Cooperative Learning Activities: 7 Fun Ways to Speak Up

Language learning is a journey filled with grammar rules, vocabulary memorization, and—most importantly—building the confidence to communicate effectively. Speaking is a cornerstone of this process. Engaging speaking activities not only enhance language skills but also boost students’ confidence and make learning fun! Below are seven activities designed to improve speaking abilities in students, incorporating collaborative teaching strategies to maximize impact.

ACTIVITY 1: CHINESE WHISPERS

Chinese Whispers (or Telephone) is a classic game that sharpens listening and speaking skills. Divide the class into groups of 5–10 students. One member whispers a sentence to the next, and the message continues until the last student announces it aloud. The team with the closest version to the original wins! This activity emphasizes clear pronunciation, careful listening, and communication skills while fostering a lighthearted, collaborative atmosphere.

ACTIVITY 2: SPEED DATING

Speed Dating is a dynamic way to spark conversations and build conversational confidence. Arrange the classroom so students face each other in pairs. Provide a discussion topic, and after 2–5 minutes, one row rotates. This fast-paced activity encourages students to practice speaking on diverse subjects, gain confidence through repetition, and explore different perspectives. It’s a collaborative teaching strategy that promotes open-mindedness and teamwork.

ACTIVITY 3: YES/NO GAME

The Yes/No Game challenges students to express themselves without using “yes” or “no.” For example, instead of saying, “Yes, I do,” they might reply, “I certainly do!” This activity expands vocabulary, encourages creative language use, and teaches students alternative ways to agree or disagree. It’s adaptable for all ages and reinforces language skills in a playful way.

ACTIVITY 4: BOARD GAME

Create a custom board game tailored to your class. Divide students into teams and take turns describing and guessing words related to animals, jobs, or food. Add time limits and point systems for excitement! This collaborative teaching strategy encourages teamwork, quick thinking, and vocabulary expansion while making learning entertaining.

ACTIVITY 5: STORYTELLING RELAY

The Storytelling Relay develops narrative skills and creativity. Begin by writing the start of a story on the board. Students take turns adding one sentence, building on the previous one until the tale is complete. This activity enhances listening, memory, and speaking skills while allowing students to innovate collaboratively.

ACTIVITY 6: ROLE PLAY

Role play is a versatile activity for practicing real-world conversations. Scenarios like job interviews, doctor’s visits, or restaurant reservations help students build confidence and familiarize themselves with social situations. As a collaborative teaching strategy, role play encourages peer interaction, problem-solving, and appropriate response-building.

ACTIVITY 7: DEBATE

For advanced students, debates sharpen argumentation and complex language use. Divide the class into two teams and assign a topic. Students research arguments for both sides and present their case. This activity fosters critical thinking, research skills, and persuasive speaking. It’s a collaborative teaching strategy that teaches students to articulate thoughts clearly and respectfully.

Integrating these activities into your classroom creates an engaging learning experience where students actively practice speaking. Each activity offers unique benefits—from building confidence and improving listening skills to expanding vocabulary. By making language learning fun, these collaborative teaching strategies motivate students to improve their speaking skills and express themselves effectively. Your goal is to create an environment where all students feel empowered to communicate freely. Try one or more of these activities in your next class—you might be surprised by the results!