Circle Comparisons

Activity title:

Circle comparisons

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Skill(s):

Speaking, writing

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Level(s):

A1-A2

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Exam part:

Reading and Writing

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Aim(s):

To practice comparative adjectives to compare subjects, based on single-word cues

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Materials needed:

Nouns displayed on the board or on the screen

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Preparation:

Choose 6-8 nouns connected in sense to a common theme

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Procedure:

Step 1. Show the students several nouns laid out in a circle like this:

Step 2. Ask students to suggest a point of comparison between any two. For example,A plane is faster than a train.
Draw a line between plane and train to represent the comparison.

Step 3. Ask for another sentence linking two other items until all the words are linked with lines.

Step 4. Students are given sets of nouns on paper to work on individually. They draw lines and write the corresponding sentences.

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Variation(s)

The teacher can provide some extra practice afterwards by asking students to recall sentences that are represented by the lines. Point to one line and ask the class what was said when it was drawn in. When a student repeats the sentence, delete the line.

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Reflections

The activity provides students with both oral and written practice of comparative adjectives in a meaningful way. All students are involved in the working process. Even if some of them do not participate actively in oral practice, they use comparisons in the written follow-up.
At the same time, the students should know the vocabulary presented. The same goes with the adjectives the students use to compare things. Make sure they use the vocabulary they know rather than asking you for new words.