Classification of games

There are various classifications.

Games can be classified according to language subskills: pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, spelling and basic reading games.

Games can be classified according to skills they develop: reading, listening, speaking and writing games.

Also games can be integrative when some skills or subskills are developed or drilled together: drama, puppet games, role plays, simulations.

Another classification is based on objects used: board games, card games, sound, computer, music and picture games.

Moreover, classification can be based on types of actions involved: guessing problem-solving, moving, drawing, brain storming, warming-up, discussion, storytelling and memory games.

There are controlled, guided and communicative games: controlled and guided games focus on a certain aspect of the language when the teacher provides the content of the game; communicative games are integrative, their content can be provided by learners.

A game or an exercise?

Games allow learners to acquire the language in a natural way; encourage to improvise; make learners use the language spontaneously; presuppose relaxation and enjoyment; involve competition.

Collecting New Games

When collecting games it is important to note what language needs only be understood by the players and what language must be used by them. In some games the learners are only expected to listen, understand, and, for example, point to a picture of carry out an action. Thus, the language level is determined by the type of use, not just the structures and vocabulary items themselves.