This document discusses using games for language learning. It argues that many modern games involve problem-solving, creative thinking, and interaction that can promote language acquisition. The document outlines several ways games can support language learning, such as through reading instructions and dialogue, interacting with characters, and using online resources. It also notes potential pros, like motivation, and cons, like risks of online play. Overall, the document advocates adapting non-educational games for language learning rather than traditional educational games.

1. Image by @acliltoclimb via eltpics
Promoting language learning through gaming
David Dodgson, TED Ankara College

2. 
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A) Yes, all the time.
B) Yes, occassionally.
C) No, never!
Image by @acliltoclimb via eltpics

4. ...just for kids.
...mindless ‘bash n’
smash’ affairs.
 ...full of random puzzles.
 ...repetitive.
 ...linear.
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5. 
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Image by @acliltoclimb via eltpics
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...are engaging.
...are motivating.
...have complex
storylines.
...demand problem
solving skills.
...encourage critical
thinking.
...inspire creativity.

6. ...is about:
game-based learning
adapting noneducational materials
 exploring possibilities

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...is NOT about:
 gamification
 educational games
 simple playing

7. http://youtu.be/RU_1Am-AeHs

8. How can games be useful for language learning?
Image by Steven Andrew Photography

9. What do these games have in common?

10. How can games be useful for language learning?

11. How can games be useful for language learning?
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Reading manuals and in-game instructions.
Interacting with in-game characters.
Chatting with other online players in English.
Getting help by reading ‘walkthrough’ guides or
watching videos.
• Encouragement of dictionary use/ language
investigation.

12. What are the pros and cons of using games for language
learning?

13. What are the pros and cons of using games for language
learning?
PROS
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Motivation
You learn in a useful way
You learn different vocabulary
You learn through play (and have
fun!)
You hear different accents/ styles of
speaking
You can ‘talk’ to other characters/
players
Games don’t give homework!
CONS
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Bad language
Playing online has some risks
Not all vocabulary is useful
when you are not playing
Some characters speak in an
unusual way
Not everyone enjoys the same
games
Players don’t always read the
text/ listen to dialogue

14. What makes a good/bad game?
Games have changed drastically over the last 40
years – what does the future hold for gaming?
• Are games social or anti-social?
• Tell us about your favourite game!
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15. Using avatars to get students using language

16. Think of a game you
play with your own
character.
 Note down some basic
information about your
character.
 Introduce your
character to the class.

*Also works nicely as a blog activity.

17. 
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Look at these avatars.
Which game or website
do you think each avatar
is from?
These avatars are all
from students in our
class! Can you guess who
they are?
Describe the differences
between the avatar and
its creator.

18. Create a character card for
your avatar like this:
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Name: Panam
Game: World of Warcraft
Species: Panderan
Job/Role: Monk
Abilities: Cooking, healing
Likes: Eating, questing
Appearance: tall, fat,
black and white fur, long
beard and moustache
*Higher levels could write a bio

19. •
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Basic descriptions.
Family portrait – make an avatar family with The Sims!
Use a site like miicharacters.com to find ‘famous’ avatars
for a ‘Guess Who?’ game.
Role-play a dialogue between avatars.
Use them as characters in a story.
Avatar dictation – read the description and create the
avatar using a game of your choice.

20. Giving/receiving advice and using ‘walkthroughs’

21. 
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I am going to show you a game called Can you
escape?
This is Level 1. How can I get out of the room?
Help me!

22. 
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This is Level 2. It’s really hard!
Search for a walkthrough on the Internet and
tell me what to do.

23. 
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You’re are getting pretty good at this!
This is Level 3. Play through it with a partner,
note down what you do and write your own
walkthrough.

24. 
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Now, you are going to make your own level!
How? Go to Room Escape Maker, register and make
your own puzzle.  http://doctorfou.com/room-escape-maker
Thanks to Larry Ferlazzo for sharing this site:
http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2013/08/06/create-your-own-escape-the-room-game-withroom-escape-maker/

25. Write a walkthrough for a game of your choice.
Make a screencasted video walkthrough.
Gap-fill walkthrough – ask them to play through
the level and complete the walkthrough text.
• Write a ‘walkthrough’ style text for a nongaming activity.
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26. eltsandbox.weebly.com
facebook.com/eltsandbox1
twitter.com/ELTSandbox
eltsandbox1@gmail.com
The game has just begun...