Gossip is a major motivator when it comes to language production. People listen intently and language is used purposefully. Along with narrative/stories, it really activates language learning. I’ve used this lesson hundreds of times and I’m always astounded by the level of student interest and involvement (and creativity!). And it is so super simple!

Get a full description HERE on EFL Classroom’s Lessons in a Can, but essentially, you hand out a piece of A4 to each student and they one sentence, one piece of gossip about the student on their left. Then, they pass it to their right and that student continues the “gossip story” and makes it even juicier. After, collect the papers and read the gossip about students. I prefer to collect the papers and read the next day after editing and making sure there isn’t any hurtful stuff. Be careful about that and the class you use this lesson with.

But for powerful language learning, engagement and real communication – you can’t beat “Heard it through the Grapevine”. Make sure to play the song along with the lesson!

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