Answer: There are many activities. The one we are discussing today, combines collaboration and developing the social skill of giving/receiving, as well as the language one can use. This activity could also be used in-person.
TITLE: "Pass the Gift"
LEVEL: A1+
BEFORE CLASS: No preparation required of the teacher.
IN CLASS - ONLINE:
- Tell the learners to get up and to go look foran object they like a lot. For example: See my blue crysta (See photo).
- Ask the learners to turn on their cameras and to go Gallery view on screen, so you can all see each other.
- Do a quick check, asking the learners to say who is on their right and on their left, as they are looking at the screen.
- You do the same. Then, turn to the learner on your right, show the object you have chosen and offer it to him/her with a wish.
- For Example: “This is a gift from me to you. I give you my blue crystal. Hold it tight. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and let your heart fill with peace and happiness.”
- The person 'receiving the gift' responds, saying, “Thank you, I will cherish it." or "Thank you, how nice of you/generous of you", etc.
- Then, s/he turns to the person on his/her right, offers his/her gift, using their own words.
N.B.: Learners of lower Levels will use a much simpler language, e.g., Learner A: "I'm giving you this shell. I like it a lot." Learner B: "Thank you. It's beautiful."
RATIONALE: Learners, of all ages, need to develop the social skills of giving and receiving and of appreciating the small things in life that make us happy: a beautiful object, a nice gesture, a warm smile. At the same time, they need to learn the appropriate language to be used when they exchange gifts, or when they compliment each other.
A Happy Spring,
Suzanne and Lilika
