There are loads of good reasons to use puppets in the ESL classroom, but my number one reason is that kids simply love them. They love interacting with them, and they love the change of energy that a puppet can bring. I know some teachers can feel self-conscious about it, so I hope these tips will give you the push needed to embrace the puppet!
1. Suspense
If we just take the puppet down from the shelf, we are missing a great teaching opportunity. Hide the puppet in a box or a bag. At the right time during the class, bring out the bag/box. Ask the students who/what is inside? I recommend having a few different puppets, so students never know who it will be! The puppet jumps out and the students are delighted!
2. Introductions
The puppet can ask students lots of introduction questions (depending on age and ability).
“What’s your name?”
“How old are you?”
“Where are you from?”
“Do you like…?”
Students can ask the puppet these questions too.
3. Food and Drink
Students love feeding puppets. Get a puppet with a big mouth for added fun! For young students, put pictures of food around the room, and have them touch the food and then feed the puppet. You can do the same with smaller food flashcards on the floor. Don’t forget to include English practice:
“How are you?”
“I’m hungry! Can I have a banana?”
“Here you go!”
4. Props
Students can interact with the puppet using a variety of props. To practise body parts, use a wash cloth and ask students “wash his tummy!” “wash her feet!” After eating, why not use a toothbrush!
And when the puppet is cold, put on a hat, scarf, etc. Don’t forget to include lots of English practice.
Top Tip: If a puppet refuses to do something, students can practice the language more – “open your mouth!” “No!” “OPEN YOUR MOUTH!!”
5. Actions
Students can practise “Can + Actions” with a puppet. I like to give my students the action cards, and get them to take turns asking the puppet. “Can you jump?” “Can you dance?” “Can you fly?” “Can you run?”
I have great fun answering and demonstrating the puppets abilities. I have an old man puppet who is great at dancing, but cannot run, for example.
Say goodbye…
Don’t forget to say goodbye to the puppet with your students, and put them back in their bag or box, to wrap up the activity.