Fun Group Speaking Activity for Adult ESL | Emergency Sub Activity

Need something low-prep but powerful to give your adult ESL students (or high school students) something for speaking practice and team building? This communication activity offers two options guaranteed to grab students' attention and set off passionate debates. Maybe fights (verbal).

This activity could get loud. Opinions are likely to be strong. They're building a new world, after all.

Perfect for the end of the year, back to school, or even as an emergency sub activity!

WHAT'S INSIDE this 13-page PDF:

• ✅ comprehensive teacher's guides for both Option 1 and Option 2

• ✅ unique person cards adaptable to either scenario

• ✅ handy summary sheet (Option 2)

• ✅ SURPRISE twist to keep students on their toes and deepen engagement

Here are a couple of must-know details:

Option 1: In this scenario, students collaborate in pairs or small groups to face a life-or-death decision. As time ticks away, they must deliberate and decide which individuals are worth saving/needed to rebuild society. Who will they choose, and what criteria will guide their selections?

Option 2: In this scenario, students assume the roles of either hopeful applicants vying for a coveted spot on the space shuttle or members of the hearing committee tasked with making life-altering decisions. With time dwindling, who will secure their ticket to safety, and whose dreams will be dashed?

This low-prep activity inspires lively discussions (and sometimes loud arguments) and encourages creative problem-solving with high-stakes scenarios. As your students talk their way through ethical dilemmas, they're working on teamwork and collaboration skills as well as honing their persuasive abilities.

EVERYTHING IN THIS ACTIVITY WAS CREATED FOR ADULT ESL STUDENTS

I created this with adult students in mind. You won't find cartoonish clipart or children's content.