Fun brain teasers for language learners
I’ve just added two more language brain teasers to my Top 10 of Top 100 brain teasers that work in the classroom and get learners to think about the subtleties of the language. They may be used both for face-to-face and online teaching.
Calculator spelling
07734, it’s me
I was wondering if
You ever tried to ‘write’ on a calculator.
This fun calculator spelling quiz can be used for all learners, including beginners. The task is to crack the code, i.e., to figure out words you can spell upside-down using a calculator.
Answer:
You can also start with something a little more simple to explain the concept of calculator spelling:
707
LOL
Rebus Puzzles
A rebus is a representation of a word or phrase using pictures and letters or words.
For online classes, try the Rebus Puzzles game for intermediate/upper-intermediate level learners (Rebus Puzzles). All the rebuses depict well-known English idioms. You can either have your learners play the game or screen share rebus puzzles one at a time. Learners can call out their guesses.
For face-to-face classes, write these rebuses on the board and have learners solve them.
1.
Answer: Forget it
2.
Answer: On second thought
3.
Answer: Love at first sight
4.
Answer: Too little, too late
5.
Answer: Sleep on it
6.
Answer: Fingers crossed
7.
Answer: Head over heels
8.
Answer: Fat chance
9.
Answer: Right under the nose
10.
Answer: No one to blame
For an extended follow-up activity, have your learners create a short story using the idioms.
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Please leave me a comment if you know a good brain teaser!
Other brain break resources & ideas:
GIVE ‘EM A BREAK: TOP 10 BRAIN TEASERS FOR ENGLISH CLASSES
ONE BRAIN TEASER WE KNOW – BUT DON’T KNOW WE KNOW
