An engaging ESL routine for K1–K2 that boosts vocabulary, confidence, and listening
“Look at how engaged our students are during circle time!” In our English FUNdation Lv. 2 class, children light up as they answer rapid‑fire questions: “Can you run?” “Yes, I can!” “Can you fly?” “No, I can’t.” This playful routine blends movement, vocabulary, and complete sentences—ideal for early learners and second‑language speakers.
What is the “Can you…?” routine?
- Structure: Teacher asks a verb question; students respond in a full sentence and act it out.
- Language target: modal “can,” subject‑auxiliary inversion for questions, contracted negative “can’t.”
- Verbs to start with: run, jump, hop, clap, dance, swim, fly, read, sing, draw, kick, throw.
Why it works (backed by TPR and early‑years research)
- Total Physical Response links meaning to motion, improving recall.
- Short, repeated turns build automaticity and pronunciation.
- Choice and humor (“Can you fly?”) keep attention high and lower affective filters.
Step‑by‑step classroom routine
- Warm‑up gestures: show “Yes, I can!” thumbs‑up; “No, I can’t.” head shake.
- Model: Ask yourself and answer out loud with actions.
- Whole‑group chorus: Everyone answers together to build confidence.
- Quick‑fire rounds: Randomize verbs and students for fast listening.
- Role reversal: Students ask the teacher and peers.
- Cool‑down review: “What can you do?” Students list 2–3 abilities.
Differentiation
- Beginners: Use visuals or verb cards; slow pace; sentence frames on board.
- Intermediate: Add adverbs or numbers—“Yes, I can jump five times!”
- Extension: Contrast “can” vs. “can’t,” then switch to “Do you like…?” or “Are you…?” to connect grammar.
Home practice for parents
- Five‑question challenge: Ask during commute or bath time.
- Movement mission: “Can you hop to your room?” Make chores game‑like.
- Video mirror: Record a 20‑second “I can…” show and celebrate progress.
Sample mini‑script
Teacher: “Can you clap?”
Class: “Yes, I can!” (clap 5 times)
Teacher: “Can you fly?”
Class: “No, I can’t!” (laugh + arms like wings)
Assessment ideas
- Sticker chart: verb accuracy and full sentences
- Exit ticket: each child says two “I can…” sentences independently
- Observation notes on pronunciation of can/can’t and final consonants
About FUNdation
Our FUNdation program blends phonics, conversation, and movement to build confident speakers from K1 to K3. Find more about English FUNdation course
