fostering strategic thinking. Players are challenged to create words using limited letter tiles, encouraging them to explore new terms and patterns. Frequent exposure to word formation strengthens spelling and understanding of word structure, such as prefixes, suffixes, and root words. The game also introduces rare or advanced vocabulary, prompting players to look up definitions, which aids retention. Scrabble’s competitive aspect motivates players to expand their lexicon and recall words quickly. Additionally, it encourages problem-solving and critical thinking, helping learners connect language skills with cognitive processes in an enjoyable way.

Charades 

Charades help people learn English by enhancing vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills through active, engaging play. Players must act out words or phrases without speaking, encouraging others to guess based on non-verbal cues. This process helps learners associate words with actions or contexts, reinforcing memory and understanding. Watching others act also builds comprehension by linking physical gestures to specific English words or concepts. Additionally, the game’s interactive nature improves listening and speaking skills, as participants use English to guess, clarify, or provide feedback. The playful, low-pressure environment fosters confidence and creativity, making language learning enjoy

Pictionary 

Pictionary helps people learn English by improving vocabulary, comprehension, and creative thinking through visual representation. Players draw pictures to represent specific words or phrases while others guess the answer, which strengthens associations between images and language. This process encourages learners to think creatively about how to convey meaning without relying on translation. It also enhances comprehension as participants interpret visual clues to guess the correct English term. By engaging with new words in a fun and interactive setting, learners retain vocabulary more effectively. Additionally, the game’s collaborative nature promotes communication, reinforces word usage in context, and builds confidence in language skills.

Wordle 

Wordle can be a useful tool for learning English, particularly for building vocabulary and improving spelling skills. The game requires players to guess a five-letter English word in a limited number of attempts, which encourages them to think critically about letter combinations and word patterns. Learners develop a stronger sense of English spelling rules, such as consonant-vowel arrangements and common prefixes or suffixes. Wordle also introduces new words, prompting players to look up definitions, which helps expand their vocabulary. Its daily puzzle format promotes consistent practice, and the challenge of finding the correct word makes learning engaging and enjoyable.

Word Association 

Word association helps people learn English by strengthening vocabulary, comprehension, and cognitive connections between words. In this activity, learners respond to a given word with another related word, fostering quick thinking and reinforcing semantic relationships, such as synonyms, antonyms, or thematic links. For example, hearing “ocean” might prompt “waves,” “blue,” or “beach.” This process deepens understanding of word meanings and usage in context, helping learners remember new vocabulary more effectively. It also encourages creativity and active engagement, which improves retention. Additionally, word association mirrors natural language processing, helping learners think in English rather than translating from their native language.

Mastering English while Getting a College Degree 

While games for English as a second language can help you, classes are often considered the best way to learn English because they provide structured learning, expert guidance, and a supportive environment for practice. But what if you could learn English when you have a Spanish background while also getting a degree? At St. Augustine in Chicago, our curriculum ensures a systematic approach to grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, catering to different skill levels, with the motto “Spanish first, English last”. Teachers, as language experts, provide immediate feedback, correct mistakes, and adapt lessons to address students’ needs as students in fast-track programs dedicated to giving you the skills needed for careers such as in the field of respiratory therapy, social work, and early childhood education. If you want to master the English language, get a degree, and build up the qualifications for a satisfying and rewarding career, reach out to St. Augustine college and learn more today.